Born from the world's greatest driving road, Stelvio Pass, this Alfa Romeo shook things up in the mid-size crossover segment when it arrived for the 2018 model year. Known for its performance heritage, the five-passenger Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, built in Italy, does not disappoint.
For 2024 the Stelvio is available in five different models known as the Sprint, Ti, Veloce, Competizone, and Quadrifoglio. The first four models come standard with an all-aluminum 2.0L, direct-injection turbocharged engine delivering 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. I was fortunate to spend time in the performance oriented Quadrifoglio, which is rumored to be going away after 2024. From the moment I started the Stelvio Quadrifoglio I knew it was going to be another fun week in the Alfa. Instantly the Quadrifoglio exhaust sound lets people know there's something special under the hood of this crossover. It comes with a Ferrari derived twin-turbocharged V6 engine that nets 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque.
As the Stelvio rolls into 2024, other changes include a new limited-edition 100th Anniversary Stelvio Quadrifoglio model consisting of only 100 global units. Joining the lineup in Q2 will be the new Competizione model which focuses on luxury elements in the lineup. On the exterior, all Stelvios will feature new Trilobe LED adaptive matrix headlights, new taillights in glass with a transparent finish and a new V-Scudetto grille insert. Inside is an all-new digital instrument panel with the historic binocular theme displaying vehicle information, including advanced ADAS functionality and vehicle information pages.
With a price range swing of almost $50,000 be sure to visit www.alfaromeousa.com and use their build & price tool to configure one that suits your wants and make sure it also suits your wallet. Prices start at $45,950 for a 4x2 version of the Sprint or $47,950 for a Sprint AWD. At the other end of the spectrum is the Stelvio Quadrifoglio Carbon model that starts at $93,530. As tested, my Stelvio Quadrifoglio came in at $93,360 after some options like the Verde Montreal paint, dual-pane sunroof, and active assist plus package. Competition in this segment is always growing and features other models such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Genesis GV70, Lexus RX, Porsche Maycan, and Volvo XC60. Here's what stood out in the Stelvio Quadrifoglio that I spent a week with...
Performance (+)There is no denying that the Quadrifoglio is packed with power. With a 0-60 speed of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 176 miles per hour it's just a tad more exciting than most competitors. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes with standard all-wheel drive system. The Stelvio glides through all eight gears like butter. It handles like a sports car on the highway as you merge into traffic or during passing. There was no body roll as this crossover remained grounded to the pavement and took turns as if it was rounding the corner of a racetrack. Steering is precise and well-balanced in a point and shoot kind of way. The Stelvio goes exactly where you want it with ease. The suspension is firm in the Quadrifoglio as many sports cars are, but it can also be adjusted to better absorb the road when cruising around town or on the highway.
For added fun in the Stelvio, select manual mode and utilize the aluminum paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel with gear shifts in less than 100 milliseconds. These may be some of the largest paddle shifters I've seen on a vehicle and are ones I found extremely easy to get used to.
To further enhance the performance of the Stelvio, there are various drive modes that can be selected. Unique to Alfa Romeo is the 'DNA' designation for these modes which stand for dynamic, natural, and advanced efficiency. As a bonus in the Quadrifoglio there is also a RACE mode which provides a pitch perfect exhaust note that will turn heads as the car launches from a standstill. When in race mode, the Stelvio seems to have a boost of nitrous as you hit the gas pedal and fly past other drivers. With state-of-the-art torque performance technologies such as a torque vectoring rear differential, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio delivers precise steering and a thrilling driving experience. Throw in some raspy pops from the exhaust as you get going and the sounds match the performance. As easy as it is to get the Stelvio going, stopping is no problem either. The Quadrifoglio comes standard with Brembo High Performance 4-wheel disc brakes complete with calipers that have the Alfa Romeo name inscribed on them.
The rest of the Stelvio models feature an all-aluminum, 2.0-liter, direct-injection turbocharged engine with standard 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing it to launch from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds which is also impressive for the class.
Fuel Economy (-)When it arrived with a full 16.9-gallon tank it offered a driving range of around 340 miles.
As expected, an engine like this requires premium grade fuel and gets 17 MPG city / 23 MPG highway and a combined rating of 19 MPG. In my suburban driving for a week, I averaged 20 MPG.
Exterior (+)The exterior of the Stelvio hasn't changed much since it debuted, however there are some updates to the LED lighting this year. Like all Alfas, the front profile of the Stelvio is unmistakable and where (in my opinion) the style of this crossover shines. Starting with its prominent grille, this car looks ready to rumble. New LED adaptive matrix headlights flank the grille with an updated lighting signature. The profile resembles more of a beefed-up hot hatch than a crossover with a sloped rear C-pillar. Visibility from the inside is hindered slightly by this design which will require drivers to utilize the cameras and mirrors when backing into spaces. Around back the design is unassuming, and I think your average driver would think this is just another crossover. New taillights give it a fresh look during the day and at night. Look closely at the details and you'll notice the lower valance of the Quadrifoglio highlights the quad exhausts.
It's available in nine different colors ranging from standard white or black to more unique colors like the Moonlight Gray Matte finish, Missano Blue, or Verde Montreal. Alfa also has some of the best-looking wheel designs on the road. The Quadrifoglio came with 20" dark gray five-hole wheels wrapped in 255/45 Pirelli P Zero tires that give it the final touch to highlight its sportiness. Look for the 4-leaf clover badge on any Alfa as its designation for the Quadrifoglio performance model.
Interior (+/-)Hopping inside, drivers will face an all-new instrument panel with a 12.3" thin-film transistor screen with access to vehicle information. The cluster can be reconfigured into three layouts that include Evolve, Relax, and Heritage. Evolved represents the future of Alfa Romeo design and uses the central area of the screen, despite keeping its two lateral quadrants in place. Relax focuses on comfort, is free of detailed vehicle information, and goes without the two quadrants. Heritage is inspired by the brand's iconic 60s and 70s models, with distinctive details like inverted numbers at the end of the speedometer. The rest of the interior has a sporty vibe but falls short on the materials for its price tag. It's clear the investment is more focused on what's under the hood than in the cabin. The interior is not bad but utilizes more shared parts with other Stellantis vehicles that diminish the rest of its cool vibe. The layout itself is functional and driver centric. One thing that may take some acclimation is the placement of the push button start which is on the left side of the steering wheel. Otherwise, it's a comfortable cabin that does feel generally premium and sporty. And as a bonus, my test model came with the dual-pane sunroof with a nice-sized opening to let the warm temps in while cruising around Chicagoland.
Technology (+/-)Now standard on all Stelvios is an 8.8-inch center touchscreen with higher resolution graphics along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (cord is required). Alfa's infotainment system offers configurable widgets that can operate through the touch screen or via a jog dial in front of the gear shift knob. The system takes a little time to get used to, but once you learn how to navigate between screens such as the audio, climate controls, maps or vehicle performance specs, it's fairly intuitive. The screen feels small compared to others but is large enough to have good clarity.
Also updated inside the Stelvio is a new center console, leather wrapped gear shifter, and steering wheel that are more upscale than the first generation. Other enhancements include more storage capacity, upgraded bezel finishes, and an available wireless mobile phone charging pad. Placement of the wireless charging pod works well with a little pocket for the device in front of the gear selector. It holds the phone in place and charges appropriately. A nice touch is the inclusion of a volume knob at hands reach near the gear selector.
Seats (+)Hopping in the Stelvio Quadrifoglio driver's seat you'll be treated to standard leather in three colors (black, chocolate, or red). As a $3,500 upgraded option you can get Sparco leather and Alcantara race seats on the Quadrifoglio only. The seats seem to swallow you (in a good way) while offering good support and comfort. They are comfortable, but not overly cushy, which may affect comfort on longer drives. There is ample head, leg, and shoulder room up front. The driver centric layout creates a cockpit-like atmosphere for the driver and the 10 or 14-way power adjustable seats can be configured to best find a good seating position. As an added option for rear seat passengers, the Stelvio offers heated second row seats. Rear seats can accommodate three, but it would be a tight fit for average to larger size adults. Three kids, however, sat comfortably in the back seats. Overall seating accommodates up to five passengers.
Cargo Capacity (+ / -)Cargo capacity behind the second row is 18.5 cu. ft. which is smaller than some competitors. With the second row folded flat you'll get 56.5 cu. ft., which is still on the lower scale but it is enough for some luggage and golf clubs.
Safety / Driver Assist Features (+)Alfa Romeo has continually improved the Active Driver Assistance Package to include more standard features. Available on all Stelvios is highway assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist, active blind spot assist, driver attention alert, intelligent speed assist, and standard full-speed forward collision warning plus. The driver attention alert is an advanced algorithm that monitors the driver's attention and provides an alert in the form of a coffee cup that lights up on the dash. The forward collision warning plus uses audio and visual warnings to help alert drivers and will apply the brakes when necessary. The traffic sign recognition is also a great feature that will display the current speed limit within the driver information digital cluster display and as a bonus it may save you from a speeding ticket if you're cruising in race mode. The assist features all work well and tend to be on the more sensitive side compared to other models.
Final StatementWhen you opt for the Stelvio you get a bold style with a front end that will draw attention and you get a vehicle tuned for driving engagement. Focusing specifically on the Stelvio Quadrifoglio, it is at home in the suburbs as well as on the racetrack. This crossover is very photogenic with good proportions and an eye-catching style... the bright green Verde Montreal paint didn't hurt either.
First Impression Summary:
Test Vehicle: 2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio AWD
Exterior Color: Verde Montreal Tri-coat
Interior Color: Black Sport Leather
Options: Exterior Paint ($2,200), Dual-pane sunroof ($1,495), Active Assist Plus Package ($700)
MSRP as tested: $93,360 (With Delivery/Destination)