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Trying to review an Alfa Romeo vehicle is difficult as I found out with the Giulia Quadrifoglio. There were parts of model that I found to be quite amazing and worthy of putting it on my year-end favorites list. But other traits and details left a very sour taste in my mouth. I ended my review with this line, “To some, that is the charm of an Alfa Romeo. Within all of those flaws is a brilliant automobile. For others, it is something that should be avoided at all costs.” Now I find myself in the same difficult position with another Alfa Romeo, the Stelvio. My fingers were crossed that the Stelvio would avoid some of the pitfalls from the Giulia. If you were to ask me to describe the Stelvio’s design, I would say it is a tall riding Giulia hatchback. The shared DNA is made quite clear in the front as there is a three-leaf design for the grille, narrow headlights set at a slight angle, and there are deep cuts in the hood. More of the Giulia can be seen in the side profile with flowing curves and noticeable fender bulges. One design trait that sets the Stelvio apart from other luxury crossovers is the sharply raked d-pillar that gives it a sporty edge. The Stelvio’s interior mirrors the Giulia with the same modern design and mixture of high-quality and very cheap materials. I also had an odd build quality issue where the button for the driver’s heated seat would get stuck. I would have to press the button a few times to dislodge it. This is a bit worrying for a brand with a very questionable reliability history. A set of leather sport seats that are part of an optional sport package came equipped. With increased side bolstering, the seats do an excellent job of holding you in during an enthusiastic drive. It is a shame that the seats aren’t comfortable for long trips. After an hour or so, I found that my thighs were becoming sore. A little bit more seat padding would do some wonders. In the back, there is adequate head and legroom for an average sized adult. Taller passengers will notice headroom is very much at a premium due to the sloping roofline. Cargo space slightly trails competitors with 18.5 cubic feet of space with the seats up and 56.5 when folded. For infotainment, the base Stelvio comes with a 6.5-inch screen. The Ti makes do with a larger 8.8-inch screen. Both systems use a controller knob on the center console and voice commands to move around the system. If you read our Giulia Quadrifoglio review, then you know I had a number of problems with the infotainment system: Odd design choices, issues with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and a number of crashes to name a few. I was hoping the Stelvio’s system would have ironed some of the issues. But sadly, the Stelvio experienced the same issues as the Giulia. Alfa Romeo should have just used the UConnect infotainment system like Maserati does. Just put a different coat of paint and call something different. Under the hood of the Stelvio lies a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. There is also the high-performance Quadrifoglio with a 505 horsepower, twin-turbo V6 engine. Some turbo lag makes an appearance when the vehicle begins to accelerate. But once the turbocharger spools up, the Stelvio moves at a surprising rate. This comes down to a broad and flat torque curve. The eight-speed automatic mirrors what I found in the Giulia Quadrifoglio I drove earlier in the year - stumbles with gear changes at lower speeds, but becomes smoother as speed increases. Handling is where the Stelvio really pulls ahead of the competition. On a winding road, the crossover exhibits excellent control of body motions. Steering provides decent weight and feel needed for an enthusiastic drive. I had to remind myself this isn’t a Giulia sedan, this is a compact crossover. But there is one item that will make you think twice about driving the Stelvio with gusto and that is brakes. The pedal feel was very inconsistent - lightly press on the pedal and the vehicle didn’t feel like it was slowing down, press a little bit further and it felt like the vehicle was going into a panic stop. The issue deals with the brake-by-wire system which uses sensors to measure the amount of force and speed applied to the pedal. This information is then transmitted to a controller which applies the appropriate amount of braking force. This is a problem a few other reviews have noted and one Alfa Romeo needs to address. The ride is compliant with a fair number of bumps making their way inside. If you’re looking for a somewhat smoother ride, dropping to the smaller 18-inch wheels is recommended. Road and wind noise are kept to average levels for the class. But engine noise is very noticeable inside, sounding like an old diesel truck. Be prepared to keep the volume for the audio system up. Like the Giulia Quadrifoglio, the Stelvio has me torn. The crossover has a lot going for it such as the sharp exterior, a very punchy turbo-four, and impressive handling. But then I look at the list of issues such as the problematic infotainment system, confused transmission, and a braking system that is very inconsistent. This isn’t including the dark cloud of Alfa Romeo’s reliability. During my week, I had a ‘Service Alarm’ light that would pop up when I started the vehicle. I wasn’t sure what that meant until I accidentally pressed the panic button and the alarm went off for five minutes. I was about ready to break out the wrenches and remove the battery to shut up the alarm, but then it stopped. It needs to be noted that FCA has issued four recalls on the Stelvio at the time of this writing. If you really have your heart set on a Stelvio, be aware of what you’re getting yourself into. There are moments of brilliance mixed in with the perils. Everyone else should look at the competition. Disclaimer: Alfa Romeo Provided the Stelvio, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Alfa Romeo Model: Stelvio Trim: Ti Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L MultiAir2 SOHC Four-Cylinder Driveline: Eight-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 280 @ 5,200 Torque @ RPM: 306 @ 2,000 - 4,800 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 22/28/24 Curb Weight: 4,044 lbs Location of Manufacture: Cassino, Italy Base Price: $43,995 As Tested Price: $54,090 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Ti Sport Package 22S - $2,500 Driver Assist Dynamic Plus Package - $1,500 Dual-Pane Sunroof - $1,350 8.8-inch AM/FM Bluetooth Radio with 3D Navigation - $950.00 Harman Kardon Premium Audio - $900.00 Driver Assistance Static Package - $650.00 Vesuvio Grey Metallic - $600.00 Compact Spare Tire - $450.00 Convenience Package - $200.00 View full article

Alfa Romeo will soon be joining the crossover craze with the launch of the Stelvio this summer. It will begin at $42,990 (includes a $995 destination charge) for the base model and $44,990 for the Ti. What do you get for the money? The Stelvio comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels, leather, rear parking sensors, backup camera, power liftgate, and push-button start. Opt for the Ti to get 19-inch wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel; larger infotainment display, and wood trim. An optional Sport package brings larger wheels (19-inch for the Stelvio, 20- for Ti), retuned suspension, and other sporty touches. Ti models can also get a Lusso package that brings higher-quality leather, power seats, and a different design for the 19-inch wheels. Both models feature the same 2.0L turbo-four offering up 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic. 0-60 mph takes only 5.4 seconds. One model that will not be available at launch is the fire-breathing Stelvio Quadrifoglio with its 505 horsepower twin-turbo V6. Pricing and a release timeframe will be announced at a later date. Source: Alfa Romeo Press Release is on Page 2 Alfa Romeo Announces Pricing for All-New Stelvio and Stelvio Ti Premium Mid-size SUV Named Cars.com’s First-ever “Best in Show” Starts at $41,995 MSRP An SUV for the S-curves, Stelvio’s iconic Alfa Romeo design and genuine Italian craftsmanship combine to create a premium mid-size SUV that truly stands apart All Stelvio models feature a near perfect 50/50 weight distribution, class-leading power and performance and an eight-speed automatic transmission with available steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters with gear shifts in less than 100 milliseconds Stelvio comes very well-equipped with many standard premium features, including a direct-injection 280-hp turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L engine delivering 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.4 seconds, DNA drive mode selector, genuine leather interior, remote start with passive entry, bi-xenon headlamps, dual exhaust, class-exclusive carbon-fiber driveshaft, flat-bottom Formula One-inspired steering wheel, 7-inch TFT and much more Stelvio Ti (Turismo Internazionale) adds 19-inch wheels, genuine wood interior accents, an 8.8-inch widescreen entertainment and information display, heated seats, heated steering wheel and much more The innovative Q4 all-wheel-drive (AWD) system – standard on all Stelvio models, including the Quadrifoglio – provides additional driving confidence and superior control Stelvio also offers innovative safety and security features and leverages advanced driver-assist features, including available Full-speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus Stelvio and Stelvio Ti go on sale later this summer with an MSRP of $41,995 and $43,995, respectively Stelvio Quadrifoglio pricing and timing will be announced later this year May 10, 2017 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Alfa Romeo today announced pricing for the highly anticipated 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Stelvio Ti. The Stelvio lineup brings world-class performance, state-of-the-art technologies, seductive Italian style and an exhilarating driving experience to the premium mid-size SUV segment. “The all-new Stelvio further highlights and expands Alfa Romeo’s return to North America with a premium mid-size SUV that truly stands apart in the segment,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo. “As an SUV that could only be born in Italy, the entire Stelvio lineup delivers class-leading power, exceptional driving dynamics, standard all-wheel drive, advanced technologies, gorgeous Italian design and a race-inspired driving experience, available starting from $41,995 MSRP.” Three exhilarating, capable Stelvio models showcase Alfa Romeo’s captivating mix of Italian performance, style and technology Crafted by Alfa Romeo artisans at the Cassino plant in Italy, the all-new 2018 Stelvio lineup is a testament to Alfa Romeo’s perfect balance of engineering and emotion, creating a premium mid-size SUV for driving enthusiasts that stands out in one of the largest and fastest growing segments in the United States. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is $41,995 (excluding $995 destination) Alfa Romeo Stelvio features an all-aluminum, 2.0-liter, direct-injection turbocharged engine that generates a class-leading, standard 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, Stelvio launches from 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 144 mph The all-new, well-equipped Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes standard with Alfa DNA drive mode selector, class-exclusive carbon fiber driveshaft, dual exhaust with bright tips, 18-inch aluminum wheels (19- and 20-inch wheels available), leather seating, bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps, backup camera with rear park sensors, remote start, passive entry with Keyless Go, power liftgate, Formula One-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated push button start Available Sport Package ($1,800 MSRP) adds 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters, sport steering wheel, genuine aluminum accents, gloss-black window trim surround, black roof rails, aluminum sport pedals and footrest, colored brake calipers and much more Available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offer easy access to vital technologies 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti model is $43,995 (excluding $995 destination) In addition to the expansive list of standard features in the all-new Stelvio, Stelvio Ti adds even more premium content and convenience offerings, including standard 19-inch wheels, genuine wood interior accents, an 8.8-inch widescreen entertainment and information display, SiriusXM, front park sensors, heated steering wheel, heated front seats and much more Available Ti Sport and Ti Lusso packages (priced at $2,500 MSRP each) provide drivers with two unique offerings that further accentuate the bold characteristics of Stelvio Ti Ti Sport adds 20-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, 12-way power high-performance sport leather seats including 4-way lumbar and power bolsters with thigh extenders, steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters, sport steering wheel, gloss-black window trim surround, black roof rails, aluminum sport pedals and footrest, colored brake calipers and much more Ti Lusso (late availability) includes 19-inch wheels, Luxury Pieno Fiore Italian leather seats with Cannelloni inserts, 12-way power front seats including 4-way lumbar, leather-wrapped dash and upper door trim with accent stitching, genuine wood trim in dark gray oak or Lusso-exclusive light walnut, luxury steering wheel, aluminum pedals footrest and much more All three Stelvio models offer: The intelligent Q4 all-wheel-drive system – standard on all Stelvio models, including Quadrifoglio – delivers even more all-season traction and performance capability, thanks to the system’s ability to transfer up to 60 percent of the engine’s torque to the front axle Near perfect 50/50 weight distribution, segment-leading torsional rigidity and the most direct steering ratio in the segment, thanks to Stelvio’s Alfa Romeo-exclusive Giorgio architecture Unique Italian style and craftsmanship to the premium mid-size SUV segment More than 105 years of brand history, carving its legend on road courses around the globe Innovative Alfa DNA Drive Mode Selector modifies the dynamic behavior of the Stelvio, according to the driver’s selection: Dynamic: Delivers sharper brake and steering feel with more aggressive engine, transmission and throttle tip-in calibrations Natural: Comfort setting for balanced daily driving Advanced Efficiency: Eco-friendly mode to achieve the lowest fuel consumption Peace of mind: safety and security The all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers innovative safety and security features and leverages advanced driver-assist features, including: Full-speed Forward Collision Warning – Plus: Provides autonomous braking and, under certain circumstances, slows or brings the vehicle to a full stop when frontal collision appears imminent Adaptive Cruise Control – Plus with Full Stop: Helps maintain distance from the vehicle ahead and, under certain traffic conditions, the system can bring the Stelvio to a full stop without driver intervention Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver of inadvertent lane departure To help rear visibility both on the road and in parking situations, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and front- and rear-park assist sensors are available. In addition, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio features advanced multistage driver and front-passenger air bags; driver and front passenger seat-mounted side air bags; front and rear side curtain air bags; and driver and front passenger inflatable knee air bags. View full article

"It has been long time coming" could be Alfa Romeo's slogan for the U.S. considering how long it has taken the brand to make a return here. But it is also an apt description for their first SUV, the 2018 Stelvio which debuted today at the LA Auto Show. Design-wise, the Stelvio is a taller, more practical version of the Giulia sedan. From the narrow headlights and triangular grille up front, to the sculpted lines along the side, Alfa is making sure the DNA of the Giulia is extended to other models. The interior is the same as Giulia with a similar design for the dash, a 6.5-inch touchscreen (an 8.8-inch screen comes standard on higher trims), and leather seats. Let's talk powertrains. The Stelvio and Stelvio Ti (Turismo Internazionale) will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio features the twin-turbo 2.9L V6 with 505 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Alfa says the Stelvio Quadrifoglio will hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds - a tenth slower than the Giulia Quadrifoglio. No matter the engine, an eight-speed automatic and Alfa's Q4 all-wheel drive system will come standard. Alfa's DNA drive mode system will feature three different drive modes to alter settings for the engine, transmission, and steering. The Quadrifoglio will get four different modes. Like the Giulia, the Stelvio uses the Giorgio platform that promises a near 50/50 weight distribution front and rear. Many body panels, suspension components, and chassis are made out of aluminum in an effort to save weight.The Quadrifoglio gets an an adaptive suspension, which is optional on the other trims. Alfa Romeo hasn't announced a release date or pricing for the Stelvio. Considering their track record of missing dates, this might be a wise decision. Source: Alfa Romeo Press Release is on Page 2 Born From the World’s Greatest Driving Road – Stelvio Pass – the All-new 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Sets a New Benchmark in Performance, Style and Technology in an SUV That Could Only Be Italian The SUV for the S-Curves: Built in Italy, the Top-of-the-line Stelvio Quadrifoglio Delivers a Class-leading 505 Horsepower and 0-60 in Just 3.9 Seconds Building on the excitement of the award-winning 4C and the all-new Giulia premium mid-size sedan, Alfa Romeo – the heart and soul of the automotive industry – introduces the all-new Stelvio premium mid-size SUV The all-new Stelvio is the second of a new lineup of vehicles built off a world-class architecture that embodies the brand’s La meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion) spirit Stelvio and Stelvio Ti models feature an all-new, all-aluminum, 2.0-liter, direct-injection turbo engine delivering a class-leading, standard 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing it to achieve a top speed of 144 mph Stelvio Quadrifoglio – the “halo” model in the lineup – continues to highlight Alfa Romeo’s performance and motorsport expertise with best-in-class 505 horsepower, powering it from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 177 mph State-of-the-art technologies, including Alfa DNA Pro selector, torque vectoring differential, Chassis Domain Control (CDC), and aluminum column-mounted paddle shifters with 100 millisecond shifts, maximize the all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s driving pedigree The innovative Q4 all-wheel-drive (AWD) system – standard on all Stelvio models, including the Quadrifoglio, provides additional driving confidence and superior control Iconic Alfa Romeo design and genuine Italian craftsmanship combine to create a premium mid-size SUV that truly stands apart Stelvio offers innovative safety and security features and leverages advanced driver-assist features, including Full-speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus Crafted by Alfa Romeo artisans at the Cassino plant in Frosinone, Italy November 16, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - As the second of a new generation of vehicles built on an all-new platform, the 2018 Stelvio epitomizes Alfa Romeo’s La meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion) spirit, delivering race-inspired performance, real-world driving confidence, state-of-the-art technologies, seductive Italian style and an exhilarating driving experience to the premium mid-size SUV segment. “The all-new Stelvio, named after one of the greatest driving roads in the world – the Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps – sets a new benchmark for the segment,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo. “Stelvio is uniquely engineered to challenge two-door sports cars on the track, without sacrificing any of the characteristics you would expect from a premium SUV, resulting in the perfect mix of high performance, capability and Italian design.” Infused with Italian passion, craftsmanship and innovation, the all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio will conquer the winding road for which it is named. Three exhilarating, capable Stelvio models showcase Alfa Romeo’s captivating mix of Italian performance, style and technology Crafted by Alfa Romeo artisans at the Cassino plant in Italy, the all-new 2018 Stelvio lineup is a testament to Alfa Romeo’s perfect balance of engineering and emotion, creating a premium mid-size SUV for driving enthusiasts that stands out in one of the largest and fastest growing segments in the U.S. Stelvio and Stelvio Ti The true manifestation of Italian performance, craftsmanship and design, the all-new 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Stelvio Ti models provide a wide-ranging list of standard features, including an all-aluminum, 2.0-liter, direct-injection turbo engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering a class-leading, standard 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque, class-exclusive carbon fiber driveshaft, dual exhaust with bright tips, 18-inch aluminum wheels (available 19- and 20-inch wheels), leather seating, backup camera with rear park sensors, power liftgate, Formula One-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated push button start and much more. In addition to the expansive list of standard features in the all-new Stelvio, Stelvio Ti adds even more luxury and convenience offerings, including standard 19-inch wheels, genuine wood interior accents and an 8.8-inch widescreen infotainment display. Available Sport and Lusso packages provide drivers with two unique offerings that further accentuate the bold characteristics of Stelvio Ti. Stelvio Quadrifoglio With the most powerful Alfa Romeo production engine ever, Stelvio Quadrifoglio highlights Alfa Romeo’s performance and motorsport pedigree as the “halo” model in the lineup. The heart and soul of this ultra-high performance SUV is an all-aluminum, direct-injection 2.9-liter 24-valve bi-turbo intercooled V-6 engine, delivering a best-in-class 505 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque, and a standard Q4 all-wheel-drive system. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio includes exclusive high-performance and functional exterior design elements, plus unique performance suspension, brakes and wheels. Inside, high performance leather and Alcantara front seats, featuring 12-way power and adjustable thigh support, provide the optimal control center. Additional features include a Quadrifoglio-exclusive leather-wrapped steering wheel with accent stitching and performance contours, leather-wrapped instrument panel with accent stitching and carbon fiber interior trim. Advanced technology features unique to the Stelvio Quadrifoglio include a four-mode Alfa DNA Pro selector with Race mode, torque vectoring differential, Quadrifoglio-tuned adaptive suspension, Quadrifoglio instrument cluster with 200 miles per hour (mph) speedometer and cylinder deactivation system. Ultra-high performance options for Stelvio Quadrifoglio include: Ultra-lightweight carbon fiber shell Sparco racing seats, providing maximum lateral support during extreme cornering thanks to more aggressive bolstering, and designed to be the lightest in the segment, while providing comfort for long road trips Ultra-high-performance Brembo carbon-ceramic material (CCM) brake system Driver-centric capability and performance The Stelvio’s intuitive interior is fully committed to the driver’s every need, offering easy access to vital and next-level technologies. A Formula One-inspired steering wheel features a thick-rim profile that transmits the chassis’ direct-steering feel and neatly groups the vehicle controls and the engine start button. Behind the steering wheel, the Stelvio features available all-aluminum column-mounted paddle shifters and a standard full-color 7-inch thin film transistor (TFT) cluster display straddled by two large white-on-black face analog gauges. Conveniently located in the center console are two simple rotary dials. The first controls Alfa’s DNA Drive Mode system with three unique driver selectable modes (Dynamic, Natural, Advanced Efficiency), which can be used to fine tune the driving experience by adjusting throttle response, boost pressure and suspension settings in Stelvio and Stelvio Ti. Stelvio Quadrifoglio adds a fourth mode – Race – with its exclusive DNA Pro Drive Mode system. The secondary rotary dial controls the high-resolution 6.5-inch, or 8.8-inch, wide-screen infotainment system with real-time vehicle performance pages and telemetry, plus 3-D graphic navigation that recognizes handwritten gestures on the top of the rotary pad (late availability), allowing the driver to easily interact with the 3-D Navigation system. With easy access to vital technologies in mind, all Stelvio models will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. State-of-the-art engines are the beating hearts of each and every Alfa Romeo Every Stelvio, Stelvio Ti and Stelvio Quadrifoglio is powered by best-in-class all-aluminum engines that embody the brand’s passion for next-level technology and state-of-the-art performance. Best-in-class 280 horsepower with all-aluminum Alfa Romeo turbocharged four-cylinder engine Featured in the all-new 2018 Stelvio and Stelvio Ti models, an all-aluminum 2.0-liter direct-injection, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled engine, designed specifically for Alfa Romeo, delivers a best-in-class 280 horsepower, along with world-class levels of performance, efficiency and refinement. To deliver its best-in-class 280-horsepower output and flat torque curve with 306 lb.-ft. of torque available between 2,250 – 4,500 rpm, the state-of-the-art engine features exceptional turbo responsiveness thanks to a “2-in-1” turbocharger design, with the charging system driven through two pipes, which gathers exhaust gas from pairs of cylinders in an alternating sequence. Performance and fuel economy of these engines are fostered by the MultiAir electro-hydraulic variable-valve actuation technology, a direct-injection system with 2,900 PSI injection pressure, a water-cooled cylinder head integrated manifold and a water-cooled charge air cooler. Best-in-class 505-horsepower all-aluminum 2.9-liter bi-turbo V-6 engine Arriving to the premium mid-size SUV segment is the most powerful Alfa Romeo production engine ever, with an all-aluminum 2.9-liter direct-injection bi-turbo V-6 serving as the Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s “heart and soul.” Designed to optimize the all-new lightweight Alfa Romeo architecture, the all-aluminum 2.9-liter V-6 bi-turbo engine features a compact 90-degree layout and was holistically designed for a low center of gravity within the chassis. To deliver a best-in-class 505 horsepower and a flat torque curve with 443 lb.-ft. of peak torque available between 2,500 – 5,500 rpm, the state-of-the-art engine features a bi-turbo design. In addition, the engine’s turbochargers are integrated into the exhaust manifold and feature a low-inertia, single-scroll turbo design with variable-boost management for ultra-responsive throttle response. A direct-injection system maximizes fuel combustion for improved engine output and efficiency. For improved fuel efficiency, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio features a Cylinder Efficient Management (CEM) deactivation system, which enables the engine to run on three of its six cylinders. Crafting control: Q4 all-wheel drive (AWD) The intelligent Q4 all-wheel-drive system – standard on all Stelvio models, including Quadrifoglio – delivers even more all-season traction and performance capability, thanks to the system’s ability to transfer up to 60 percent of the engine’s torque to the front axle. The innovative Q4 AWD system is linked to the Stelvio’s Chassis Domain Controller (CDC) and driver-adjustable Alfa DNA or DNA Pro (Quadrifoglio exclusive) drive mode system – enabling the driveline’s next-generation integrated actuator to adapt to changing ground conditions or driver need in milliseconds, and instantly optimize the required torque to each wheel. Italian ingenuity with broad use of lightweight materials Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s architecture extensively integrates lightweight, state-of-the-art materials that enable and deliver near perfect 50/50 weight distribution, segment-leading torsional rigidity and the most direct steering available. Alfa Romeo engineers designed a lightweight rear-wheel-drive platform with a low center of gravity – all to deliver the high-performance and precision expected from an Alfa Romeo. Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s aluminum front and rear vehicle frames, front shock towers, brakes, suspension components, doors and fenders also help shed weight compared to conventional steel. For example, the rear cross member features an extensive use of lightweight materials, including aluminum and composite. An Alfa Romeo exclusive double wishbone front suspension with semi-virtual steering axis guarantees rapid and accurate steering feel. With the most direct steering ratio in the segment, Alfa Romeo Stelvio can tackle high lateral accelerations as a result of the always perfect footprint. At the rear, a patented Alfa-link rear axle design with vertical rod ensures top performance, driving pleasure and passenger ride comfort. State-of-the-art technologies add to a premium SUV that only Italy could create Competing at a world-class level requires the highest attention to detail, including the use of next-level technologies that continually please and impress the center of Stelvio’s universe: the driver. Q2 Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential This new feature – included within the Performance Package – is a rear mechanical limited-slip differential that optimizes rear-wheel traction. The Q2 differential balances the machine torque, which works on the SUV’s rear axle. This system provides the proper level of torque to one of the two rear wheels based on traction conditions. Chassis Domain Control (CDC) The “brain” of Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s benchmark-level dynamics can be attributed to its innovative Chassis Domain Control (CDC) system. The CDC system coordinates all of the vehicle’s available active systems (stability control, torque vectoring differential and Alfa Active suspension system), using predictive-type dynamic models to deliver balanced, safe and natural driving, thus optimizing performance and drivability. Integrated braking system (IBS) The Alfa Romeo Stelvio features a segment-first integrated braking system, replacing a traditional system of electronic stability control (ESC) and brake booster for even more instantaneous braking responsiveness. The innovative electromechanical system improves braking performance through a faster increase in pressure and makes it possible to vary brake feel jointly with the Alfa DNA Pro system. As a result, this lightweight technological solution delivers new levels of brake response and stopping distance. Alfa DNA and Alfa DNA Pro drive mode selectors Innovative Alfa DNA drive mode system and Alfa DNA Pro (Quadrifoglio exclusive) drive mode selectors modify the dynamic behavior of the vehicle, according to the driver’s selection: Dynamic: delivers sharper brake and steering feel with more aggressive engine, transmission and throttle tip-in calibrations Natural: comfort setting for balanced daily driving Advanced Efficiency: eco-friendly mode to achieve the lowest fuel consumption Race: exclusive to Alfa DNA Pro, this mode activates the over-boost function, opens up the two-mode exhaust system, turns ESC off and delivers sharper brake and steering feel with more aggressive engine, transmission and throttle tip-in calibrations Thanks to the interaction with the Chassis Domain Control, Alfa DNA Pro instantaneously adapts car behavior to the selected driving mode. Torque vectoring Torque vectoring makes it possible for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio to achieve higher performance during lateral acceleration. The rear differential optimizes torque delivery to each wheel separately for improved power delivery, traction and control on all types of road surfaces, without cutting power like traditional systems. Alfa Active suspension system Available on Stelvio Ti and standard on the Stelvio Quadrifoglio, this innovative four-channel chassis damping system instantly adapts to driving conditions and can be adjusted by the driver via the Alfa DNA selector. This technology allows for a setting of softer shock absorbers for a more comfortable drive, or a more rigid setting for more accuracy in sports driving. Peace of mind: safety and security The all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers innovative safety and security features and leverages advanced driver-assist features. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers safety and security features that include: Full-speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus: provides autonomous braking and, under certain circumstances, slows or brings the vehicle to a full stop when frontal collision appears imminent Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus with Full Stop: helps maintain distance from the vehicle ahead and, under certain traffic conditions, the system can bring the Stelvio to a full stop without driver intervention Lane Departure Warning: alerts the driver of inadvertent lane departure To help rear visibility both on the road and in parking situations, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and front- and rear-park assist sensors are available. In addition, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio features advanced multistage driver and front-passenger air bags, driver and front-passenger seat-mounted side air bags, front and rear side curtain air bags, and driver and front-passenger inflatable knee air bags. Italian style, inside and out In true Italian fashion, the all-new Stelvio allows owners to customize their performance SUV with up to 13 exterior colors; seven wheel choices, ranging from 18 inches to 21 inches; and an almost endless selection of interior color and trim choices. For sophisticated music lovers, the refined Harman Kardon Premium Audio System is offered on the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, which delivers detail-rich audio output. The heart of the Sound Theatre system is a 900-watt 12-channel class D amplifier, which distributes clear sound through a system of 14 speakers for superior audio quality. Harman Kardon’s Logic 7 sound technology is used to secure a surround effect from different high-resolution sources and harmoniously uniform stereo playback. With this sound system, occupants can experience the premium quality for which Harman Kardon is renowned. With the all-new 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, where other SUVs stop at utility, Alfa Romeo took on the challenge to create the perfect mix of high performance, capability and design. View full article

You have to wonder who was asleep or not paying any attention at Alfa Romeo during the editing of a video. Because a video that was published and subsequently made private possibly revealed the upcoming Stelvio crossover. Motor Trend reports that in a video posted on Fiat Chrysler Automobile's YouTube page, there is a crossover on Fiat's Cassino assembly plant in Italy that appears to be going through an inspection. We can pick out a front end that is similar to the Giulia sedan and a coupe-like roofline. Comparing this shot with recent spy shots of the Stelvio and we can say with some confidence, this is the upcoming Stelvio. It should be noted that Cassino is home to the Giulia, a vehicle that will be sharing its platform with the Stelvio. Alfa Romeo is planning to reveal the Stelvio later this year at the LA Auto Show. Source: Motor Trend View full article

Thanks to a spy photographer, we got our first look at the upcoming Alfa Romeo Stelvio crossover. The front end gives away this camouflaged vehicle is an Alfa as it has a rounded triangle grille. The headlights are slightly covered up, but we think they could be the same slim units as found in the Giulia. The box on the rear end looks to be trying the hide the shape of the rear tailgate. Under the skin, the Stelvio is expected to use a modified version of the Giulia's platform. Power will come from a range of gas and diesel engines. The Stelvio is expected to debut sometime later this year. Source: Motor Authority View full article

Alfa Romeo's newest product plan has the Gilula arriving sometime this year, followed by a midsize crossover that is expected to go into production late this year. We have some new information on the crossover. Auto Express reports the new crossover will be named Stelvio. This information comes from FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne at a recent event. Stelvio comes from the Stelvio Pass – a curvy stretch of road in Italy. The Stelvio will use a modified version of the Giulia's platform and have the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drivetrains. It is expected that a range of four and six-cylinder gas and diesel engines will be on offer. Auto Express says there will also be a Quadrifoglio Verde version boasting the 2.9L twin-turbo V6 found in the Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde. Marchionne also mentioned that the Giulia would be heading into production next month, refuting a report from earlier in the month saying the model had been pushed back once again due to failing internal crash tests. However, we'll believe Marchionne when the Giulia begins rolling off the production line, whenever that may be. Source: Auto Express View full article