Whenever a new concept car is released, particularly if it looks like it’s one of a kind, there’s always plenty of excitement from people in the motoring industry and petrolheads alike. This is certainly true of the new Renault Alpine, a mid-engined 400bhp sports car which has been unleashed on the Monaco Grand Prix circuit to demonstrate its prowess. Paying homage to Alpine, the former sports car manufacturer which was amalgamated into Renault in the 1970s, this car has set a lot of tongues wagging, wondering how much car insurance would cost if they were to buy one.

Before the brand was discontinued by Renault, Alpine’s motoring heritage was long and impressive. The A110, made during the 1960s-1970s, famously won the first ever World Rally Championship in 1973, while, not long after being taken over by Renault, they won the Le Mans race in 1978. Having been dropped in the 1990’s, the new Renault Alpine will be made available for sale, ideal for racing around a track.

Renault’s CEO, Carlos Tavares, claimed that this was their last chance to build an iconic sports car, while another member of the French manufacturer’s board said “If we don’t do it this time, we never will.”

The Alpine’s 400bhp V6 engine means that, when it finally hits showrooms, it will make a great thrill-a-minute ride for people who’ve always wanted to drive a great-looking sports car. As for the bodywork, its emphatic rear spoiler and metallic blue paintwork complete with orange trim makes it look the part.