Alfa confirms three-variant Stelvio SUV range

ALFA Romeo has revealed its new Stelvio SUV will launch in Australia with four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines in the first quarter of next year, to be joined later by the fire-breathing 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 Quadrifoglio range-topper.

Buyers will have the choice of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine or a 2.2-litre turbo diesel at launch, with all variants employing Alfa’s Q4 all-wheel-drive architecture, foregoing the rear-drive set-up of entry-level variants in other markets.

Both four-pot engines are constructed entirely from aluminium, with the petrol borrowed from the entry-level Giulia mid-size sedan developing 149kW and 330Nm, capable of sending the Stelvio from zero to 100km in 7.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 215km/h.

The 2.2-litre diesel is the first all-aluminium oil-burner among Alfa’s new-generation range of engines, and while its 450Nm torque figure is the same as the Giulia Super Diesel, power has increased by 24kW to 156kW.

It features Alfa’s latest MutliJet II fuel injection system and an electrically operated variable geometry turbocharger, and can propel the Stelvio to the landmark three figures in 7.6s on to a 210km/h top speed.

All variants will employ an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-biased all-wheel drive, which can also send up to 60 per cent of torque to the front axle.

Safety features include autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, rearview camera, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Two optional packages will be offered at launch, giving the Stelvio either a more sporty or luxurious feel.

The Super ‘Lusso’ package adds Pieno Fiore leather upholstery, heated luxury steering wheel and walnut wax accents throughout the cabin.

Bringing a sportier touch is the Veloce package, which includes sports leather seats, sport steering wheel, aluminium pedals and interior trim, and red brake callipers.

Some time after the Stelvio’s launch in early 2018, the range will be bolstered by the addition of the top-spec Quadrifoglio variant, which employs the same 375kW/600Nm 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 as the flagship Giulia QV.

The Quadrifogio’s output will rival that of the beastly Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S, which will launch in December priced from $164,900 with a 375kW/700Nm 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 under the hood.

While Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Australia hasn’t detailed sales targets or the expected variant mix, the best-selling Giulia models have been the performance-oriented versions, suggesting the Stelvio could head in the same direction.

Pricing has yet to be revealed, however FCA Australia will be looking to keep it competitive against the likes of the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, all of which start from around $65,000 plus on-roads.

FCA Australia CEO Steve Zanlunghi said the Stelvio will appeal to SUV buyers looking for an engaging driving experience.

“The all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio, named after one of the world’s great driving roads – Italy’s Stelvio Pass – will set a new benchmark for the segment in Australia,” he said.

“Alfa Romeo’s blend of expert engineering and emotion creates a premium mid-size SUV for true driving enthusiasts, and one that will stand out in one of the largest and fastest-growing segments in Australia.

“Having already wowed the automotive world with the unveiling of the stunning Quadrifoglio at the Los Angeles Auto Show, we’re thrilled to now confirm new additions the Stelvio range.”

More information on the Stelvio, including pricing and in-depth specification, will be announced closer to its launch.