Romance of Romeo
IF YOU are looking for Italian style coupled with moneysaving technology then Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta is the business. This edition of the eye-catching five-door hatchback is aimed squarely at the company car sector with the 1.6-litre diesel engine boasting emissions below the critical 100g/km mark – guaranteeing no road tax and a low benefit-in-kind rating – and claimed average fuel consumption in excess of 70mpg.
Having secured bragging rights for running costs, the Giulietta then turns to its other main strength – the gorgeous exterior.
It really is an eyeful, with the trademark Alfa shield grille and attractive daytime running lights giving the car an appealing face, while swooping lines, hidden rear door handles, neat back end and smart alloy wheels complete the look.
The cabin also sports classy design and good quality materials, including Competizione cloth upholstery, which gives a premium feel.
The seats are comfortable and give good support, while the leather-covered steering wheel oozes quality. There are a couple of bugbears, such as no foot rest for the driver’s clutch foot and pedals that are a bit close together, but in general up front this is a pleasant place to spend a journey.
There is space for three adults in the rear but things are a bit tighter when it comes to head and leg room, as the sleek exterior makes its presence felt inside the car.
There is no problem slotting the kids in, though, as there are Isofix mounting points provided for their car seats and access to the rear is good thanks to the wide-opening doors.
The Business Edition gets plenty of toys, with a 6.5-inch Uconnect central touch screen home to a satellite navigation system boasting preloaded 3D maps, Bluetooth, audio streaming, voice recognition, plus USB and SD reader.
Other goodies include cruise control, powered door mirrors, electric windows and, last but not least, parking sensors which help overcome limited rear visibility when attempting to slot into tight city centre spaces.
The dual-zone climate control – operated via rotary controls – ensures a pleasant atmosphere, while a decent-sized boot adds practicality to the mix with the hatchback lid lifting to reveal 350-litres of space expanding to 1,045 when the rear seats are folded.
That said, cubby hole space is at a premium with a small storage compartment in a central armrest – that is actually a bit awkward to rest an arm on – and a hidden space on top of the dashboard catering for your bits and bobs.
There are the usual suspects fitted when it comes to safety equipment, with the car securing a maximum fivestar rating, while the driver is warned when speed cameras are near – although the high-pitched beeps emitted to alert you of their presence are a bit of a chore. The Giulietta is decent to drive thanks to Alfa’s DNA system which allows you to choose from dynamic, natural and all weather modes.
Those of a sporty ilk will go for dynamic which heightens steering, suspension and engine responses, while natural is the most comfortable setting.