It marks Alfa Romeo’s first-ever attempt at making a crossover SUV.
Alfa Romeo is at the center of a massive product producing next-generation cars. But to make things more complicated, Alpha is also in the middle of a restart in the US market. Thus, the hands of the company are quite full.
Some of the new models include the recent Giulia compact sedan and the 4C sports coupe and roadster. These cars helped create a new personality for the Alfa Romeo. But then, the company should focus on making a profit, which means that they have to make an SUV.
As we all know, crossover SUVs are huge breadwinners for automakers at almost all ends of the spectrum because of their popularity. Naturally, it only makes sense that Alfa Romeo captures part of the action.
Participation in one of the most sought-after market segments in the world increases the chances of long-term financial stability.
Speaking with AutoExpress, Alfa Romeo confirmed the discovery of an SUV called the Stelvio at the Los Angeles Auto Show in late November.
Stelvio’s tips first appeared over the past few months with various test mules and prototypes. You can see the curved line of the roof in the form of a compartment, complemented by bends that imitate Julia in various ways.
Alfa wants Stelvio to be the “best-in-class” driving application, which means that driving pleasure should be relatively high. Based on the Giulia Giorgio platform, Stelvio will have great potential, especially since the Quadrifoglio Verde version is under consideration.
Regular Stelvios will use the same range of gasoline and diesel four- and six-cylinder turbocharged engines as Giulia. The Quadrifoglio Verde, however, gets the same 2.9L twin-turbo V6 as Julia.
Alfa still has plans for a larger and smaller crossover than the Stelvio. This implies that the Stelvio needs to be more compact with competition from the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Lexus NX, to name just a few. Expect a launch somewhere in 2018 for others.
Fans of Alfa Romeo, hoping for alternative traffic options, will not be left without attention. Previous reports suggest that Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles is exploring hybrid and electric powertrains. This leaves room for some Stelvio hybrid or electric vehicles, especially when competitors from Tesla and Lexus fill the void.
-Jack Wilson