First Drive: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce

First Drive: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce

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In 2017, Alfa Romeo introduced its Stelvio SUV, named after the Stelvio Pass in Italy. It competes with the likes of the Porsche Macan, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC models of this world. 

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It was a bold move that paid off for the Turin-based brand that had long ignored this lucrative segment.

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You see. The Stelvio continues to be the brand's benchmark D-SUV model and something you buy with your heart. It's that good, full stop. 

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A Much Needed Nip And Tuck 

For the 2023 model year, Alfa Romeo has now handed the Stelivo a much-needed nip and tuck to keep it relevant in the respective stable. I say much-needed because it's the first time in six years that the Italian brand has refreshed the SUV.  

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What has Alfa Romeo been doing all these years? While we can't speak to the specifics of what's been going on behind the scenes with electrification and model planning, it has taken some time to bolster the Stelvio SUV's suite of active systems, including a touchscreen infotainment system. 

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Things are different this time around, yet they are also familiar. It's pretty much the same car we tested in 2017, but the update has reinvigorated the Stelvio inside and out. 

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For some decent bragging rights, the MY23 Stelvio comes with a unique finish for the two main air ducts; however, the easily noticeable changes are the new full-LED adaptive matrix headlights that come with a '3+3' lighting signature, as seen in the Tonale and are reminiscent of the iconic SZ Zagato of the 90s and Proteo concept vehicle. 

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It rides on striking 20" wheels wrapped in 255/45 R20 rubber, while the rear comes fitted with new LED rear lights in glass with a transparent finish, and that's pretty much it. Furthermore, it rolls out with six exterior shades; Alfa Red, Alfa White, Volcano Black, Misano Blue, Ettina Red and Vesuvio Grey. 

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Not So Much Going On Inside

Inside, a subtle change-up comes in the form of a new digital 12.3" TFT screen that is a gateway to the vehicle's functions and can be customised in three layouts; Evolved, Relax and Heritage. 

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It retains the pre-facelift variant's intuitive 8.8" touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which, compared to its rivals, is considerably smaller. For reference, the X3 and GLC come with up to 12.3" and 11.9" touchscreen infotainment screens respectively. Here, the Stelvio loses some points. 

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It comes with a host of nice-to-have features as standard such as a wireless charging pad, dual-zone air-conditioning with rear vents, heated steering wheel and front seats, 6-way driver and passenger seat adjustment and rear USB port, to name a few. The only option, though, is the panoramic roof for R20,000 extra. 

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Build quality remains in check with impressive materials in all places, further complemented by a comfortable and roomier cabin. It has adequate boot space as a family SUV, yet it's not class-leading at 525 litres compared to the X3's 550 litres and GLC's 600 litres. The Macan, on the other hand, falls short with its 488 litres of boot space. 

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The Winning Point

The Stelvio's winning quality has always been how it showcases itself on the road, and it's still a great SUV to pilot. The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine has been left as is with its 206 kW of power and 400 Nm sent to all fours via an 8-speed ZF transmission. 

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Agility remains in check, and to be frank, it punches above its weight compared to its rivals thanks to responsive throttle inputs, quick and precise steering; and while Alfa Romeo doesn't make mention of any mechanical improvements, the refreshed Stelvio Veloce feels gruntier than before. That's a worthy improvement in itself.  

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Its Q4 all-wheel-drive system and 50:50 weight distribution ensure superb confidence backed up by sufficient cornering grip and impressive damping. 

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Worthy Contender? 

We agree. New lights, reworked bumpers, and digital-first screens inside may mean a little for some but Alfa Romeo did a fantastic job, and these improvements are just the icing on the cake. 

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While it might not be as exciting as the old Alfas, it is a worthy contender.

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You know what they say. You must own an Alfa Romeo once in your life, so this is a chance to buy one if you have R1,205,500 idling somewhere. Just remember the panoramic sunroof - it's the perfect way to enjoy those sunny days on the road.

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