Alfa Romeo Stelvio Q review: Italian stallion appeals to the emotions

Very few SUVs manage to get the pulse racing, but this Italian thoroughbred is the exception to the rule, combining movie-star looks with awesome power.

MAMMA MIA! IT’S FAST

The Stelvio Q’s Ferrari-derived twin-turbocharged V6 engine makes a potent 375kW and 600Nm, matched to a quick shifting eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

It delivers an explosion of Italian power not seen since the Mount Etna erupted, propelling the sleek SUV from standstill to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds.

That acceleration is on par with top-end machines such as the 375kW/700Nm Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 and the 375kW/650Nm BMW X3 M Competition.

At about $172,000 drive-away the Stelvio Q is cheaper than its main rivals and you’ll feel part of an exclusive club as the Stelvio is a rare sight on our roads.

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio matches movie-star looks with macho performance. Picture: Supplied.

LIVE LA DOLCE VITA

Driving the Stelvio Q truly is the sweet life.

In dynamic mode, the dual-mode quad-exhaust system barks and roars with excitement, singing with an operatic intensity that few in this category can match.

Scalpel sharp and accurate steering provides immense driver engagement on a twisting strip of tarmac, while the auto instinctively finds the best ratio for maximum thrust out of a corner.

For those who crave more control, there are steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Firm suspension delivers excellent body control, giving the Stelvio sports car-like precision through corners.

Beware race mode, though, as it switches off the stability control.

Alfa claims it’ll drink 10.2L/100km, but our experience suggests you’re unlikely to get close to that figure.

Razor-sharp reflexes make the Stelvio Q the ultimate companion on a twisting road. Picture: Supplied.

IT’S A LOOKER, TOO

Looks are subjective but Alfa Romeo arguably makes some of the best looking cars on the road.

As with its Giulia sedan sibling, the Stelvio boasts generous curves in just the right places.

Big 20-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in sporty Pirelli rubber, while enormous red brake calipers do a great job of reigning in speed in a hurry.

LED lighting and understated Q badging give the Alfa Romeo a touch of class, while the quad exhausts and four-leaf clover badges add to the racy feel.

Quad exhausts signal the Stelvio’s sporting intent. Picture: Supplied.

THERE IS A CHINK IN ITS ARMOUR

The Stelvio’s cabin is a pleasant space, but it lacks the attention to detail and wow factor of its German rivals.

You still get a decent amount of standard kit, including leather-wrapped sports seats that are heated up front and electronically adjustable on the driver’s side.

A heated and leather bound steering wheel is a welcome addition for cold mornings.

The 8.8-inch central touchscreen is small by modern standards but is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is a welcome addition, as is a wireless device charger.

In front of the driver there’s a mix of analog dials and a small digital display, which is trumped by rivals’ slick fully-digital instrument clusters.

The cabin styling is racy, but lacks the polish of some rivals. Picture: Supplied.

FOLLOW YOUR HEART

Like a summer fling. most will fall in love with the Stelvio Q at first sight and dismiss its shortcomings.

The Italian brand historically doesn’t have the greatest reputation for reliability and servicing is expensive, costing $6644 over five years. Your fourth service will set you back an eye-watering $2600-plus.

Alfa Romeo was one of the last brands in the country to switch to a five year/unlimited km warranty earlier this year.