We all know the current-generation BMW X3 is on its way out. In fact, dealers have stopped bringing them in, so if you want one you’re gonna have to find one that’s already on a lot somewhere. The next X3 is on its way, which we’ll see this Summer, but it’s going to have to deal with a brand-new contender the moment it gets here — the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
After all of the buzz of the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, the Italian brand has brought some of that hype over to a new SUV, with the Stelvio. The Italians brought their first-ever SUV to the 2017 NYIAS and we were able to get up close and personal with it.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes in two flavors in the US. The first is the regular Stelvio that packs a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The second is the ultra-hot Quadrifolgio, which packs the same 2.9 liter twin-turbocharged V6 as the Giulia Quadrifoglio, an eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive.
From the outside, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio actually looks kinda funky. In general, the Stelvio is a bubbly looking car, with smooth, rounded curves. So when Alfa adds the Quadrifoglio’s aggressive design touches, it gets a little weird looking. To be honest, I actually feel that the standard Stevlio is the better looking car of the two. But both are charming SUVs with a smooth design that’s completely different from everything else in the segment. Both the Germans and the Japanese are all pushing for sharp lines and angles, so seeing the Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s curves is a welcome sight.
Inside, the Stelvio’s cabin is handsome and well laid out. Most materials seem of high quality and ergonomics are mostly good. However, there is the errant cheap-feeling material or plastic and strangely placed button. In the back seat, knee and leg room was a bit compromised, even for me and I’m only 5’9″. Though, headroom was ample and the seats were comfortable enough. The trunk also seems big enough to compete in the segment. Overall, the cabin of the Stelvio will make a lot of customers happy in the U.S.