WeeklySA_AdminEXPENSIVE TO RUN: Performance its calling card
By Ali Mphaki
Monkey see monkey do was never Alfa’s credo. From time immemorial the brand, short for Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobil, which means Lombardian Car factory, has churned out unique products that stands out from the crowd.
Those of my age will recall how were awed by the Alfa Guiletta when it debutted in our shores early 80s. The memory of the late journo Jeff Masekwameng lingers each time I think of the Guilleta.
My buddy social giant Allen Makokomela will also boast how he was able to weave his way down a woman’s pants having flattered the impressionable lass that he was driving a Guiletta. Kikiki.
That was then..
Set to titillate the senses in more ways than one reminiscent of the Guiletta era is the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio, undoubtedly an eye catcher. Visual flair and unique characteristics conspire to make the Stelvio a gorgeous crossover SUV – a first in the company’s 116 years of existence.
With its sexy design and rich Italian heritage, the Stelvio offers the discerning motorist a gorgeous alternative to typical compact luxury crossovers, leaving the likes of Audi, and BMW in contemplative mood.
It may be that Alfa as a brand, has had issues pertaining to reliability, fuel economy etc. but apparently all that is forgotten once you experience its gutsy acceleration emanating from the 2-0-litre turbocharged engine under the bonnet. Cabin wise, the pretty dashboard features an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which can be customized to the driver’s preferences.
Smart switches and knobs and wireless smartphone-charging pad in the centre-console completes a welcoming ambience, even though it does not compare favourably with the opposition.
As optional extras, you have a semi-autonomous driving mode. Safety has not been compromised either, Alfa Romeo has made autonomous emergency braking a standard feature. Coming to the Ti model in the Performance package, this is where, among others, you’ll be first impressed by its aluminum paddle shifters.
On the Premium package blowing those blues away is the Harman Kardon stereo, to be enjoyed with bums resting on heated back seats, not forgetting wireless charging. In local lingo you could say the Stelvio is not umapakisha.
This is due to its laughable boot space and a bit claustrophobic back seat. This is where the alternatives like the Lexus RX and BMW X3 give the Stelvio a jab in the face.
God willing we could have the opportunity to sample the Stelvio in the not too distant future, but leaving us with a lump in our throats and wrigging our hands in anticipation are the rare reviews we’ve seen about the car so far.
Adjective like gorgeous, enticing, highly entertaining driving matters and energetic turbo-four engine roll out easily from the reviewers.
We also concur that the Stelvio is a treat to the senses.
