Best Car Reviews - 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio AWD

Introduction

Released in 2018, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio AWD targets those who appreciate style, performance, and the caché that comes with owning a luxury Italian car. As a compact SUV, it offers a distinctive blend of sportiness and practicality, catering to ambitious families and adventurous individuals alike. The Stelvio AWD stands out with its distinct Italian design flair and exceptional driving dynamics, making it a compelling choice in the crowded SUV market.

Design and Exterior Features

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a visual treat, favoring a sleek and aerodynamic shape that emphasizes both agility and elegance. Its athletic stance is enhanced by sharp lines and a muscular chassis.

Iconic ‘Trilobo’ grille design
Sculpted bodywork for improved aerodynamics
LED headlamps and taillights for better visibility
18 to 20-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim

The Stelvio is not just about looks, its practical design ensures efficient performance, a tribute to Alfa Romeo's racing heritage.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Stelvio, drivers are greeted by a cabin that offers both luxury and practicality. The use of high-quality materials and thoughtful design make this a truly comfortable drive.

Leather upholstery with accent stitching
Dual-zone climate control
Aluminum and wood interior trims for added elegance
Spacious boot space and adaptable rear seats

Despite being sporty, the Stelvio does not compromise on comfort, making it ideal for long journeys and daily commutes alike.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Stelvio houses a 2.0-liter I4 turbocharged engine, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This efficient yet powerful combination delivers 280 horsepower and an impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds.

Driving the Stelvio is an exhilarating experience:

Crisp and responsive steering
All-wheel drive system ensures stability
Handles city streets, highways, and sharp turns with remarkable ease
Fuel consumption is approximately 12.4 L/100 km

Overall, the performance is robust, delivering an engaging driving experience that true car enthusiasts will appreciate.

Technology and Connectivity

The Stelvio is not short on technology, ensuring a connected and safe driving experience.

Infotainment system with 9.7-inch display
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Navigation system
Premium sound system

It offers a host of up-to-date tech features that make every drive both enjoyable and convenient.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority for Alfa Romeo, and the Stelvio comes loaded with both standard and advanced safety features.

Automatic emergency braking
Lane departure warning
Blind-spot monitoring
Adaptive cruise control
Rear parking sensors

These safety features have earned the Stelvio commendable crash test ratings, reinforcing its reliability on the road.

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio AWD starts at around $42,000. It offers multiple trim levels, with higher trims providing additional luxury features. While slightly more expensive than some competitors, its design and performance justify the price.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Distinctive and stylish Italian design
Exceptional driving dynamics with powerful engine
Luxurious interior finish
Comprehensive suite of technology features
Competitive safety features

Cons

Higher fuel consumption compared to some rivals
Infotainment system can be less intuitive
Limited rear visibility
Pricier maintenance costs
Rear seat space is somewhat tight

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance for the Stelvio typically incurs costlier charges due to premium parts and brand service quality.

Transmission longevity issues
Brake pad wear
Electronic glitches with infotainment system
Tire wear in AWD models
Service intervals can be frequent

Rating

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

Overall Rating: 8.2/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love the stylish design and handling. Truly a driver's car!" - Sarah L.
"Tech could be better, but driving it is a sheer delight." - John D.
"Italian craftsmanship shines through in every detail." - Mia T.
"Could use more rear space, but everything else is on point." - Leo K.
"Maintenance can be a bit steep, but the experience is worth every penny." - Alex H.

Best Cars In This Category

2018 Audi Q5
2018 BMW X3
2018 Porsche Macan
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC
2018 Jaguar F-Pace

Summary

The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio AWD is best suited for those seeking a versatile SUV that does not compromise on performance or style. Its combination of high-quality interiors, advanced safety features, and dynamic driving performance make it a considerable option in the luxury SUV market. While it may not entirely fit every budget, its undeniable appeal and Italian allure make it a highly desirable choice for many.