Alfa’s super sedan — Stunning, powerful, mercilessly addicting

By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(March 23, 2019) The very first things that strike you about the Italian-bred Alfa Romeo Giulia sports sedan are its stunning good looks, the way it sits on the ground, and its overall stage presence. The four-door Giulia comes in six flavors – five powered by the 280-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the Giulia Quadrifoglio tested here, powered by the monstrous 505-horsepower 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 that goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 191 mph.

Both variants deliver flawless, irreproachable handling and ride quality, wrapped in a centerfold-worthy body. It’s the Quadrifoglio that makes Giulia so fascinating, consuming every ounce of automotive emotion in my body. Front and rear bumpers are sho
rt, body panels stretched tight across its muscular frame, the sloping hood beautifully connects to Alfa’s signature V-shaped grille, easily making it the best-looking vehicle in its segment.

Inside, it is nicely designed — with a thick steering wheel with an excellent feel – but some of the operating controls are fussy and there’s some economy-looking plastic trim. Seats are heavily bolstered, yet comfortable, with ample adjustment options. Standard equipment is substantial: 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation; leather seats, dash and upper doors; genuine carbon fiber trim; and a full complement of advanced safety features.

While its immense horsepower and rocket-sled acceleration is more than impressive, what really stands out is the sports-car precise, trigger-fish handling. It corners flat with virtually zero body roll. The steering is the best I’ve experienced, and the eight-speed automatic transmission is nearly perfect, especially when “dynamic” or “race mode” settings are engaged.

Road noise is muted, visibility excellent. If we had one complaint it’s that the powerful and precise Brembo brakes were much too sensitive, throwing occupants forward even with the slightest touch of the foot.

The Giulia is a lodestar of desire for those willing to forego following the crowd by choosing the cliché luxurious, subjacent sedans from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. Those who carve their own path with the Alfa Romeo will be more than well rewarded.

Vital Stats
Base Price: $38,295 - $73,995
Price as Tested: $79,495
Engine: 2.0-liter 280-hp four cylinder or 2.9-liter 505-hp V6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission
Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city – 33-mpg highway – 27-mpg combined
Seating: 5

Crash Test Ratings: “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Where Built: Cassino, Italy

Competes With:
Audi RS 5
BMW 3 Series
Genesis G70
Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Fab Features:
Powerful base and performance engines
Superb handling and control
Gorgeous styling