Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce - Can It Stand Out In A Sea of SUVs?

This week, courtesy of Alfa Romeo UK I am finally getting some proper seat time in the Stelvio SUV. I've previously driven this car, but never for a review - and I was keen to see how it compares with the fabulous Giulia saloon.
#AlfaRomeo #Stelvio
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[@justsomeguy1141]

I drove a hired Stelvio from Austria to Croatia in the summer and it was fantastic! Ok the infotainment is a little bit dated but it looks amazing and handles really well

[@adriano8809]

Exactly, I had a new Subaru and the infotainment was big and nice aesthetically but a total junk, it would black out if you turned off and on the engine after 5 minutes and stop working for 20 minutes and it would lag like crazy. Glad to say that Alfa did it better than Japanese cars makers speaking of actual functionality.

[@FOXHOUND4143]

I have a Stelvio Veloce, 71 plate. I am not sure what the brake problem is? Seems fine to me! I have a Giulia too, no issue with the brakes! It works exactly like a standard hydraulic unit and I can modulate brake feel just as good as any other car. In fact, if you didn't tell anyone, no one would know it's fly-by-wire. This is one of the best cars I have ever owned. Fast, looks mega in black (mine is black with yellow calipers, sunroof, HK surround sound), turns heads, different from the competition, reliable, comfortable, big boot and more. This is a proper weapon.

[@MEG63115]

Stelvio looks fantastic. Really like, I believe the “Nero” package adding the black out trim and exhaust fantastic.

[@eugenebenson3848]

Yeah not sure what he means - I own one and have no issues with the braking

[@HarryJamesBooks]

Beats me on the braking as well, but overall a fair review.

[@miks564]

My '21 Veloce is also black with 'nero edizione' (black lettering), also sunroof and 15 speaker HK, red calipers, darker tail lights and chocolate interior to make a contrast with all the exterior black. Looks awesome drives even better (as we, owners, know!) 😊

[@marshallc.t.2554]

@@miks564i envy your sunroofs

[@ForgetfulFoot]

I have always wanted a Stelvio Veloce in the metallic green. Absolute dream car for me.

[@FOXHOUND4143]

I pray your dream comes true.

[@froggy0162]

Why? It’s an suv, and is therefore dumb as dogshit…

[@JBsC6]

My better half had a bright red alfa stelvio ti sport for a 3 year lease. It was awesome. Utter reliable and a great ownership experience. The shortage of vehicles in the USA made getting another one difficult so i ended up forced to be an audi etron ev which is titally different but surprisngly just as quick. A totally different ownership experience. Alfas rule! Fabulous fun and sexy with 20s and sport seats to boot. My dailys a c8 corvette z51 and her alfa always put a smile on my face. Really fun to drive. The brakes when you own the car are good. You just need about 2 weeks to get accustomed to them and then they feel quite natural.. Buy alfas and keep the brand alive. Love the italian spirit. Its a quality no one else captures except the italians. Fabulous

[@jasperatighe5967]

Same thing with me.... The C8 is my daily and my wife drive's a Stelvio. However, we interchange from time to time but the Stelvio always puts me a smile on my face.

[@markaki7337]

I have a 2018 Alfa Romeo stelvio All I can say is that these are not cars, they are simply magic, I will never drive another , my car is called Eros, and I have never been so in luv

[@sportzntouring]

Thanks for the shout out James! Glad to help. Looking forward to sharing our review on JayEmm & Friends soon!

[@miks564]

I also don't really understand the comment that the Stelvio lacks on the features side. Yes, it doesn't have HUD display, nor a full digital dashboard, no 360 camera and no ventilated seats. This might be a deal breaker for some. But it has (at least mine does) adaptive suspension, adaptive cornering front lights, rear slip diff, adaptive cruise control, level 2 autonomous driving, traffic jam assist, lane keep assist, blind spot assist, emergency braking ...and all the 3 letters security stuff we find on every car these days, all the lights and rain sensors, heated seats, heated steering wheel, double paned windows, the list goes on... And I believe you might have missed some other important features that for many of us, really makes the difference: Engine and suspension are aluminum as many of the body panels to reduce weight. Even the driveshaft is carbon fiber on all Stelvio and Giulias for the same reason. The gearbox is the small compact ZF8hp gearbox (found on many others with 'tronic' names). The effort with lowering the weight combined with the engine mounted behind the front axle (courtesy of the mentioned Giorgio platform) helps this car achieve 50% weight distribution per axle. Finally the Ackerman steering and suspension setup helps this car to be so dynamically competent that it drives better than most cars (non SUVs included). And this is what makes the Stelvio stand out from its competitors.

[@463Richard]

I have the Stelvio Veloce from 2020. They dropped some of the spec from the trim level when they brought in the Veloce TI (now Estreme). My car has leather wrapped dash and mocha colour leather and mocha stitching, makes such a difference to the interior. I've also got the coloured calipers that are a £450 option that you didn't mention on the spec sheet. For me this car is about handling. It's one if not the best SUV for handling and I can therefore have some hot hatch fun, 5.6 seconds to 60, whilst also having a big family car all in one package. I also paid £42k (£10k off list) for mine 2 years ago start of the first lockdown. I wouldn't pay £55k for this car. If you have the money stretch to the 2.9 V6, it is the full package!

[@Storm.Z.4u]

5.6 is far from impressive.

[@463Richard]

@@Storm.Z.4u it is for a 2.0t SUV. Name another with the same ballpark BHP, engine size and weight that is quicker? Remember, this is the mid powered car, not the QF 2.9 V6. That car is 0-60 in the 3.6 seconds region. 5.6 is plenty fast for me.

[@Storm.Z.4u]

@@463Richard Nice that you're impressed so easily.

[@comeberza]

@@463Richard when someone thinks 5.6 is not fast enough they are either american, rich parents kids or just stupid

[@rlsedition]

@@Storm.Z.4u Oh really? Which base engine SUV does better?

[@miks564]

Funny enough, I have no problem stopping either the Giulia or the Stelvio exactly where I want them. It's not difficult at all. I know the brakes are fly by wire, and it's more the position of the pedal and not so much the pressure applied that determines the braking force, but as one could easily understand, the more pressure applied, the longer the pedal goes, so it's not that different in the end and it's so easy to adapt to them that I don't understand the frustration amongst some reviewers. EDIT: Also important to add, the brakes are Brembo with 4 pistons in the front. The car brakes very well as expected.

[@scorpionking8661]

I have a new 2022 Stelvio sprint and it has been fantastic! Drives like a sports car. Love it🇮🇹🇮🇹!!!!!!

[@clivesheppard]

Very nice review - I enjoyed that! In actual fact the Giorgio platform for hybrids is very much alive and well ... the Maserati Grecale (built at the same plant as the Giulias and Stevios) is, in effect, a Stelvio for 2022 with an all-new infotainment system and Maserati trim levels. My wife has one on order and I can't wait to "borrow" it! :)

[@miks564]

The Grecale is quite bigger, probably the biggest SUV in this small family SUV segment, but it's indeed the same Giorgio platform. Please let us know if it keeps the same dynamic superior handling.

[@chriswaggett163]

Just traded my 2014 X5 for a 2023 Alfa Stelvio Veloce & I am absolutely thrilled. Way better than competitors, X3 & Mecan, forget MB! Half the price of those (in the States) but more than twice the fun. My other car is a Lotus Evora 400 & only the Alfa related to me. Steering, acceleration, & brakes, it really is the SUV to have fun in & drive. Period. If you are a “Petrolhead” get one, they are simply brilliant & rarer than the Germans too. Totally happy (& rarely disagree with you Jay!), as Alfa knocked it out of the park with the Stelvio Veloce.

[@johnneal6954]

Just bought an Estreema.adaptive suspension is great,had a diesel stelvio for 4years before,the Estreema is a different beast altogether,fantastic!!bought mine,as he says,probably going to be one of the last petrol only cars to be made! Makes me smile every time I drive it,❤ until you drive an Alfa Romeo like the stelvio even at normal speed feels fast!I love it❤❤

[@chopper602]

Our Stelvio Veloce replaced a very poor Jaguar E-Pace and it is much more spacious than the Jag. Quicker and a much bigger boot. Did a quick lap of the Nurburgring last month and a v-max run on the autobahn. At the end of the 2,000 mile trip it returned about 32mpg. Only slight disappointment is the 9,000 mile service schedule, that is helped with a very good local independent dealer (Alexanders Teesside) who we can't fault.

[@buckleyjteams]

I have the 2.2d stelvio (wife drives it mostly and we do a lot of trips to Scotland hence a diesel) I love it it’s quicker than a lot of people think embarrassed a few hot hatch’s at the lights mid range is a bit lacking though, I’ve managed to get 55mpg out of it in a 390 mile trip to Scotland it only used a 1/3 of a tank. It’s been very reliable as well

[@TsLeng]

Surely it doesn't have a 120L tank.... At 55mpg, 1/3 tank and 390miles....😂

[@buckleyjteams]

@@TsLeng I brimmed it before setting off. if I remember correctly it used 27.6 litres (to brim) working on 4.5L to a gallon it comes to 63.5 MPG it has a 60L tank so filling neck probably about 5-6L. It’s a digital fuel gage 2bars = 1/4 tank so probably not the most accurate

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Must have been more luke-warm hatches. None of these things are "fast" except the V6 tt models - the diesel apparently manages mid 6's to 100kph which is certainly decent, but in all practicality, not even as fast to 100 as a Golf GTI, which itself isn't a very fast car. I guess if it's wet you'd get them on traction.

[@buckleyjteams]

@@Beer_Dad1975 it’s all in the first 30mph after that it’s no chance I had a mk8 fiesta st before I had the alfa and it was much quicker in the mid range but you had to stir the box just right and get the power down ,if the conditions are good then the hatch will win but here in the uk it’s mostly likely shitty wether

[@buckleyjteams]

@@Beer_Dad1975 fastest I’ve managed is about 6 seconds but had low fuel just me in the car, 4 new tyres and new panel filter (I know the filter does naff unless I have it tuned)

[@jamesterakazis6624]

Drives better than any German competitor bar none ! FORZA ALFA BABY !!! THE KING IS BACK !!!!

[@R-Tap]

Here in Ireland these are rare, the odd time I do see one I always take a good look and nod with approval. Can't wait for Giulia QF review, one of my almost achievable dream cars.

[@pipimontana]

Even the 156 variants are still nice to look at

[@shehuhamdala6724]

@@pipimontana ... Yeah 👍🏿😎

[@corgi_leonberger7233]

I have a Quad Stelvio and its brilliant but your comments on its width were so dramatic! Regarding brakes the previous generation wasn't great but it's a non-issue now in the Quadrifoglio so I'm surprised you find the Veloce that bad.

[@antonkukoba3378]

I'm driving cars for 20 years. I had no issues with e-brakes in my Stelvio. It was the opposite for me. It's very natural, and I couldn't tell that it's brake by wire before the sales-manager told me. So I don't know what people are complaining about. Neither does my wife.

[@andrewdeane1540]

I have the 18 plate Stelvio Milano…probably the best car I have had and miles better than the last SUV I had which was a discovery…

[@vaughnwenger6073]

2019 Stelvio. First time Alfa owner. I understand you’re reviewing for the masses, but once you own one, and drive it every day, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Lots of options, beautifully designed, pure Italian design. It’s quick and the handling is better than anything you’ll find at the price.

[@TJC156]

It’s a heavy 4 wheel drive SUV with near 300bhp and it’s a press car being driven the stones out of it - what sort of fuel economy did you expect? 50mpg? Little dose of reality needed here

[@davidg.8522]

@@TJC156 its not heavy at all for an suv its 1650kg

[@a12com]

​@@davidg.8522even gulia is more then that. Alfa always lies about weight

[@davidg.8522]

@@a12com im sure you know, i own one:))

[@a12com]

@@davidg.8522 have you put it on scales?

[@BrianW1612]

The giulia is about 1650kg with fluids if not more. Not a chance the Stelvio is the same weight.

[@NZGlenn]

I own a 2018 200hp Giulia and agree with your comments James. It is a lovely thing to look at and I have enjoyed owning it but I few things let it down. The Alfa Club are lovely people though, even if I am one of the younger ones in my low fifties 😁

[@bimbettocavallo]

I wish they had a Giulia station wagon

[@bartiz12]

Yeah, or at least lift back or shooting brake.

[@miks564]

I have to add that the Stelvio fits very well that role. Dynamically, it drives really well because it retains the 50% weight distribution from the Giulia. Give it a try.

[@bimbettocavallo]

@@miks564 i agree. I drove it, it's a great car. But I would also like to have a pure SW, which was always a great looking thing as an Alfa

[@JD2ndcity]

As a long time BMW owner I have been delighted with my Stelvio. The VFM for how special it feels in world of BMWs and Kias is unquantifiable. Oh, and I have no issues with using the brakes..

[@juhakuula9134]

As a Stelvio owner (and having owned 7 Alfa Romeo’s) - this is spot on. This is why at the same time I’ve had 9 BMW’s - for those dull, gloomy days.

[@23Piccolina]

You have me beat, I've owned 6 Alfas. All terrific. No mechanical issues ever, guess I was lucky or its a myth that this company makes crap cars.

[@Storm.Z.4u]

@@23Piccolina Alfa are renowned for crap cars it's not a myth.

[@23Piccolina]

@@Storm.Z.4u Too bad you are full of BS. I have owned 6, not one has had an issue. Dating back to 1974! People often do not do proper maintenance on these cars. They are not Honda's I'll admit, but they are not bad automobiles. Stick to your Toyota.

[@sonyamolette5331]

I Love My Alfa!! I had the Stelvio and now I’m riding the Veloce.. No problem and can’t wait to see what they come out with in the next couple of years

[@miks564]

@@Storm.Z.4u It’s not a myth they’re known like that. But luckily they’re only known like that from people that never had them. Those who have or had say the opposite.

[@MrBeerberg]

lovely review as always, but please stop pronouncing the G in quadrofoglio- just like in the words "lasagna' or 'sign' it is silent. cheers

[@nagylevi3827]

Good enough is more than good enough when it comes to Alfa. Good, honest review, as always.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Very nice video. I'll have to try it with the adaptive suspension version just to see the difference. Keep up the good work.

[@BojanBojovic]

This is the thing with Alfa since always, you get the same fast steering, same suspension setup, and the same basic character in every car no matter the price or engine size. With all other manufacturers to get sporty car you need to buy some special version. This is really the main reason a regular human does not buy Alfa, they could not care less about driving dynamics, while Alfa could not care less to give them the rest. But I believe people exaggerate a bit, whenever I drive German cars that are so successful in sales I really don't see the build quality everyone brags about, nor practicality, it is all very, very similar with those cars being just little bit more boring and numb, and looking and feeling little bit more fancy and gimmicky. As for the ZF, it is simply brilliant in Alfa. The same unit in Audi Q7 is simply horrible, so slow, so detached, a real deal breaker.

[@tsvetelin6556]

I also never get why people say the interiors of Alfas are not that good. Actually the interior is one of the reasons I bought an 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. None of the BMW an Mercedes basic models from those years have a better or sportier looking interiors. Good to know Im not the only one.

[@jamesbrett6518]

What mpg did you want? 280bhp petrol, 20" wheels with width to match, nice looking brick... 4 wheel drive

[@iainb9277]

Early cars had the brakes issues, I believe most of it sorted with software updates, now this guys seems to highlight the problem that everyone else has stopped talking about......

[@davidemartorana4708]

Glad you posted this even the Purosangue was revealed so I can decide which one to get

[@howardlake6178]

I think, when Alfa did a refresh of the Guilin and Stelvio, the only thing they did was massively increase the size of the dashboard screen, and instal all those infotainment extra goodies. That I think shows how good they both were at the start. But also how much the dashboard moulding costs, in two versions 😳

[@AntoniusTyas]

Wait what? James got a press car from Alfa UK? That was quite a surprise.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Change of people at Alfa....

[@kevinwall795]

In that case, press them for a loan of a Stelvio Quadrifoglio (please).

[@Wolfson47]

Actually, as the owner of a 2021 Stelvio, I can say that you quickly become used to its braking style. They are fast cars, as well as useful, and trouble free.

[@cactuslietuva]

Trouble free? Stelvio is one of the most unreliable SUV's

[@rlsedition]

@@cactuslietuva Where's your reliability data, cactus?

[@cactuslietuva]

@@rlsedition Alfa Romeo performed well in our 2020 Driver Power survey. It finished ninth overall out of 30 brands surveyed. Owners love the way their cars look and drive, but reliability seems to be a weakness - some 28.6% of Alfa owners reported at least one fault within the first year of ownership.

[@rlsedition]

@@cactuslietuva You must be talking about a Euro survey. My Giulia Veloce hasn't given any problems so far and, yes, I love the way it looks and drives. I can't understand why Alfa doesn't offer a class-leading warranty on Giulia/Stelvio to assuage the perception of unreliability. That kind of thing worked wonders for Hyundai/KIA, even if it was only on the powertrains.

[@cactuslietuva]

@@rlsedition when i was looking for a suv to buy i was thinking of buying using stelvio, but i buy a car for 10 years at least. And Alfa Romeo are beautiful cars, but they have tendency to fall apart.

[@rossmartin4675]

Thanks

[@Battery-Powered]

The suv market is so saturated unfortunately. I think only the super SUV’s tend to stand out

[@GS-zc4sk]

This is offering solves nothing that other brands already have, not to mention reliability. The styling is purely the owners problem.

[@Battery-Powered]

@@GS-zc4sk hence why everyone would opt for genesis or Lexus if they want something more premium looking and reliable

[@Ninakoklahombi]

I absolutely love my Giulia Quad. However your spot on the dealership experience. It was horrible from the purchase to the service. I have yet to find one that is good. So unless it’s warranty work I take it to an aftermarket service company.

[@mrpusten]

I've had a 159 for six years and my family has been driving Fiats for quite some time. Now I'm in need a an actual familycar, but because of the Alfa dealership I'm not even considering a Stelvio. It's as if they think their job would be a lot better if it wasn't for all those pesky costumers that kept bothering them at work.

[@chrisconnar5063]

Had a 550 BMW 2017. Love my 2019 Stelvio Sport.

[@markvillalobos2355]

I have a 2.0 stelvio in Chicago and it is great. It isn’t big enough to put all my 4 kids in it at once but it is big enough to handle my tools and I can fit 9 ft boards through the middle pass through with 2 kids in the back. I have rental properties and do carpentry work for fun so this is important. It is such a blast to drive, it ruins other cars. When you get in the boost, it jumps like a puppy who doesn’t know how to walk on a leash yet. The brakes are annoying, though mostly noticeable at low speed (like when pulling into the garage or parallel parking). I have 67k miles on it and had only one problem with it (leaking radiator) but otherwise, I’ve only had to do regular maintenance. It’s also a blast to throw around in the snow and I’ve never been stuck (Chicago winters are pretty nuts).

[@philyoung5434]

I had a 2018 Giulia QF - brakes were fine. So was the infotainment system in all honesty (it had Apple CarPlay and Android connectivity). I then owned a Giulia Veloce, again, I managed to slow down and stop without issue. I've now got a Stelvio on order and I suspect I the brakes will be absolutely fine too. Apparently the brake-by-wire system was used for lightness, as this and the Giulia are big on weight savings with their aluminium panels and carbon propshafts etc.

[@KENNETH-rh8mz]

Would anyone select a kia sorrento -mummies taxi, over an Alfa Romeo Stelvio? I have driven the Stelvio and didn't notice any issues you are on about with the brake by wire, and the turning input is a beautiful thing. I find it absolutely disrespectful toward the brand when motoring journalists and wanna be journous harp on about reliability bla bla bla BS. I'm so proud to still be driving a 2012 Giulietta 1750QV from new. The only gripe I have is that the base price for a new Giulia starts at a tad over R1000 000.00 here in sunny south Africa. The brand should consider a few affordable options in line with most other brands, but keep their identity.

[@miks564]

I would say boot space is on pair with it's direct competitors. 525l is 4% less than the 550l on the X3 or the Q5, but again 5% more than the Porsche Macan 500l or the 495l from the XC60. In fact, 525l is the same we find in the GLC Coupe or the X4. Far from a reference, which goes perhaps to the F-Pace, but to me it looks pretty much average for the segment.

[@miks564]

The 2.0l from Alfa Romeo is ok? With this engine, the Stelvio is capable of less than 6s 0-100Km/h. You will struggle to find a competitor with a 2.0l with better power figures or better performance than this, Porsche Macan (2.0 TFSI included).

[@alexmarkov5097]

Jay, one little remap, will sort the revving problem, quite well and the consumption problem as well!

[@Z-u-m-a]

Agree on the width. Same for many modern cars especially SUVs - it's only going one way and getting a bit daft. Really wish they'd done a Giulia estate - would look superb. And wonder what the diesel of this is like? Sounds like it would be similar nature but better mpg.

[@buckleyjteams]

I’ve managed 55mpg out of my stelvio 2.2d and is quick enough for every day use I’ve got a 0-60 on this KZbin account

[@andersbjrnsen7203]

Giulia Estate would be fantastic!

[@kakotokakoto2746]

Fiat diesel engines are know to be great. Starting with 1.9 jtdm. I'm pretty sure that diesel would be the best option for this car. 210 HP and a lot of torque.

[@nigo1787]

The diesel is fine, not super involving but we're talking about a 4 cylinder SUV with DF gearbox so... it does the job very well I would choose the petrol, but to be honest I would choose the Giulia over the Stelvio in the first place 😅

[@Autotrawler1]

yeh I think you either get a diesel for good mpg or a quad for thrills. the veloce is like you wanted the quad but couldn't afford it

[@AlfaRomeoqaz]

Alfa Romeo is always overlooked, have a go in them and then we talk

[@Taylor40667]

These were on lease offer pre pandemic no deposit £330 month 2 year Was tempted by this warm version trouble was my nearest dealer was 2 hours away

[@JPuddybuc]

Own a '19 Giulia quad and the wife drives the '21 Stelvio with the 4-banger. You are 100% correct- BUT... we bought BOTH with less than 20K miles and remaining warranty for less than new BMW 3 series. You frankly cannot discount the massive depreciation / value prospect from the review. A new Kia compact cost more.

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, good to see another Alfa! 🙏

[@joneastelow3242]

I have a 20 plate Veloce in Ferrari red, I like to call it, a real head turner. The brakes just take a bit of getting used to. A fantastic car with great Italian styling, what's not to like....Massage seating????The gym is the place to find that. ;)

[@heimatliebe116]

Great work, JayEmm!

[@robinoconnor1203]

Good timing, I have been considering a Stelvio, a car I have always liked. The problem is the price, it is very close to a lightly configured Porsche Macan S.

[@jackom11]

Hi James , thanks for the video we take the mito and stelvio and both Saabs to D Salmon cars Colchester. Excellent service. Would choose another Alfa just to be able to continue using them. Can’t say fairer than that I think . You are welcome to drive the diesel stelvio one day. Best wishes mark (in Braintree)

[@ingerasulffs]

I test drove a Gulia several years ago. Very short and uninspired route selected by the dealer. I did manage to get a good break in when turning into a driveway and a surprise car came from the front, making me do a semi emergency breaking. I though it was brilliant in the moment, like telepathy. I controlled that car perfectly. Since then I saw multiple reviewers complain about the breaks and every time I wonder "wtf"?

[@hexgraphica]

Alfa was one of the first manufacturers to fiddle around with SUV concepts, even 20 years ago. Then they remembered being under Fiat management

[@5Lawrence]

My wife has a 2.2d and though diesel is not fashionable it make sense over a low-character turbo 4. I love the looks and handling and the interior is the best Alfa has ever done - nothing wrong with switch gear but infotainment is a bit low rent . All feels alternative against the Germans and Japanese . Brakes do take a lot of getting used to, especially if you drive other cars ... That said it never feels wide when your other car is a Mustang!

[@qba4455]

Stelvio is brilliant

[@caymanblack9567]

Brakes? never even noticed to be honest i found them excellent

[@tomandtinamatthews6866]

Anyone that only wants a car to get you from here to there should buy something else. The Stelvio and Guilia are for enthusiasts that appreciate the emotion of design and the driving experience. My wife has the Stelvio ti Sport AWD and I had the Giulia ti Sport AWD . They are awesome cars for car lovers.

[@philcliffe6909]

Most people want a car that gets you from here to there. For a here to here car you'd want something more exciting.

[@miks564]

I agree with the road noise. It's not brilliant, not terrible but it's there. However, we can find some videos here on youtube where the actual measured road noise was better than the competitors Audi Q5 and BMW X3 ...same for the ride comfort.

[@briansteele2723]

Even the most modern screen based infotainment will age quickly, so having a design that uses normal controls may age better? I wish more of the fast alfas were available in manual but i guess that is related to emissions regs?

[@vibingwithvinyl]

Holy hell. It's as wide as my '77 Dodge Royal Monaco Brougham was and that was a proper land yacht.

[@psircos]

The Guilia Veloce is prob the car I'd want in the future. I can't see me ever being to stretch to the Quadrifolgio. If I'm honest though, the brake system does cause me some anxiety. I'm not sure I can get on board with it, no matter how much someone tries to convince me it's safe! Great review, pretty much on the money. Although massive improvements have been made, it remains a bit of a 'cult' badge.....one I'll always love

[@N-youodd]

Initially I thought the braking was "different" but that's all, you quickly get to grips with it and it becomes perfect.

[@stevefarnworth]

I have a Giulia Veloce - get one! The braking takes about 3 junctions to get used to. It's not linear, but you can modulate it well enough. N and A modes as laggy, but D will put a smile on your face every single time.

[@miks564]

The fly-by-wire brakes are from Continental. I agree there’s room for improvement. But I have no issues with it. The car (Stelvio) breaks really well as expected from the Brembo brakes setup.

[@AcM.5233]

I'm looking at a '23 Quad. All I want to find out is, will it pull my 21' Aquasport boat.

[@davidbewick9208]

The Busso in 12v form is redlined at about 6500. The 24v at 7000 but no point in revving to that as the power band runs out long before. The 24v doesn't need to be revved above 5500 even in the 164 in cloverleaf form

[@sotirisbakaimis3276]

I own a Busso 24v, above 3.000 rpm is very alive till the red line without hesitating

[@davidbewick9208]

@@sotirisbakaimis3276 Wouldn't disagree. I've had 7, some 12v and some 24v. They rev clean but no point in revving above 5500 as the power is all done by then.

[@tomwebb7091]

No point revving the 24V Busso V6 to 7k limit??? This is pure scrilege, you absolute heretic!

[@davidbewick9208]

@@tomwebb7091 Up to you ...rev it to 7000 all the time if you want. Cambelt won't like it though and it's beyond the power band and 7000 in 2nd in a 24v 164 cloverleaf is 70mph. It's quicker to 70 to change up to 3rd at 5500rpm.

[@yashveersingh1795]

Great video Thanks ✨🔥💯😍

[@amospizzey1]

Can you test a stelvio QF please ?

[@jkdwyer3891]

I love my Stelvio 280 hp, you get used to the brakes 🤩

[@LiamE69]

Mixing your metaphors there James. Cooking in the car world has always been hot. We are not winos. Well some of us aren't.

[@micr75i]

hi, after watching your video I booked at test drive at my local Alfa dealer here in Italy as I was really curious about the brake issue. They didn't have a petrol 280 hp on hand so I had to settle for a 2.2 diesel instead. I have to say that I had no problems whatsoever with the brakes, zero. I drive a 2014 BMW 520D and to be honest the Stelvio braking felt a lot better. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for the video!

[@beatles4sale2007]

Best thing, the infamous Alfa “depreciation”….loads on Autotrader at sub £25K, so relatively cheap and I’m sure you can beat the dealer up as well.

[@miks564]

5:58 Why do you say that the 525l of boot space are a tad disappointing? Yes, it might be far from the leading class F-Pace, but It's only 4% less than the X3, Q5 or GLC and it's on pair with the X4 which also means bigger than the likes of the GLC Coupe, Q5 Sportback, X3i, XC60, Macan, etc.

[@matthewgodwin3050]

The cars may be great, but until Alfa Romeo and Fiat Group sort out their dealer network and improve customer service, it's very hard to take them seriously.

[@howardlake6178]

You can’t beat, finding a well hidden button

[@Calilasseia]

Let's face it, if you WANT an Alfa Romeo, you're going to want to help yourself to the Quadrifoglio models. But if you do, be prepared for the fact that they are unashamed rocketships, and you'll need serious driving skill to appreciate them. If you don't have serious driving skills, they'll scare you with what they can do. :) The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is one of the few cars that genuinely deserves that much-abused epithet of the Internet age - "insane". It is indecently fast. Put it in race mode, and it's the Millennium Falcon on four wheels. If you can afford one, be prepared for a roller coaster ride. Over 500 bhp in an SUV is frankly silly.

[@TsLeng]

Yes. When Alfa calls the lower models 'rapid' (veloce), the hot one is gonna be lit.

[@14energy]

Amazing car

[@dickieblench5001]

Hired one on holiday never noticed the brakes being weird

[@Dominicaification]

had a ti sport with lsd and performance bushings and the bucket seats....traded it in for levante stayed italian

[@dough740]

Alfa dealers.... the only reason they are there is for you to buy new cars. Servicing? Go to a specialist. Advice? Go to a specialist. Parts? Go to a specialist. It's like going into an Apple shop with a 3 year old computer - ""Obsolete, mate - we don't touch these now. You need to buy one of these new ones." A specialist?.... "Looking great - we'll need to fix the suspension, but it's pretty easy. We'll sort a couple of other niggles we've found - you can pick it up tomorrow". (This post is dedicated to McLennans of Edinburgh lol)

[@ca9968]

What German car is loaded as standard? The extras list at BMW is absolutely ridiculous...

[@MrTitaniumBG]

I just really wished they made the Gulia in an estate!

[@potatochobit]

I would like this as a hybrid.

[@THEBUFUMAN.]

the engine is not OK. Its one of the best. No issues with the breaks here. they bite if u like to or break smooth.

[@markc6030]

Stelvio Quad next then James 😉

[@stupornaut4774]

better off with a slightly second hand macan gts then?

[@jimdee9801]

Why do some not want a gullia because of the great zf gearbox

[@jjchockey]

Because manual is the best.

[@gregmcable]

Considering the bar for these things is pretty low, the Alfa is as good as any sedan derived “performance” SUV. The people who buy these things either don’t know or don’t care about the compromised driving dynamics, so just choose the grill of your choice on the tall, heavy, not-all-that functional box that catches your eye.

[@wpjohn91]

How doese it compare with the maser lev?

[@namibgtv6]

It has an analogue tachometer, and speedometer (yes kids, thats cool), it looks angry, it’s different than all the other things in a sea of cars that can only be differentiated by their emblems, it’s unmistakably Alfa Romeo, a brand with a very real, very pure heritage. Regarding your statement that previous modern Alfas were a letdown in the interior department, you are not entirely correct. Take the 156 for example, compared to VW’s and BMW’s of the same era, the 156 was better put together, was more comfortable in many cases, outperformed most of their competition, and looked a heck of a lot better. Alfa also used superior leather in these cars compared to that in BMW’s, and especially the junk used in VW’s. The GT/147 was equally well put together, alas not always as highly equipped as competitors. Keep in mind that the 156 was a much much bigger deal when it was launched, than the new Giulia was, mainly because it was so much better than the competition. I cannot vouch for the Giulietta or Mito, as i do not have owner experience with those, but looking at higher mileage used examples in the market, they seem to hold up as well as any German or Japanese car in it’s class. My wife daily drives a 2002 156 V6, which now has 270000 km on the clock. It does not use a drop of oil, and the leather interior looks like new. We love it, and take care of it. The same cannot be said for a 2010 VW Golf 6 TSI that i briefly owned. The leather was coming apart, it drank oil at an alarming rate, and had a new warning light blinking on the dash every time i started it up, and the interior felt tatty and plasticky. And this was at only 136000 km. I was the second owner, and the first was an elderly couple. The Golf never felt anything as substantial as the 156, and never put a smile on my face. It was a miserable little car to say the least. Also, in most cases, people who criticize Alfas have never owned one. And those who have, James, really do not care what you have to say about them..

[@daveworthing2294]

The "g" isn't pronounced in Quadrifoglio.

[@philcliffe6909]

Yep. At least he managed to pronounce 'Veloce'. We could have been blessed with 'Veloke'.

[@jamessheehy4895]

Would love to see a review of an x5m competition people keep saying its the best

[@lesfernandez888]

It is.

[@jjchockey]

Not even a competition. The Stelvio QV is significantly more fun and engaging to drive. The X5M is fast AF and has an amazing interior though.

[@ijoseluis]

This was my last visit and is, logically, my last comment. A bad taste review. You seem, with the due respect, quite hysterical, while making depreciatory comments on Alfa Romeo, many of them ridiculously subjective (related to your specific figure). Why don't you focus on what you made me really appreciate your talent, to express the discovery of the car passion? You don't like? Pass away! As to me, bye bye!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Bye bye!

[@annagattellari85]

Stelvio Alfaromeo❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Android-vk8yh]

You got to give it to Alfa drivers. Yeah they've got the money to spend but if they drove one of the German alternatives most people just think you're just a show off but with an Alfa for you can get away with it and I salute them. A bit disappointed it didn't have the sound of the others though?

[@sotirisbakaimis3276]

Best middle class SUV in the world by far....really far....far away...

[@pauljames4111]

Not a good review overall in my opinion. To start with why that revolting colour? It makes the Stelvio look awful. There are some great colours that really suit the car and show off its shape but vauxhall astra blue or whatever it is doesn't. The comments about the steering being so sharp it's almost dangerous is just rediculous. Yes it's much sharper than most SUVs and many saloons, but for a guy that has done a recent video on a TVR Tuscan and thinking of buying one, if you think the steering on the Stelvio is too sharp do not bother with the TVR Tuscan which has about the most twitchy direct steering I have ever come across & I have had 4 TVRs including a Tuscan & Tuscan S. Similarly I had no issues with the brakes, maybe it just takes some people a bit of time to get used to them but I was throwing it around on my first test drive without issue. I can only assume you jumped out of something very sloppy before you got into the Stelvio Additionally comments about the boot space and info entertainment system are kind of irrelevant. People that buy this car want a sports car but need some practicality and some ground clearance. That does not exist without compromise and on that basis the Stelvio is about as good as it gets. My Vesuvio Grey Stelvio with graphite alloys (which in my opinion looks 1000 times better than that blue thing) is also stage 1 remapped to 310bhp & 460Nm. It pulls so well that it does not need high revs, whilst I agree it would be nice, as would more exhaust sound. It actually sounds quite good on cold start so probably best to have an exhaust modification. Coming from donkeys years of owning sports cars like TVR, Porsche, Lotus, VX220 Turbo etc I was seriously shocked how you can throw this car around both right & high speed corners and the grip on acceleration is incredible for such a vehicle. I do not understand comments about suspension not good around town as it's comfy and takes bumps far better than a friend's Seat Ateca Cupra or my previous BMW X5 4.6is. I also don't understand comments about feeling massive as I always felt it seemed compact and have not had any issues worrying about its width & being narrower would not help it's handling. As for mpg it obviously depends on how you drive and which drive mode you are in. I am sure it would be difficult to reach the claimed near 40mpg but I am averaging mid to high 20s in dynamic mode and I don't tend to hang about. I don't think that's bad for a petrol engined SUV of this performance. Here's a link to a pics in Vesuvio Grey. www.flickr.com/gp/184850930@N06/bWMn35f041

[@JayEmmOnCars]

1. Colour is subjective, so you can't say because I liked it and you didn't that the review is bad. 2. I'm not expecting your casual car buyer to get a Tuscan S, you know what you're in for if you buy one of those. 3. The brakes are hideous. Like I said in the video, chucking it around they ARE fine - it's for low speed stuff they suffer. 4. Boot space and infotainment are VERY relevant for a car like this. Maybe not to YOU, but they are important. 5. So, you were so happy with the performance of your car out of the box, you had to have it remapped? Clearly you didn't like it then 6. It IS massive, and it IS too firm around town - they should have given this car adaptive dampers. It's expensive enough. Your car was riding on different wheels and tyres, which will have an impact. 7. I drove in natural mode, on the motorway, at 70, still got poor economy - it's not an economical car, even in its category.

[@pauljames4111]

@@JayEmmOnCars @JayEmm on Cars Agree colour is subjective but as a car reviewer you are well aware that certain cars look far better or worse in certain colours. Maybe that blue Stelvio looks better in the flesh & I guess you got what you were given, but in my opinion it ruined the stylish looks of the car, the styling being one of the key reasons for buying the Stelvio. The steering I can only repeat that it is faster and more direct than most SUVs, but it is far from being too fast and took me just a few minutes to readjust from having just driven a regular SUV to the dealership. Surely most people buying an Alfa Stelvio know why they are buying an Alfa Romeo and particularly one named after the Stelvio Pass. Without the quick steering it would not handle as nicely as it does. It is absolutely miles away from the likes of the TVR Tuscan where you can almost end up in the ditch from breathing on the steering wheel, but at the same time you have about the most exhilarating experience you can find from any car. As for the brakes I can only say I have not had issues with being able to stop in the desired place and there are many cars these days using brake by wire. Unlikely they would go this route if it meant you could not control your braking. Maybe it's that particular car or a difference in driving style or what you were driving previously. I did not say boot space is not relevant but again most buying the Alfa will have the sense to realise there is a compromise between style and space & will be choosing style. It's not exactly like it's short of boot space anyway. A large weekly food shop disappears in the boot with space left over and the seats fold almost flat if you need extra. It may not be the best boot in class but surely more than enough for most and especially those that prioritise style, brand, performance & handling. Info entertainment does everything I need and is nice and unobtrusive. Can't stand all these new massive stick up screens where you have to go through distracting menus just to change the temp on the climate control. It's a driver's car not an I.T department. As for the performance I was quite impressed with its standard performance but after owning 60mph in 3.6 second cars I wanted a bit more poke and therefore as I have with every turbo car I have owned I gave it that extra poke for very little money. Why wouldn't you not do it if you can? My point is it's very effective, cheap and easy to do on a turbo car. Regarding being massive that again is not something I have felt when driving it & as a car reviewer you are no doubt aware of the relationship between a cars width and it's cornering ability. There's a reason they stuck a wide body on a 996 Turbo and it wasn't to to make you feel it was too wide for the UK roads. Anyway some differences in opinion and not just because I own a Stelvio. If I didn't need the ground clearance where I live I would likely have already traded it in for an F Type Jag or similar. Saying that for combination of badge, styling, performance, handling, paddle shift, interior, running cost and practicality I think the Stelvio is hard to beat which is exactly why I bought it.

[@scottsmith2173]

Get a life man, if you don't like it then don't watch it. He didn't choose the colour it is what was sent to him.

[@pauljames4111]

@@scottsmith2173 Perhaps you could explain how anyone decides if a car review is good or not if they don't watch it first