Does the new Alfa Romeo have what it takes to win over its rivals?
Exterior – Front
So, let’s start with the front of the Stelvio. Just like the Giulia facelift we get a new set of LED Matrix headlights that have the same 3 pot style graphic in them as the smaller Tonale. We also get new mesh patterns in the vents at the front to, to bring it in line with the Tonale. Overall, the front just like the Giulia facelift looks more aggressive and modern then before and it really helps to bring this car in line with its rivals. If you have not read the review on the Giulia facelift, then I would recommend looking at that first, so you know why I am comparing the Stelvio to it.
Exterior – Side
Moving round to the side and the changes are kept to a minimum. We get some new wheel options and some new colours but apart from that everything else is kept the same as before.
Exterior – Rear
Moving round to the back and again changes are kept to a minimum. Everything is the same as before apart from some new taillights again to keep this car more modern. Considering the Stelvio is coming up to 7 years this year it does not look it and that is a good thing as it has to compete with its next generation rivals. Let’s have a look at the engine options.
Car and engine specs and price
So, for the engine options it is a bit better than the Giulia. We not only have a petrol option, but we also have a diesel version. Let’s start with the petrol one. This is a 2-litre turbo petrol that creates 278 bhp. This is mated to an 8-speed automatic and this powers all 4 wheels to make all wheel drive. This can do 0-62 in 5.7 seconds, and it has a top speed of 143 mph. the diesel version is a 2.2 litre turbo unit that creates 208 bhp. This is mated to the same 8 speed automatic gearbox and again makes all wheel drive. This can do 0-62 in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 134 mph. prices of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio have not been announced yet so I will update it in the comments and let you know.
Interior – Design
Now the inside of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio was never a bad car. During its first facelift we got a better infotainment system that added touchscreen, and this made the car easier to use. We also had a new steering wheel and gear shifter during that facelift too. With this facelift we now get a digital instrument cluster. This is taken straight from the Tonale, and it has 3 display modes. Also, when you enter and exit the car it shows the headlights and taillights on it which I think is a nice touch. The infotainment system is the same as before but there was nothing wrong with it. You also can still control it with a control knob which I like. The seats are also the same and they are very supportive and comfy. This is great for when you want to do a bit of spirited driving in the Alfa Romeo as this is a proper driver’s car. Let’s check the rear seats out.
Practicality
So, getting in the back of the Stelvio and we get a good amount of knee room and headroom. People over 6 foot will be fine in the back. We also get some air vents and an arm rest. We also get some nice, trimmed panels in the back too. Let’s check the boot out.
Boot Size
So, opening the boot and you are welcomed with 525 litres with the seats up. Whilst this is not as big as its competitors it is big enough for most people.
Summary
So, in summary then, is the Alfa Romeo Stelvio as good as its rivals. Well personally I think it can. Yes, the main body is looking older than its rivals, but it has enough equipment to keep it in line with them and this recent facelift has changed the looks to look more modern. Is it worth going for this or the Tonale. Well personally the Tonale is the better looking and it feels even more modern inside but if you need the practicality and boot space then this is still a perfect car for you.
Exterior 5/5
Interior 5/5
Practicality 4/5
Total 14/15
Model | Alfa Romeo Stelvio Competizione |
Price | TBC |
Engine | 2.0 Litre 4 Cylinder Turbo, 278 bhp, 0-62 = 5.7 Sec |
Transmission | 8 Speed Automatic AWD (AllWheel Drive) |
On Sale | Spring 2023 |
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