It’s not quite what you would expect from an Alfa Romeo nor what you expect from an SUV, yet it someone manages to be better than both of those things. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a luxury crossover SUV manufactured by Alfa Romeo. It has been receiving a lot of praise and high reviews as of late, and for good reason. It’s stylish, safe, and very practical. Perhaps the first time this manufacturer has received this much praise since it released the Matta back in the 1950’s.

Yes it’s an SUV, but it’s all Alfa Romeo

Named after the famous mountain pass in Northern Italy, the Stelvio is designed as a high-end, premium vehicle to compete with the likes of Porsche, Audi and Range Rover.  It’s clear to us that the manufacturer didn’t cut any corners or make any sacrifices to save a dollar, which is a great thing for the most part. It’s not simply labeled as a “luxury” vehicle. It really feels luxurious. From the lightweight aluminum to the carbon fiber prop shaft; the Stelvio barely weighs enough to register on the scales.

Rarely is there is a four-wheel-drive SUV that weighs so little. It’s only around 1659kg when it’s filled with fluids. The Jaguar F-Pace is one of the few luxury SUVs that can compete in terms of weight. Interestingly enough, both vehicles use primarily lightweight aluminum in their construction.

Don’t let the term “lightweight” fool you, though. This is a tough, rigid, and rugged sports utility vehicle. It’s not designed to compete with vehicles like the Land Rover with their terrain selections and off-road capabilities, but it’s tough enough to handle a bumpy ride.

Two Options Available

You have two options for your engine when you purchase a Stelvio. One option is the Petrol 2.0-litre Turbo. Not an entirely popular choice in the past, but it pairs very well with the Stelvio. It can push 296lb ft with 276bhp and reach speeds of 62 mph in only 5.7 seconds.

The second option is a 2.2-litre diesel engine that handles 347lb-ft with 207bhp. It can reach the 62 mph mark in about 6.6 seconds. This engine choice is still slightly more popular than the first option. It’s cleaner and more efficient.  It’s a bit noisy, but definitely worth it.

Both options provide an eight-speed automatic experience. Overall, the drive is very smooth in regards to the gearbox as long as you let it handle itself. However, it’s very tempting to push the paddles to the limit. That’s when you start to notice kicks with the full throttle upshifts and such. Luckily, you’ll only find problems like that if you’re really looking for them. For the most part, the ride is smooth and comfortable.

Modern Functionality, Classic Design

Of course, since this is a modern luxury vehicle, the inside is packed with sensors, lights, screens, and various other accessories that beep and boop. If you’re not a fan of those things, then you’ll have a hard time enjoying your rides. On the other hand, if you enjoy them, then there’s plenty in the Stelvio to keep you entertained.

There are sensors for braking, steering, reversing, and more. Any accessories or features that aren’t included in the standard model can likely be added as an option for a few extra bucks.

Even the appearance of the inside is enough to capture your attention for awhile. Especially when it’s your first time seeing it. There is beautiful interior trim, the seats look impressive, even the steering wheel has that “luxury” feel to it.

Upping the Luxury SUV Genre

There are a few other luxury SUVs on the market worth considering, but the Alfa Romeo Stelvio can easily compete with the best of them. It has definitely put Alfa Romeo back on the map as one of the leading manufacturers in the world. The Stelvio is stylish, full of features, lightweight, and surprisingly rugged. It looks good and drives even better.