Road Test: 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti Sport AWD

Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of FCA Canada

Specifications:

Price: $53,340 (MSRP)

Engine: 2.0L turbocharged SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder

Trans: 8-speed turbo automatic

Power: 280 hp@ 5,200 rpm

Torque: 306 lb-ft @ 2,000 – 4,800 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,044 lbs./ 1,834 kg

Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 10.8/8.3

New for 2018: The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is an all-new model for 2018 and represents Alfa’s first foray into the competitive compact luxury crossover market. The car shares its platform with the Giulia sedan and is built with a generous amount of aluminum to help keep weight down. The SUV is offered with a fire-breathing 505 horsepower twin-turbo V6, but our test model was the tamer but still fun Ti Sport model with a 2.0L turbocharged four.

Segment Competitors: Audi Q5, Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, BMW X3, Volvo XC60, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Jaguar F-Pace, Lincoln MKC, Infiniti QX50, Acura RDX, Lexus RX, Cadillac XT5

The Skinny: The Stelvio enters the market in an ever-competitive luxury compact crossover segment full of established opposition. Having driven a number of its competitors in the past, I can safely say that the Stelvio is like nothing I had ever driven before. I mean this in both the literal sense, as this was my first opportunity to drive any Alfa Romeo, and in the figurative sense as the quirky and performance-oriented nature of this car really helped it stand out from the crowd. Whether you love it or hate it, you have to admit that the Stelvio’s looks are indeed interesting and truly original. The CUV drives more like a sports car than utility vehicle but still has enough passenger and cargo space to pick up some groceries or take everyone to the next sporting event.

Pros: Although our test model was not the aforementioned 505 horsepower Quadrifoglio model, this was still easily one of the most fun CUVs I’ve ever driven with its combination of the peppy turbocharged 4-cylinder motor and well-balanced chassis and suspension setup.

Cons: Although fun to use, I’ve heard from a few that the large, column-mounted paddle shifters can often get in the way when taking turns.

The Verdict: The Alfa Romeo Stelvio does everything you’d expect of any compact crossover vehicle would, but definitely benefits from a little Italian flair. It’s fun to drive, efficient, practical and features a look that are unquestionably its own. If you want to have a little fun at times without sacrificing need for a family-oriented vehicle, take a closer look at the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.