The handsome profile Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta
ALFA Romeo’s Giulietta has been about for six years and the model has had two minor facelifts since it made its debut.
However, you would have to look quite hard to spot the differences.
The Italian company has always built pretty cars but Alfas did not always enjoy a reputation for reliability.
In recent times the firm has worked hard to improve the quality of its products and this is now making them a choice you can make with your head as well as your heart.
The Giulietta has made a significant contribution to the cause and it is a sharp looking car that makes most other family hatchbacks look bland.
It certainly has a visual impact thanks to its new headlights, trademark grille and offset front number plate. It is just as handsome in profile or from the rear and it looks more expensive than it is.
Inside, the changes are just as subtle, with a few improvements to materials and the addition of a Uconnect infotainment system. This lets you pair your smartphone to use apps like music streaming and social media.
The cabin doesn’t feel as upmarket as the BMW 1 series or Audi A3, but it has Italian flair and some neat touches even although some of the plastics are rather scratchy.
Four adults can travel in comfort although there is not as much room in the rear as some of its more modern competitors.
The Sprint model tested offers lots of spec including tinted windows, fog lights, side skirts, immobiliser alarm system, cloth and alcantara upholstery, Bluetooth, steering wheel controls, Alfa DNA, a DAB radio and the touchscreen infotainment system.
Fitted with the 1.4 MultiAir 150bhp engine, the Sprint has a nice soundtrack and is good for a top speed of 130mph and reaches 62mph in 8.2 seconds.
The steering feels fairly direct and responsive and combines with the agile handling to give this family hatch sporting appeal.
The claimed economy for this model is 49.6mpg with emissions of 131g/km.
All models get the DNA system which enables the driver to select from three driving modes. You can choose All Weather, Natural or Dynamic to suit your mood or the road conditions.