The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta has a mean task ahead, as it competes in the crowded and very competent hatchback class. This is one of the toughest car segments, where no car can afford to put a foot – or a tyre – wrong.
It is with pedigree that the new Giulietta has to carve out a niche – and of that, this little Italian beauty has plenty.
The Giulietta has always been a stylish car. This latest update gives it a fresher and more distinguished look.
Most people buying a family hatchback will always go for reliability. For those who want to marry reliability with stand-out qualities, the Giulietta fits the bill perfectly.
The Giulietta is also fun to drive, with sharp steering and minimal body lean. It also lets you alter how you control it, depending on how relaxed or sporty you want the driving experience to be.
There’s more good news when it comes to the Giulietta’s engines. It takes very little time to go from 0 to 62mph, and while you wouldn’t describe the entry-level 118bhp 1.4-litre petrol as overwhelming, you will still be pleasantly surprised when you step on the gas.
They say you should never judge a book by its cover, but in this case you can really do so
They say you should never judge a book by its cover, but in this case you can really do so. The looks on the outside are truly that of an Alfa – sporty and stylish. The design lines of the car are ample proof that the people working on the model have a passion for beautiful machines and that they went the extra mile to give the Giulietta a special look.
Things are just as appealing on the inside. The driving position is commanding, the seats are hard enough to keep you focused, yet comfortable to make every journey pleasant. The dashboard is well displayed, with all the controls visible.
The head and shoulder space is ample and five adults can travel in comfort. Leg room is abundant and tall drivers can sit comfortably without cramping whoever is sitting behind them. Luggage space is generous enough to give the Giulietta family car credentials.
On the road, the Giulietta makes a strong statement. The car feels solid and has serious and confident road holding – it hugs the road curves easily and effortlessly. Gear change is smooth and braking is reactive.
Alfa offers the Giulietta in four trim levels. The entry-level car is simply called ‘Giulietta’ and is well-equipped, with 16-inch alloy wheels, all-round electric windows, air-conditioning, a leather steering wheel, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Giulietta has top safety credentials – in fact, it scored the full five stars when it went through Euro NCAP’s crash safety assessments, with very strong results for passenger protection and safety assistance provision.
This Alfa beauty is the right choice for those who want to drive a good-looking car that has both family car and sports credentials.