WORLD OF WHEELS
New Alfa Romeo impresses with advanced technology
THE new Alfa Romeo Giulia was launched earlier this month near Franschhoek in what was a memorable occasion. While the area has been used for new car launches before, it was a first time for World of Wheels to experience this Latin beauty on a private race circuit.
Johann Rupert’s L’Ormarins wine estate is home to his fabulous motor museum, which houses some of the world’s most historic cars as well as his own race circuit.
Rupert, reportedly estimated to be worth $5.5-billion (R699 671 500 000), has gained a reputation for collecting fine cars.
So it was fitting for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles South Africa to launch Alfa Romeo’s stunning D-Segment offering, the Giulia and Giulia QV, at the motor museum.
One of its halls were decked out with some of the collectable Alfas as a backdrop for the business session.
Such was the demand for the new Alfa Romeo Giulia that the first 46 orders for the Launch and Race Edition models were snapped up within three days of the order book opening at local dealerships.
The two models were sold for R1.4-million (for the Launch) and R1.6-million (Race Edition).
Based on the top-of-the-range Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde (QV) derivative, the limited edition Launch and Race Edition vehicles afford a unique and exclusive purchase experience well in advance of the rest of the range.
The Race Edition features carbon ceramic brakes offering fade-free braking under all driving conditions, as well as the unique tri-coat finish in mineral white or Alfa Romeo’s signature competizione red.
Giulia offers unique technology that makes it the benchmark for its segment.
The more sophisticated features include the integrated brake system (IBS) for considerably reduced braking distance and active suspension (QV) for exceptional comfort.
Also exclusive to the QV, the torque vectoring technology affords outstanding torque distribution between the rear wheels and the active aero splitter actively controls downforce at high speed as we were able to experience on the Rupert race circuit.
Four trim levels are available in the Giulia, coupled with the 2.0l turbo petrol engined versions.
Giulia heralds the debut of the new 2.0l petrol engine – a four-cylinder engine made entirely of aluminium – which generates 147kW at 5 000rpm and a maximum torque of 330Nm at 1 750rpm.
In addition to the MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve activation system, the particular features of this engine include the “2-in-1” turbocharger system and a 200-bar direct injection high pressure system which combine to deliver quick response to accelerator commands at all speeds while permitting highly efficient fuel consumption levels.
Of course the 2.0l four-cylinder petrol engine is simply a precursor to the mighty 2.9l V6 bi-turbo engine that powers the top-of-the-range QV version.
This unique engine is destined to become the new benchmark of the brand in terms of technology and performance.
Inspired by Ferrari technology and technical skills, the six-cylinder bi-turbo petrol engine is made entirely of aluminium to minimise the car’s absolute weight, especially on the front axle. It delivers 375kW and torque above 600Nm for exhilarating performance; top speed of 307km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in only 3.9 seconds and a maximum torque of 600Nm.
Despite the exceptional power and torque values, the 2.9l bi-turbo petrol engine is also best-in-class in terms of emission levels (189g/km of CO2), with the standard eight-speed automatic gearbox) and is surprisingly efficient to run, thanks to the electronically-controlled cylinder disabling system.
All Giulia models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and are powered by engines made in Italy.
The new Alfa Romeo Giulia will be available locally from dealerships with the 2.0l Base model starting at R555 000, the Super version will be available at R625 000 and the Super with Stile Pack will complete the range with a price of R695 000.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrafolio Verde will be available in limited numbers from R1.4-million.
All models come standard with a three-year/100 000km warranty and six-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
Alfa are back with a huge bang – drive one and you will be hooked!