Alfa SUV worth waiting for

WE just can’t get enough of SUVs. Hardly a week goes by without a new one appearing.

There is a huge range of models and prices ranging from a bargain basement Dacia Duster to a Rolls Royce Cullinan which is for your local gazillionaire. Some are aimed at families, others are aimed at the utility end of the market, and some are aimed fair and square at folk who like a bit of fun in their SUV.

And that is precisely where the Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes in.

It’s different and it is hugely rewarding to drive.

Obviously, being an Alfa, it will have sporting flair as part of its DNA but it is also extremely comfortable, practical, well equipped and if you compare like for like with other models, the starting price of £36,990 is actually decent value.

It’s also worth pointing out that Alfa Romeo has shown serious confidence in the quality of the Stelvio (Giulia and Giulietta too) by giving it a five-year/75,000 mile warranty, five years roadside assistance and three years free servicing which includes labour, parts and any lubricants.

In terms of power, you can opt for petrol or diesel. The 2.0 turbo petrol engine is available with either 200hp or 280hp, while the 2.2 turbo diesel is available with 190hp or 210hp. All come with 4-wheel drive and an 8-speed auto ‘box, although you can get the lower-powered diesel model with rear drive only… but what’s the point?

If you want to go crazy, you could always opt for the 2.9 litre V6 petrol turbo 510hp Quadrifoglio model which manages 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds. Wow.

If you want economy, go for the rear wheel drive 190hp diesel model and you’ll crack 50mpg. If you want refinement go for the petrol engines, but we like the 210hp diesel unit because you get a blend of economy and performance, and there’s AWD. You still won’t be far away from 50mpg, but you’ll have a 0-60 time of around 6.5 seconds. Sounds good too.

There are just two levels of trim outside of the Quadrifoglio; Super or Milano Edizione. The Super trim will be fine for most people because it comes with sat nav which includes European mapping, air con, leather upholstery, DAB radio, front and rear parking sensors, powered tailgate, tyre pressure monitor etc. It’s fully loaded. There is also a seriously premium feel to the interior quality.

Alfa Romeo were late arrivals at the SUV party. The Stelvio was well worth waiting for.