In times gone by, colonial powers all took part in the scramble for Africa. This frenetic activity, it seems, has spilt over into what one may describe as the scramble for SUV market share. BERNARD HELLBERG SR, who still fondly remembers his Alfa Romeo Giulietta Ti from varsity days, takes an in-depth look at Alfa’s latest offering.
Under the guiding hand of newly appointed CEO Robin van Rensburg, Alfa Romeo SA has entered the medium-sized premium SUV market segment with two variants, Super and First Edition, both making use of a tried and tested two-litre turbo petrol engine.
With a history of making class-leading sports and racing cars, it will come as a surprise to many that Alfa Romeo had a brief foray into the world of AWD in the 1950s with a quaint, boxy creation dubbed the Matta, which was specifically designed for military applications. With its boxy looks (the term SUV had not been invented yet), and with some models featuring canvas roofs and windows, the Matta was light years removed from the Stelvio, a light (1,660 kg) SUV with – among other features unheard of at the time – a carbon fibre driveshaft.
WILL THE STELVIO FAKE IT OR MAKE IT?
In a cramped space where Germans, Koreans, Brits, and even the Indians have thrown their figurative hats into the ring, the Stelvio has veered slightly off-course by emphasising its performance heritage and capabilities.
Starting with the engines, which have achieved the magic output numbers of more than 100 kW/litre of engine capacity, the results are pleasing and excellent.
THE DRIVE
Combining the car’s light weight with, arguably, the most direct steering in this segment, we knew that we were in for a treat with the Alfa PR team confidently having selected the Franschhoek Pass between that town and Grabouw as the Stelvio’s playground for the day. The results were outstanding; acceleration was brisk, and the handling was confidence-inspiring – thanks to fully-independent double wishbone front suspension with sophisticated links for the rear. Patented by Alfa Romeo, this setup enabled the fairly high-bodied car (it stands 1.7 meters tall) with 200 mm of ground clearance, to perform like a sports car when driven with enthusiasm.
I, however, have preferred more ferocity from the brakes since the all-disc system could have done with either more boost, bigger discs or softer pad compounds.
The eight-speed automatic gearbox deserves praise; ratios are appropriately spaced, kick down is brisk, and gear changes are so smooth that they’re hardly noticeable. If you prefer, there are paddles behind the steering wheel for those drivers who feel the desire to be in control.
THE LOOKS
Clearly an SUV, the Stelvio nevertheless managed to retain that typical Alfa design in front. Big air intakes and still losing the struggle to find a decent place for the front number plate are typically Alfa design quirks, while the side view has a little bit of Porsche Panamera to it. Or is there some BMW X3 or Mitsubishi ASX to it?
The overall effect is neat and tidy, and will enhance the brand’s image – although visitors to game reserves may prefer to have more significant side windows.
SAFETY
The list of safety features is long and impressive. From the selection of top-grade Michelin Pilot tyres, to the integrated brake system, forward collision warning, and autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), the Stelvio is reassuringly safe. Other features include lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and active cruise control. The forward collision warning system uses a radar sensor and a windscreen-mounted camera, but if the driver does not respond in time, the AEB system can stop the car on its own at speeds of up to 65 km/h.
THE INTERIOR
Designed around the driver, the Stelvio interior is elegant and straightforward (slightly too dark for my taste, though) with virtually all the controls mounted on the steering wheel. The Super version features full leather seats available in three colours – black, brown, and red – and even the choice of a more luxurious steering wheel.
The Alfa Connect system features voice recognition, while the 8.8″ display is neatly integrated into the overall dashboard design.
Obviously, Bluetooth is standard, the sound system is sophisticated (the First Edition has ten speakers), while an optional Harman Kardon system may also be requested.
LAST WORD
Alfa Romeo SA has a mountain to climb in regaining buyer confidence. The 3-year/100,000 warranty and the 6-year/100,000 km maintenance plan, as well as three new flagship dealerships – for a total of 42 – may prove that the brand will regain significant market share. Engine size may be a problem, but the Stelvio has the potential to bring about a considerable turnaround in Alfa Romeo’s fortunes. Lurking in the background are the Range Rover Evoque (from R768,696), Lexus RX (from R907,700), and Volvo XC90 (from R932,124) – all strong contenders and possible alternatives.
Report by BERNARD HELLBERG SR | Images by ALFA ROMEO SA