DRIVEN: Is The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Still As Special As Ever?

[@LogicalCaptainkirk]

Ive drove Bmw's for 30 years. I swallowed the "ultimate driving machine" sales pitch. I now drive a Giulia, 2 odd years. I cant/wont part with it. Not looking to upgrade either. Its just an awesome experience without doubt. I like to look at it every day. I love driving it every day. Its just unbelievable. I never realized owning a car could be this good. I cant say anymore because its already been said. Drive one and see. Peace.

[@MW-gi1tr]

Bought mine new 3.4 years ago. 21k miles later. No complaints. No mechanical issues. No visits to the dealer other than annual oil change. It is a truly special car. I replaced the Pirelli’s with Bridgestone Pole Position which resulted in a tremendous improvement In ride/drive quality and added the Forza exhaust controller so I can open the valves in all four drive modes. Fantastic car! And BTW, Alfa does not use the U connect multi media system. Maserati does and quite frankly it’s one of the best on the market. Alfa’s was internally developed and lacks the sophistication of the U connect, but to quote Chris Harris, if you’re buying a car for those things you’re not really an enthusiast.

[@Emira_75]

3.4 years ago 😂

[@MW-gi1tr]

@@Emira_75 5.3 years ago now. 32k miles. No issues

[@Rhysbay]

AR still gets a slaying for reliability but I’ve had a Giulietta for 6 years this month and it’s never let me down. Just make sure it goes to a specialist for maintenance and be prepared to pay to look after it

[@albertkisiel4346]

So far over 1 year with my Giulietta QV, no problems either!

[@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt]

My 159 Sportwagon has 300,000km and everything still works, no rattles or squeaks and it's never been towed. One of the most reliable cars I've ever owned. (Having GM electrics may have something to do with it?)

[@albertkisiel4346]

@@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt Beautiful car, I have to buy it at some point of my life (the sooner the better)

[@firelime1621]

Agreed... on my 2nd Giulietta (so a total of 6 years of owning an alfa) totally reliable. Joined by a 4c about a year ago... again totally reliable. Had more issues with a couple of golf's and a Passat I owned a few years back.

[@jamieh2304]

@@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt they are Bosch electrics on the 159. Alfa have used Bosch on most of their cars since the 90s. I think GM typically use Bosch electrics too.

[@DexterBelgium]

Still makes me smile each and every morning. 2017 manual. 113k kms since I drove it out the showroom. Zero problems. Anyone can say whatever the bleep they want. It's glorious and I still thank San Marchione for this miracle.

[@ExLondoner]

I've owned my Quadrifoglio for over a year now, and it's been my daily driver. Zero reliability issues, it's a fantastic car.

[@patrickanthony3632]

Reassuring to hear! Any updates?!

[@a004]

I bought a 2020 QV 3 months ago and the number of days I haven't driven it I can count on one hand. This car begs to be driven. Such a fun fun car.

[@kurtbarker3303]

I’ve had 80 or so cars in 30 years. The Giulia Quadrifoglio I’ve bought with my own money (!) had for 2 years, and not even thinking of looking at the classifieds! My first Alfa and it’s truly glorious!

[@DAGATHire]

so you have had 80 cars in 30 years thats roughly 2.66 cars per year and now you have had a Giulia for 2 years... your maths dont add up sir. That said... Alfa's are great cars, and have been for many years. it's only stupid fat old media with their stereotypes that perpetuate the alfa unreliable shite. This video properly turned me off this channel.

[@jamesterakazis6624]

@@DAGATHire Well said DAWG !!

[@riidokolosov]

I don't know exactly where you got the info on the Giulietta, James, but I used to have ties in an Alfa dealership (in continental Europe) and when planning our aftersales financials (based on both historical data and BMW numbers at the time) the Giulietta proved to be unbelievably reliable. So much so that we estimated that it might be one of the most reliable cars on the market at the time... We actually "lost" money against our business model because we couldn't repair them enough.

[@greengrass9572]

Go to 'Car and Driving' on youtube, there you will find reviews by professional motoring journalists, not bias amateurs like here.

[@riidokolosov]

I am definitely not calling James biased in any way - on the contrary I respect James’ opinion a great deal - it’s just an inevitable fact that you can’t posess all the information especially on something like reliability which is both subject to manipulation from carmakers as well as anecdotal bias from drivers

[@greengrass9572]

@@riidokolosov don't get star struck by vloggers in fast expensive cars.

[@xwarped83]

@@greengrass9572 “bias amateurs” you sound salty.

[@comeberza]

Tsssss we need people to believe that. It is a strategy to buy them in 5 years for cheap.

[@coltr7561]

Most of the critisisms you say in this video, suspension, steering, turbo boost, exhaust sound goes better when you switch to race mode. Im not sure why you have to speak this reliability thing in every Alfa video. the Giulia is ranked more reliable than any of its german competitors in UK. . The 159, Brera times Alfa took second place in JD POwer Germany study. Also the 4c was praised and won many comparisons over Elise at its time. Its the UK only where is this bad press, it all started after EVO review, most UK journalists continued its saga. "Is a used Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback reliable? According to our most recent reliability survey, the answer is a surprising yes. " Im not sure either that Mito is more ureliable than any other european car with similar price.

[@odinikita4821]

Because he likes to perpetuate false perception.

[@alfisti93]

Also that "FCA parts bin" drivel - show me one switch, button or stalk on the Giulia/Stelvio, that comes from another FCA car. It's just an outright lie. (Not that I would mind if ALFA shared some things with other cars. For instance they could use the U-connect infotainment from other FCA cars instead of their own system, it would be more of an improvement!) Like every other Alfa review - it's either tacky "passione / amore / dolce vita" poems or completely clueless commentary.

[@GadgetyMV]

@Coltr You mention the Brera, the V6 3.2L had a GM derived engine where the cam chains would go, sadly. Where I'm at the quote for a replacement was £4200.

[@coltr7561]

@@GadgetyMV not big problem. Lots of brands have these kind of issues, like some BMWs. But the price you mention cant be right, with that money yo will get whole new engine.

[@GadgetyMV]

@footballcoreano Have a look at the 2004-2008 M272 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 balance shaft sprocket, and the effect on cam timing. And the lawsuit, ouch. Or the 986 Porsche Boxster cracked cylinder liners, IMS bearing trouble; 986 and 987 Boxster and Boxster S cylinder bore scoring.

[@VoloKinProject]

James my wife drove her MiTo from 50k to 90k miles with just a new clutch and 1 broken spring. That's pretty much it. I don't know how many new generations of reliable cars will take Alfa to prove people wrong about their reliability.

[@claudioschumi87]

If its not German then people won't take your comment seriously which is bs I think Alfa has come a long way from the days of poor quality build.

[@miks564]

The Italian lack of reliability is always on the mind of those who actually never had one in their life. ...and it suits the industry.

[@MRebReanu]

My "chronically unreliable" Quadrifoglio Verde has almost 170k km, with one turbo intervention and a valve cover gasket changed. Running beautifully still. The only complaint is that the folding screen mechanism judders on the way down.

[@patrickanthony3632]

Nice hearing some positive ownership stories as well! Do you have an extended warranty on it?!

[@fabiocene]

Just back from a 4000 km trip across Europe with my 2017 Alfa Giulia Quadrifoglio: not a single issue, not a drop of oil burnt.

[@apostolostvable]

I can't speak to European models but here in the States the "Big three" of Germany all have piss-poor reliability records. Doesn't stop people from gobbling them up. I own the Giulia Ti Sport (Veloce), and have had it for 3.5 years thus far. Not a single hiccup other than regular maintenance (fluids/brakes). The car is sublime. And, while here locally they are starting to appear semi-regularly, it's not a BMW or Audi (which are everywhere) so exclusivity definitely makes it stand out. I still get the turning heads and frivolous conversations and compliments at fuel stations. Half the time people have never heard of the brand, but to be fair it was missing for an entire generation (1995-2017, not counting 8C and 4C as those are boutique/exotic models).

[@sultanoftippoo3857]

Great video Jay, thanks letting me reminisce (had my Quadrifoglio for a couple of years and it was fabulous). For anyone looking to buy a second hand Giulia Quadrifoglio in the UK here are my thoughts; - I never had any reliability issues other than small things like pedestrian alert alarm that wouldn’t turn off (fixed no issue) - a big factor that moved me away from BMW (loved my e39 M5, e92 M3 and M2) was the 5 year warranty Alfa offered. If you are buying a used car make sure it was registered under the Alfacare scheme (5 years warranty and three years free servicing) - as Jay says the Alfa dealer network isn’t great (although Sturgess in Leicester who I bought the car new from were 1st class). Finding which dealer had properly trained Quadrifoglio staff was not easy (not all have that expertise) so I took mine to specialist independents like Monza Motorsport on the South Coast who were superb - they accept the Alfacare program so no servicing costs (at least in the first 3 years). - where Jay and I might disagree is on the power/performance. Whereas the power of my M series cars was much lower than the Quadrifoglio, those cars flattered my driving ability (my way of saying I’m not Lewis Hamilton). The Quadrifoglio is a totally different animal. The car is light years ahead of anything I’d driven before and I found on the public road this car can get you into a lot of trouble very quickly (it rewards finesse with steering and brakes and will bite you if you aren’t concentrating) - in short, Jay is used to driving cars +500 BHP so isn’t phased but I found it a big step up from what I was used to. - re: tyres, if buying second hand the car probably has Michelin PS fitted. If not I’d highly recommend getting a set (original Pirelli Corsas weren’t great in the winter) Bottom line is I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the Quadrifoglio (I always got compliments driving it and it always felt very special) - one of those cars you take out for a drive for no reason other than to enjoy it.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Always appreciate real world feedback

[@Matt-go7ss]

May I ask what car you sold it for?

[@sultanoftippoo3857]

@@Matt-go7ss absolutely Matt, I went retro and bought a 95 Ferrari F355 GTS. To be honest, I think around 400 BHP is around the power that works best on the public roads and the 355 with a bit less than that is perfect for me. As a daily driver I use my wife’s Alfa Stelvio which we’ve had for about 18 months now and like the Giulia has been a pleasure to drive and own.

[@CadillacFan77]

I can't agree more on those points, I had a QV as well for 4 years in central Europe. One thing maybe to add is, it's pretty rubish in snow, but I think other RWD sport-cars are not any better. Never had major issues with it despite having had one of the first automatic QVs in Europe. I even put it on the race track 4 times, without any problems (except for the Pirellis which really really wear out quickly under such conditions). I have some videos on my channel from those runs. I only traded it in because a nice F430 came along my way....

[@DAGATHire]

@@JayEmmOnCars except the real world feedback with actual reliability figure... ignored that real world feedback.

[@grtbgf]

I don't think many would agree with you on the Quadrifoglio not being "distinct" enough from the regular models, like M3 is from the regular 3. Subtlety is way sexier, if you know you know, and Giulia herself is absolute stunner and set so far apart from any sedan on the road!

[@coltr7561]

I dont see much different than BMW, m3 f80 isnt much more different than regular 3 series. I think there is almost same amount of differencies.

[@grtbgf]

@@coltr7561 yea but hes probably thinking about the new m3, which is totally different (and uglier) from 3 series.

[@coltr7561]

@@grtbgf probably but that bit stupid comparison as they are different generation cars (age). Then better would be maybe compare GTAm-

[@rn6538]

While not the same we’ve had a 2017 2.0 Ti Q4 stateside for 2 years now and love it. We have put 14,000 miles on it and had zero issues. Just oil changes. I’ve actually been debating selling my 2001 996 and just taking over the Giulia. It’s that good.

[@scorpionking8661]

I have a 2022 Alfa Stelvio (SUV) and love it!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Corvolet5]

This car grew on me. As a V8 fanatic I couldn't really get over the fact that it has such a small V6 at first, but later on I realized how great that little thing sounds! Not comparable to some N/A V6 from the likes of Nissan, but still very Italian, very puristic. It's actually very impressive how well this car has aged. It was released 6 years ago, and by that point you would expect the competition to have caught on and beat it in most aspects. As for right now, only the new M4 Competition is a bit faster with about the same power output. About 0.3 or 0.4 seconds to 200 kph / 124 mph isn't a total game changer, provided the QV was launched right. Used ones with low mileage can be bought for just about 50k, which is a killer deal for a car like this. I'd take it over any German competitor because that design is just stunning and not generic in the slightest.

[@mattpaul3343]

What N/A V6 from Nissan are you referring too, not the VQ I hope cause the F154 V6 sounds a million times better

[@Corvolet5]

@@mattpaul3343 Exactly that one. The VQ35DE sounds brutal, especially with a decent exhaust. The F154 sounds nice but you can't compare turbo to N/A

[@mattpaul3343]

@@Corvolet5 disagree with you heavily on that one ngl but u do u

[@VladoT]

@@Corvolet5 I had a modified Nissan DE V6 engine with proper exhaust and that thing sounded like an F1 at 8K RPM 😀

[@2steaksandwiches665]

I get your point on it being a small V6 but in reality I ride mine in A mode and I don’t push it hard too much when I’m commuting.

[@chasinglimits]

Simply put, Yes! Mine has been a blast to drive, turns heads everywhere and reliable!

[@2steaksandwiches665]

Yes, I’ve had mine for 2 1/2 years and still love every minute of it. It’s interesting too, so many guys walk up to me and ask me about the car. Those that know what it is, know what it is. Specifically the 16 through 30 year old male population looks at it more than a Ferrari on the road. I’m just happy they are still gearheads out there. Regarding reliability, not a single problem. However the maintenance is quite expensive but I knew that going in. But I got it in the color that you’re supposed to get it in, the tri-coat red and yellow calipers. They charge a crap load for those options. I think I paid three grand for both.

[@harald.370]

Such a beautiful car to behold... for a Sedan that is...

[@saidalas8381]

looks weird

[@angi733]

Great Cars! I loved mine for 4.5 years, the 2017 car you originally drove. If people are looking to buy, just beware that ideally they should drive both pre and post facelift cars, 2020 on cars have more differences than meet the eye. In fact I bought a 2021 car and put 1100 miles on it but didn't like the way it drove compared to my earlier car, so I sold it on. The newer cars were modified after people complained about wheel skip when turning tightly in the cold. As a result Alfa Changed the suspension uprights, lower suspension links, shocks, springs, and probably because of the new autonomous functions the steering rack (all verified on the parts cat and by Alfa Technical and my dealer). The rack also seems to have different calibration. The steering felt less sharp and I did not have the same confidence in the handling; also verified by Jamie Porter of the Alfa workshop who tried it too. The new car also has thicker glass, not a bad thing as it feels more refined when you want it to be and my new car also did not have a carbon roof, that is now a £2500 option and you can only have the exposed carbon. So make sure you drive both pre and post facelift; 2019 could be the best year as you get split fold seats, Apple Car play, the extra port injection for a smoother idle, standard carbon roof, but the original suspension setup as signed off by the ex Ferrari Skunkworks team and less so the marketing department. Oh and my dealer D Salmon cars in Essex were superb throughout the 4.5 years.

[@Suprahampton]

And the new cars will murder you with Road Tax

[@johnchurch4705]

It’s a pity when enthusiasts build the car they want, then later on the bean counter management start getting involved and ruin things.

[@rogerpreece7762]

The wheel skipping issue is something called the "Ackerman Effect" in geometry. they are actually supposed to do it to help with high speed handling!.. I know I have got a 2017 model and it does it particularly when its cold and you give it a full turn of steering lock.... just avoid doing it when its cold and you won,t scrub the outside of your tyres off either

[@angi733]

@@rogerpreece7762 They could have reduced the skipping created by Ackerman by simply fitting different tyres (such as PS4 or Eagle f1 Supersport); the Corsa tyre is particularly susceptible in the cold. Instead they decided to re design the suspension. Nuts.

[@rogerpreece7762]

@@angi733 Hi... agreed.. but after I found out what it was caused by I don,t do it any more... Simple !

[@MetalHead1904]

I think these are one of the most gorgeous modern cars!

[@markbennett9787]

You’re very unkind to the Giulietta, I’ve had a Giulietta Super 1.4 Multiair 150bhp for three years, the only trouble is that the reversing sensors have failed, to be repaired at the annual service in November. It’s a super car indeed and I never tire of driving it.

[@zzhughesd]

I’d agree with that. James was over harsh…. although, front end and rear end prettyess aside you know…. My heart still with 147. I have zero feeling Guiletta. 90s 00s to current Alfa sparkled, and even Volvos. .. Rorty engine. Feedback steering wheel. Noise. Even dash plastics. 147 has it over Guiletta. Which is pissed if you ask me. I’m a Petrol head and a car trader. Never had less than 5-10 anything. Twin Spark 147 156s flawed and fun. No fun in Guiletta. Even 1.75 tbi 159 Guiletta just don’t have it. I also like sensible motoring. Enjoy buy use sell under 10k. I just see all euro cars as euro bubbles at 30k wait for flaws character show through when sub 10k. And I like mk7 and mk8 Golf now. So it shows the motor industry got it wrong. Golf better , shouldn’t be. Looks better in juice green chrome details. Sad. Sad. Alfa needs its heart on its sleeve back. This is what James tried to allude to.

[@lucianolucidi8624]

What a bullshit! Giulietta not reliable? I have a Giulietta for 8 years now. A 1.4 170cv. Never had any problems with it. In Italy there are sooo many around. It's been one of the most sold Alfa ever. And everybody had one is alway speaking good about it. Hey mate. This guy is not saying the truth.

[@slasher9883]

@footballcoreano We heard you the first time, no need to keep reposting the same BS message. You do realise that Toyota and Mazda have won at LeMans don't you?

[@markbennett9787]

I’ve just discovered that it isn’t a fault, I had left the power adapter for my tow ball mounted bike carrier in the plug and this had disabled the reversing sensors !

[@noircluck]

@@lucianolucidi8624 I have had two of these, now a QV, both fantastic cars, this guy is talking nonsense.

[@cameronwood1994]

I heard you coming down the road in this the other week, sounded glorious! P.S. I live in Fintry at the bottom of the hill

[@rogerpreece7762]

Hi... I have a QF and I don't really understand your comment about the brakes... I,ve never had an issue with mine at all. And there are lots of people who can tune the ecu to open the exhaust valves for you if you want.. Celtic Tuning in Cornwall and NJS in Pershore who are excellent, they have upped mine to 600+ bhp and its proper mad now. Will just walk away from similar BMW , Mercs etc......and the engine "ordinary!?!" are you serious??? its anything but "ordinary" unless as you mentioned you are driving around in N mode. I do agree with you about the Main Dealers though... you are better off with Independents. And just LOOK at them !... Gorgeous from any angle. And as per your comments about the interior.. I like it... its understated.

[@keith6360]

Had one as a rental on a holiday in Italy. Although it was only a diesel, you could tell that the chassis is well calibrated and you feel in tune with it immediately. Could handle double what the 4-pot diesel was putting out. Did 200kph on the austrada and it was well composed on high speeds. I still think of when I can get myself back behind the wheel of one.

[@mattpaul3343]

There is a simple mod you can do that opens the valves in whatever mode you want, the Giulietta really isn't an unreliable car either, I have a QV and have never really had any problems with it, and the interior really isn't that poor either, sure it could've used a Giulia like steering wheel and the the Uconnect system is a little behind but is still nice, especially the seats in the QV

[@GoldenCroc]

Everything is relative, and subjective to boot. To me the knobs and buttons felt a good deal less solid than the german brands. One could argue thats irrelevant, and maybe I somewhat agree, but it is a factor in the "interior quality" column.

[@Matt-go7ss]

I've seen online you can update the uconnect to a up to date apple car play android auto

[@alfagtvjan]

I had a QV for 18 months. I did more mileage to the dealer and back than I did going about my business. The early cars suffered from numerous design faults and mine had a faulty differential which was eventually replaced. Trouble was, the dealer couldn't fit it correctly so I sold it after giving up. I had a warranty which saved me thousands of pounds. Good car to drive apart from the power delivery which was so explosive that you were doing illegal speeds in seconds. Replaced it with a 2020 Audi RS5 coupe which is a much better ownership proposition.

[@mattpaul3343]

@@alfagtvjan Everyone has different experiences with cars, my family have owned Alfas my whole life and have never had any serious problems besides a few on my dads 159 after the mileage started to creep up but that's more so due to Alfa being notorious for sticking big engines in tiny engine bays, the Brera and 159s engine bays really weren't made for a 3.2 v6 which made servicing a little more expensive than you'd like

[@alfisti93]

@@mattpaul3343 The 159 platform was developed for all kinds of engines - especially V6. The real problem is the 2.2 i4 and 3.2 V6 from GM, which are supposedly designed to be low maintainance but really aren't. With direct injection, clogging intakes and, sometimes, failing chains...

[@1240enzo]

I have owned over the past 6 Alfa’s over the past 44 years, asides other cars and all i can say is that each one was special to own and this idiotic nonsense perpetuated by ill informed supposed motoring journalists is purile nonsense. My Alfa’s were no less reliable than any other car I have owned or those by members of my family. It’s long overdue that supposed journalists and motoring bloggers stopped spreading such misinformation. The new Giulia is on par if not way better than most modern cars out there on the market place. I just can’t afford one, yet.

[@thewedge8823]

I just have the base model one, the Ti Sport!! and I love it. what a car. can't imagine what the QV feels like to drive. must be a rocket.

[@fredsalfa]

I’ve had 8 Alfa’s over the last 30 years and they have all been solid reliable cars in Australia anyway. Also interesting to note the Giulia QV is the first time in living memory it has been a class leader ahead of the Germans. Of course the Alfa Romeo brand used to be the supercar brand in the 30s or so on par with Bugatti etc. So maybe the first time since then the Giulia QV has done well. Again shame it will be discontinued. Don’t know what Alfa need to do to make cars that people keep wanting like the Germans…

[@ThisIsDaxter]

A truly magnificent car. 5 Years later and I still find myself lusting after one. One day... One day.

[@rogerpreece7762]

Just get one... You will never regret it

[@GamezGuru1]

even though it already looks massively dated? 15yr old BMWs look more modern than this thing...

[@rogerpreece7762]

@@GamezGuru1 Are you being serious??? You and Jeremy Clarkson must be the only two people on the planet who don,t think the QF is utterly gorgeous.......... and the new Beemers are just pug ugly.

[@rogerpreece7762]

Just do it ! You will never regret it

[@GamezGuru1]

@@rogerpreece7762 I agree bimmers are hideous. I actually thought Clarkson was very fond of this car, I just think its curvy, bulbous styling aged really badly... And the wheels always look too small

[@anthonyknox1493]

I know what you mean about the interiors. A lot of modern car interiors seem to be uninspiring 'black holes', they need more colour and texture; like the Brera's wrap-around aluminium console, more tan leather, and brigher dials/displays.

[@GoldenCroc]

If by modern cars you mean anything made after 1970 or so.... because I wouldnt say most cars made 1970-2000 were anything but pure black in the areas you describe. Look at the (these days) coveted -90s japanese sports cars interiors.. almost everything made today even econoboxes are more cheerful.

[@per-hakansvahn8044]

My ownership of a 2017 Giulia from new has been absolutely flawless. Zero issues. And: It’s the kind of car you find yourself all sorts of excuses just to take it for a drive.

[@2steaksandwiches665]

I’m ready to take mine on a 700 mile road trip starting tomorrow. Three years old. 15,000 miles on it already. Fantastically reliable and the seats are very comfortable.

[@hagenkleemann7309]

Maybe you're right about the Mito. And maybe your personal experience with one or more Giuliettas were bad. But concerning reliability from a statistical point of view the Giulietta is in a completely different (better) league compared to the Mito. Even German car journalists admit that, which is high praise, given their bias. Yes some (by far not all) interior materials are cheaper than in a Golf. But knobs don't fall off, even in long run examples. What remains subjective: I think from an aesthetic's perspective they made the most of it with the Giulietta. It is a very special place to be, compared to it's rivals.

[@665Thunder]

I've owned a giulietta for 7 years, sold it with 100k miles and 11.5 years of age, and it looked and performed just like when I bought it. No mechanical issues whatsoever, I've only had to change the gear knob cover (paid 12 bucks at the dealer), weld 1 trunk door cable, change the tray on the dashboard (broken spring, removed by undoing 2 screws, new part for 70 bucks at the dealership, delivered in 48h in Switzerland). Suddently it seems like claiming Alfas are unreliable is deemed as a proof of automotive knowledge, with no fundaments in real life. Giulias and stelvio are rock solid, most issues reported are related to weak batteries.

[@iMANTlS]

Alfa is currently underestimated just because it lacks glossy features like excessive infotainment features and excessive silver-covered plastic everywhere, which are usually the tricks to fool people into thinking they got value for what they are spending.

[@comeberza]

Check the mercedes MBUX augmented reality, the most EXTREME gimmick I've seen. They literally fool people with a direction reinventing that nobody asked for to display it of the screens and the day after buying the car you are using android auto and won't ever remember the feature

[@johnphaceas7434]

I simply do not understand how much car reviewers generally drone on about infotainment systems, cupholders, satnav, driver aids, etc. If any of those things are touted as key features of a car, I know the car itself is a pile of toss that I will have zero interest in. Personally I love the fact that my two Alfas (Alfetta GTV and 156 V6) have none of those things. The infotainment system in both is under my right foot, and you open/close the window to moderate the volume.

[@bourisb24yearsago11]

Exactly lol. Shitty displays that could get you killed. From distracting you spending 10 minutes to change the temperature of the ac. Buttons are way better.

[@cfzcfz]

I dont know how you're calling the Giulietta tragically unreliable

[@hamzah3138]

He read something last century and still believes it

[@edwardkarran4963]

@Jayemm I believe he owned one for a while and it was brutal.

[@Domsonthecase]

I think he's passing off personal experience as fact. I don't blame him, the notion that Alfa's are unreliable still persists for some reason. I've had my Giulietta for 4 years and had very minor bits done every year costing about £200, as well as 4 new tyres in that time and a new battery. Hardly unreliable. I'm guessing he just bought a lemon.

[@coltr7561]

@MJB 112 Subaru or Nissan 300 twin turbo, there are many

[@mihailhidler5400]

Because In England you are forced by law to use exaggerated adjectives

[@dorstefan]

The Alfa Romeo that every petrol head wanted and that only a few bought it.

[@Supraboyes]

Whos going to miss the noise of a beautiful engine, when we're all forced to buy a ev.

[@oTNTo]

1700kg is with you JayEmm :)

[@RixisLV]

Well, if my memory serves me right then at some point was recognised as one of most reliable cars at the time. In the UK.. Jimmy, what made You think that Giulietta is so unreliable car?

[@hamzah3138]

He didn't do any research, just asked the bloke down the pub

[@Rhowhat]

I thought the early cars were notoriously unreliable due to the rush to market. If true I imagine that cars made later in the lifecycle were far more sorted. I remember hearing horror stories on forums when these were first being delivered.

[@AntoniusTyas]

Uhhhh he used to run one? With knocking suspensions after being picked up?

[@varmastiko2908]

Jay's mother had a Giulietta QV and it had a lot of issues. Fortunately the model is, in general, very durable and more reliable than most cars on the road. Alfa has been scoring high on German inspection reports for a few years now, including the Giulietta. What's more important is that the engines and gearboxes generally hold up well on Giulia and Giulietta. If we compare to German brands, there may be slightly fewer issues overall on them, but when there IS an issue, it may be the whole engine or gearbox that needs replacing. Catastrophic failures are far too common with many German brands today. I'm a 20+ year professional in the automotive field and for my own money I would be fine buying an Alfa from the last 10 year period. BMW or Audi? No, not brave enough to gamble with those brands.

[@Luch_D]

Hi Jay, you want to have a go in a Stelvio Quad, unbelievable for an SUV and all wheel drive so puts the power down with ease, they sound better than the Giulia as well (despite being the same engine)

[@ohhyesitsonlyme]

Yep! I drive a Misano Blue Stelvio QF, and love it! Takes off like s**t of a shovel, and surprises so many, and lots of positive comments about how stylish she is compared to the German comparable!

[@amospizzey1]

100% agreed . I’ve had a lot of serious cars ( Ferrari / Porsche / Aston etc ) and a bunch of Range rovers for family . The stelvio QV is one of the best cars I’ve ever owned , Stunning all round daily ⚡️❤️⭐️

[@Luch_D]

@@amospizzey1 yep, I’ve just bought one over the past month coming having previously owned M cars, massively impressed with the Stelvio, sounds unreal as well

[@ondrejjarolim4589]

The ending shot of the video is just mind blowing. The timing of that vicious pop is really on point.

[@Stax62]

This is still my dream car, i think its the most beautiful car ever made. I want to own one of these so badly, hopefully one day they'll depreciate enough lol

[@nickgallucci8117]

You Can Thank The Sergio Marchionne Family For Bringing Back The ALFA . Italian-Canadian businessman Who Became A Legend In The Industry ... Ferrari Big Boss...He Was Loved & Feared Because He Governed Like A Gangster ... i also Had The Good Fortune Of Meeting Him Several Times & Talking PetroHead News At Our Local Italian Cafe Shop In WoodBridge Canada ... i Also Think His Passing Is Very Shady How It All Went Down ... Thanks For Sharing Jay ... Cheers

[@miks564]

Giulia is not the only fruit from the Giorgio platform. At the time of this review, you had also the Stelvio ...and also the Maserati Grecale in the making. The Continental fly-by-wire breaks are easy to operate, hard or soft when one gets used to them, as every owner eventually does. Maybe because these are one of the first versions of fly-by-wire brakes, they operate based on the pedal position, not so much by the applied force. But it's very easy to get used to them.

[@varmastiko2908]

I just test drove a Giulia and was expecting the brakes to be difficult, but they weren't. Some conventional brakes have been more challenging to use. No issues. Only worry is if the system malfunctions then the fail-safe system requires a lot of pedal pressure allegedly, so this is something we should be aware of.

[@miks564]

@@varmastiko2908 The system is from the Germans (Continental). If it happens they’re the guilty part, attempting to trash the Italian competitors. 😁😁

[@smilepermile8165]

I wanted my dad to get this car but living in Tokyo with its narrow streets with low speed limits, the brakes would make it pretty hard to drive this car smoothly - unless it's a matter of learning how to smoothly apply them. Italian cars usually sound a lot better than their rivals from other countries but something about twin-turbo V6s in general don't do it for me. I can't think of one that actually sounds pleasant. Having said all this, I'm really happy too that we live in an era that Alfa Romeo made a fun car. I like its low seating position and its aluminium paddles. Many journalists report that the manual transmission Giulia QVs are nothing to write home about, but I'm curious to see what James thinks whenever a generous owner provides him with one in continental Europe.

[@saidalas8381]

why would you want your dad to drive a weird looking car?

[@smilepermile8165]

@@saidalas8381 That’s your own subjective opinion that only a minority agree with (and that I have the freedom to disagree with) and besides, I don’t purely judge a car by its aesthetics, I also see it on how fun and engaging it’s to drive, how the seating position is, how well it rides and how practical it is.

[@saidalas8381]

@@smilepermile8165 only a minority? how many bought the Giulia again fanboy? You got it backwards. People WHO LIKE how this car looks are a minority.

[@smilepermile8165]

@@saidalas8381 Oh wow name-calling me for appreciating a car that you happen to disagree with, when I have never insulted you in my reply? Sound like a keyboard warrior with a depressing life, having to vent your emotions online lol. What if I told you that I liked the RX-7 FD Spirit R, M3 CSL, S2000, R34 Vspecii Nür, GT3 Touring, V12 Vantages, Subaru 22B, Singer 911s and 993s? Still gonna call me a fanboy? The Giulia is nothing compared to the monstrosity that BMW are producing with their current design.

[@iantaylor4294]

@@saidalas8381 Hey Karen, did he touch your nerve to get you so butthurt? Why is there a need to be so hostile by using the pathetic straw-man-argument to call him a 'fanboy', when it is ultimately a subtle subjective opinion he made? You're triggered and implying that its 'illegal' to appreciate a particular car that you happen to dislike.

[@kevind2760]

Do your homework. Since 2018 they are as reliable as other European performance cars. I own three 911's including two GT3's. Owned several Ferraris, including a Challenge Stradale. AMGs, M-cars, you name it. My QV trumps everything I've owned ever. Mine is a 2018 and I want to replace it just so I have the newest I can before they are gone. It makes me laugh, and smile, and feel like I'm so lucky.

[@M.Maghraby]

Come on James, it's simply one of the most beautiful stunning sedans ever made.

[@MrSlubbo]

Well... the giorio platoform is also used in the stelvio :)

[@aHumanCookiee]

The Giulietta was rated as one of the most reliable cars in the country so I don't know what you are on about, you must've had a lemon, as you could of from any carmaker. As many others can attest to, I owned a Giulietta cloverleaf for 2 years and it was the most reliable car I have ever owned. Yes interior plastics were a bit low rent for a C-Segment car, but I would rather have some scratchy plastics and own a beautiful Alfa than drive around in some crummy impractical letterbox like a BMW 1 series, that's a real compromised car. I have been in 2 nearly new examples and experienced little to no room inside, little to no visibility and a self destructing rear windscreen, not exactly a winner.

[@23Piccolina]

Best looking sedan for sale today.

[@markreynolds8449]

Epic car, no reliability issues and easily a future classic. Honestly, the same old trope of reliability is just so out of date now. Yes I’m biased because I have had a succession of Alfas, but frankly, if they were as bad as they are being suggested here, I would be long since joining the German Uber saloon clone masses, whereas I love the jealous looks that I get in mine….you can see them just trying not to stare. And the brakes? Never felt difficult to use at all through my ownership.

[@Food_n_Driver365]

It’s an Alfa Romeo, of course it’s special! Mine has been pretty rock solid reliable and couldn’t be happier.

[@alphabetaxenonzzzcat]

I didn't know about the "brake by wire" feature. I think the biggest bugbear with this car, is that annoying indicator selector function on it(like in old BMWs). It's still a very exciting car though.

[@hamzah3138]

Still regurgitating the old reliability stories that you heard in the last century. Come on, you're a bright guy, you can do better. Your comment on the AR dealers is absolutely spot on.

[@stevefarnworth]

Alfa really hitting hard - one of the mid-roll ads was for a new QV. Got my eyes on Veloces, but secretly hoping the QVs depreciate more!

[@sun_of_a_gun]

I am happy to disagree with so many statements mentioned in this video.

[@lazios]

Giulietta and Mito were unreliable? I have never heard this criticism in Italy, almost all were on the fact that were NOT more true Alfa Romeo, were small, ugly and front-wheel drive, but never about unreliability. Maybe Alfa send other cars abroad? Or a lot of people say bullshit? 🤔 Who knows why these criticisms always come from the GB or the US, ie the last countries that can talking about cars reliability (it would be as if I thought I spoke good English ... no, I don't speak English sorry).

[@NOrlando952]

I have only really heard of big reliability issues with the QVS, the 4pots have been pretty good.

[@deanlewis1237]

I bought a veloce and I love it, just wish I could have afforded the qv! One day maybe 🤔

[@AP-cc1uw]

I just replaced an E91 328xi so the bar was set high for handling and steering feel. After testing the M340i, C43 and S5 Sportback I went with a '23 Giulia Estrema. No Alfa does not offer an "in-between" performance engine to fill the gap between the base 2.0T and the 2.9 V6 but based on chassis, steering, handling and sheer beauty and uniqueness of the car I was willing to sacrifice some straight line performance and sound. I do not regret it. It's a gorgeous car, it feels special, and it's far more engaging than the Germans. There is nothing comparable out there if you really enjoy driving having something a little more special than everything else. 0-60 times are meaningless if you feel nothing in a corner.

[@F1Oversteer]

Put into Racemode Jay and you would be complaining it is too hard. I fell in love with this car's magic

[@TheTerrier]

Nice to see you took full advantage of the epic summer we had in Glasgow Jay 🤠

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Naturally

[@JordanRedlinRacing]

I own a fully optioned one with the CCB package, and the review he's provided is pretty spot on. Awesome car! Small reliability problems that take the dealer absolutely forever for fix.... I was down 4 months for a vacuum line.

[@kazekai8]

Stainless steel brake line, Girodisk floating brake front and back, and Porterfield brake pads will sort the braking shortcoming. Supersprint exhaust downpipe with a catback will fix the sound nerfing. KW suspension will tighten the body and allow the car to corner like how it should with minimal roll.

[@simonrb1942]

I appreciate this might be unpopular but I would love to see this as an estate/wagon.

[@Mexxx65]

Coupe...coupe

[@jameswright1864]

100% love to see a estate version

[@GoldenCroc]

Sure, but how many clould they sell? Probably would be unpopular in the most literal sense.

[@simonrb1942]

@@GoldenCroc dont know. The RS4 and C63 sell. I wasnt suggesting its a viable business option, just that id like to see it. And Alfa have done them previously.

[@GoldenCroc]

@@simonrb1942 Who wouldnt, just thinking about the market. Dont know if the RS4 and C63 sell all that much really, are they a money making prospect or are they just "halo" sort of cars?

[@stepchia90]

All those “reliability” issues you keep talking about in your video are actually not backed up at all! Had few of the models you mentioned from the past: 159, Giulietta, etc. Always changed the car just because of age and need of a new car, and drove about 35000mi/y with each of them. Only drawback were some interior finishing, as you said, the Germans look more polished in their premium brands, but at a higher price

[@m1keyw]

Surprising to hear your comments about the engine as I've always found mine very responsive indeed! Also there are a couple of well known options to allow you to open the exhaust values independently (in any driving mode). Very pleased with mine but agree about the brake pedal feel, it's difficult to modulate at slow speeds but believe its actually due to the gearbox not the brakes. If you select netural (pull both paddles) while coming to a stop then it's not an issue.

[@johncreedon7847]

The quadrifoglio is bullet proof. We'll my 2019 one is anyway. Early 2017 cars may have had software issues but that was sorted. Ultimately this is a properly amazing and well engineered car. Ferrari power train, zf geao. Its solid. Also the brakes are amazing.

[@rlsedition]

How do you know the current Giulia is "the last one"?

[@babic12009]

where the hell did you find Guilietta as non reliable? Its rated far higher than 1 series and Aclass for instance in reliablity in Switzerland.

[@jayasea4027]

Great review, im subscribing.....oh and im buying one!!

[@2steaksandwiches665]

You’re incorrect. The Alfa Romeo uses its own infotainment system. It has nothing to do with the Chrysler system. It is not U connect.

[@thijss1272]

it always suprises me how someone with so little knowledge about cars has this much subs.. saying alfa romeo isn't reliable is just bullshit

[@greensamurai5805]

alfa romeo is so underrated in terms of sales :(

[@garyleibitzke4166]

I actually test drove one and it was a blast. The reputation for almost always being broken scared me off though.

[@DiscoveryLegend]

I have a 2019 in 2023. God what an amazing amazing amazing vehicle!

[@StigsCanadianCousin]

You had me until the 4C comments - only UK and a few Euro reviewers panned it. Even some of those (cough cough Chris Harris) started out loving that car. Of course, you could be excused for not being able to form an opinion on your own ;-) Georgio platform Giulia is definitely a defining moment for the brand though.

[@janstaes2172]

lets hope the stelantis group gives alfa romeo a sporting chance of regaining itself. hope that the electrification of the alfa brand will be a succes. else this once great brand will be no more soon

[@LilleyAdam]

That signature V6 noise of an unending whoopee cushion.

[@matthewking5612]

Have particulate filters robbed some of the sound?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Almost certainly

[@raggedrascal5463]

The data doesnt back up your claims about Giulietta reliability. The consensus from current owners is that they are generally solid and dependable with good residuals.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

In my Giulietta video I found several owners surveys which place the car fairly low

[@raggedrascal5463]

@@JayEmmOnCars, and others contradict your stated opinion. Cherry-picking information to suit your narative is disingenuous. Do some Giuliettes suffer faults? Absolutely. Find me a car that doesn't.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@raggedrascal5463 you cannot say "there isn't data to prove your point" and then when presented with independently collected data that does prove said point go "no, not that data, only the one which corroborates my viewpoint is acceptable"

[@raggedrascal5463]

@@JayEmmOnCars You didn't actually present any data. You told us it exists and expect viewers to accept that. From the Merriam-Webster dictionary : Consensus - the judgment arrived at by most of those concerned At no point did I suggest that all owners have had entirely positive experiences with the Giulietta. However, matter of minutes on Google reveals a cross-section of surveys show an overall positive owner experience. Definitely some less than positive, but also some which have been faultless. The general consensus from what I've found across numerous surveys suggests that Giulietta reliability is pretty much average. So not "chronic" unreliability as you suggest.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@raggedrascal5463 the evidence was in the video about the Giulietta.

[@scotthastings8845]

I’ve just driven one today. It’s the fastest car I’ve had the opportunity to drive and my god was it’s entertaining. I’ve never been so excited (while being extremely intimidated due to the damp weather and summer tyres fitted) by a car before. If I was set on leaving the car standard performance wise I’d see absolutely no reason to buy an M3 over it.

[@steriledial]

What a boring review for an exceptional car. Confirming old stereotypes from the 80’s.

[@longbowdt]

If only I had the nerve to overcome my concern about the poor reputation local dealerships have...But I do like that port fuel injection was added to the engine. One less worry down the road? I like to think I buy a car for the driving experience. I think the car is well built enough that I might risk a used one with complete service records. Hell's bells, my mk6 Golf-R can't do 30 mpg on a highway cruise.

[@rogerpreece7762]

Just but one... they are utterly brilliant.... But use specialist Independent Garages who know what they are doing rather than main Dealers

[@ExLondoner]

I also have the valves open on all modes, no need for an OBD device, for under a fiver it took me about 30 mins, fully reversible.

[@Matt-go7ss]

In other reviews they've said you can have the driving modes and exhausts in any mode you want.....

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Maybe in other markets?

[@Matt-go7ss]

@@JayEmmOnCars 🤔 actually you may well be right as I'm watching this review on holiday from Turkey using a VPN...

[@angusadams1244]

You can pull a fuse to keep the exhaust open. My mates dad did it to his car and it was epic for a stock exhaust!

[@kurtbarker3303]

@@angusadams1244 or two non return valves. That’s what I did!

[@samcapuana6017]

For a moment I thought I was watching a video out of the 80’s but all it showed was how little you actually know about the car. Your constant reference to reliability is just wrong, maybe from the days of the Alfa sud but seriously that was 35 years ago. The Quadrifolgio is all about performance, it’s balanced, has power 500+hp, drives like it’s on rails and yes reliable. I have owned the car for 4 years and been brilliant and reliable. If you want bells and whistles buy a German car, if your looking for performance and drivers car than buy an Alfa. Poor content that added zero value.

[@sotirisbakaimis3276]

Yes she is....very speciale!!!

[@NicostacksBundles]

Jay any chance of doing a review on 2007-2009 Cls 63 amg? I'm eyeing one here in miami to add to the garage. Not that many out here in good condition and low miles left!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I will if I can, tought to find though!

[@saidalas8381]

@@JayEmmOnCars this Alfa is weird looking

[@richardhargrave6082]

OK, we get it, you don't like Alfas Same old reliability myths (except the probably the Mito) The Georgio is not being totally canned, its being developed as a platform within Stellantis as the Giorgio Evo/STLA Large EV platform, forced on the industry by the change to Hybrid and EVs. The reliability of Alfas is now excellent, better than the so called reliable German opposition.

[@dhmallet]

I have a US version 2017 2.0 and I absolutely love it. The only reason it has needed service was a sunroof problem, fixed under warranty. My car has 26,000 miles. FAA/PSA is the biggest problem, in my opinion. After a clean sheet design, built in a new factory, it is being dumped to push the Peugeot hybrids. Peugeot has had no presence here since the 90s so they are just killing it off because it is not a Jeep or Ram. I would not bet on future Maseratis here either.

[@thomass3769]

Gulia is lovely. Wonderful steering feel and great V6. Nice video

[@jamesmartinwyatt]

I don't know where that very high weight figure came from, but I suspect the earlier cars (up to mid 2018) were a fair bit lighter - though nowhere near Alfa's claim which was always a dry weight. By the time a 5th seatbelt, heated/electric seats, steel roof, thicker glass, additional injection system (port injection came on top of DI not instead of), and more tech had been added, they had to weigh more. Especially given that for a time around 2018 the much lighter technico alloys were standard not optional (I have a set of each alloys and the difference is huge and obvious just moving them around). Potentially, the less extras on these, the better...

[@richardjones2468]

Can you please through either poor research or just plain prejudice drop the "Alfas are unreliable" myth. As a former Euro garage proprietor, here in Christchurch New Zealand, and co -owner of 13 classic cars I can say my experience has been quite the opposite. I have also owned just about every worthwhile brand you can mention and currently run the Christchurch branch of RentAClassic with BMW, Jaguar, Lexus, MGB`s, Alfas (156`s, 166`s, 916 Spiders, 105 Spiders) Mercedes, and Saab`s. The old MGB`s and the Alfas are the most reliable cars we have with the less spend on maintenance we experience. Reports here from the new car franchise holders of Alfa ( they are usually a multi franchise over here) is that the cars are extremely reliable and certainly the local used car trade love them seeing them as better than most as far as trouble goes. many coincidently are very wary of the German opposition, and Honda and Nissan.

[@ohhyesitsonlyme]

The Guilia is not the only fruit of thebGiorgio platform. The Stelvio is as well and the Quadrifoglio is equally phenomenal to drive!

[@coltr7561]

and the upcoming Maserati Grecale , and the new Stellantins STLA platfrom is said to be also using this.

[@arisaga822]

I know the Giulietta is widely considered crap - but I still love mine.

[@coltr7561]

its been very reliable in latest studies,

[@cfzcfz]

It's absolutely not considered that at all. It's a great car.

[@JDSFLA]

From its introduction I have always been intrigued with this car, but thoughts of reliability, depreciation, limited dealer network (I am in the U.S.) always held me off. If I was buying now it would be the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing which checks all the aforementioned boxes and offers a 6-speed manual. I have been driving my Chevy SS with 6-speed manual (Holden Commodore/Vauxhal VXR) since 2017 and trouble free.

[@apostolostvable]

I own the Giulia Veloce (also here in the US). The car is incredible. While I don't have the 2.9L engine, I have all the underpinnings, including wheel, suspension and performance package. The AWD system is intuitive and not at all intrusive unless you drive like an idiot. As others have said, the chassis is fantastic as is the steering/handling. Despite being electrically-powered steering, it is communicative with the road. And mine so far (3.5 years in) has been perfectly reliable, with no issues to speak of.

[@kaiseranonymous]

Hard to beat the reliability of a N/A LS3 without DOD paired to a TR6060, and a relatively simple suspension system (minus the mag ride shocks). I'd upgrade to an SS but hard to stomach the cost difference from my G8 for basically an interior upgrade.

[@mikadavies660]

An Alfa "worthy of the name".... Love the way he is not ashamed to call something plastic or unreliable... Manufactures need to know where they stand and if their product is actually good or not.