Page 24 - Motoring Summer 2021

SA LAUNCH ALFA ROMEO

Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio

fascinating fact disclosed during the launch presentation of
the new versions of the Giulia and Stelvio was that Henry
F
A ord was quoted as saying the following: “Every time an
Alfa Romeo car passes, I lift my hat.” Well, Henry, may I follow that
tradition and start to “doff my hat every time an Alfa passes me”?
There is something about the Alfa Romeo brand that confounds
logic and sensibility . . . it’s called EMOTION. It’s a kind of magic that
very few brands have and can never be explained. ‘Alfisti’ are simply
fanatics in the true sense of the word.
In a more modern context, Jeremy Clarkson has been quoted
as saying that you cannot call yourself a petrolhead unless you have
owned an Alfa Romeo. It may have been way back in my younger
days, but I too have owned one! with the superb 8-inch infotainment touchscreen system, they also feature
Now, let’s get onto the cars. The new range has been streamlined a 7-inch TFT instrument panel in front of the driver. The small leather
into only two models in the Giulia and two in the Stelvio range. The bound steering wheel has an engine start button mounted in it and there
2l 4-cylinder version in the Giulia carries the revered Veloce tag, is full leather trim, with soft-touch surfaces, throughout the cabin. Small
meaning fast, or speedy. In Stelvio guise, it’s just called Super. details include a little slot for the key next to the gearshift and an inductive
The 2l 4-cylinder turbo now delivers 206kW and 400Nm through charging pad for your phone.
an ultra-smooth 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. Power is to the Alfa Romeo has made the decision to only offer the models as fully
rear wheels in the Giulia and all 4 wheels in the Stelvio. loaded with the only option available to buyers being the choice of paint.
Although not available for us to drive, the 2.9l V6 versions are Although there are some stunning colours on the palette, it’s red or
still included and dubbed QV in Giulia and just Q in the Stelvio. How nothing for me. In case you need reminding of the Italian heritage, there is
about 375kW and 600Nm of brute power to blast away the cobwebs? a small Italian flag just below the gearshift.
We chose to drive the Giulia sedan first and immediately Fully specced, the features include autonomous emergency braking
twirled the DNA switch to Dynamic mode. The instant growl from and stop, active cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot warning and full
the exhaust was accompanied by ultra-fast shifts that engaged with reverse parking assist. A panoramic sunroof is also standard.
a little snap. It’s even more fun when using the long aluminium All models also include a 5-year/100 000km warranty plus
paddles that are fixed to the steering column. maintenance plan.
Personally, I have a liking for sedans, and the low ride, The fact that the brand now has the full backing of the dynamic
exceptional road holding and general demeanour of the Giulia would Stellantis Group in SA and worldwide should create peace of mind for
suit me perfectly. It’s even a pleasure while cruising, so it would be prospective buyers. n
able to handle commuting duty with no problem.
The Stelvio excels as a D-segment SUV. Large, spacious and Pricing is as follows:
versatile, it still offers the same superb performance ability. Giulia Veloce ................................................................................R 989 900
Obviously, the larger body and raised ride height mean that it cannot Giulia QV ......................................................................................R 1 599 900
quite match the sedan for sheer handling ability. Stelvio Super ................................................................................R 1 159 900
The changes in the new models are limited on the exterior to Stelvio Q ......................................................................................R 1 749 900
stunning new alloy wheels - 20 inches on the Stelvio vs 19 inches
on the Giulia. Click here for our full video review: https://www.youtube.com/
The interior is where the changes are clearly apparent. Starting watch?v=Sp8bvGjyIMs

MOTORING | Summer 2021 | 22