The most powerful variants of the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio are getting upgraded for the 2020 model year. The biggest impact of the changes is in the vehicles’ cabin where high-tech features finally take a front seat to styling.
Both models continue to be powered by a 2.9-liter bi-turbo V6 engine that produces 510 horsepower and 600 nM of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Stelvio Quadrifolgio models have an all-wheel drive system.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is the second-highest performance version of the model designed for daily driving.Photo courtesy of FCA
New for 2020,customers can choose to equip either model with an Akrapovič exhaust, which features titanium with carbon fiber tailpipes and a sophisticated note.
Also at the rear are new LED light clusters with dark lenses. Badging has been made glossy black. The Stelvio also features new 21-inch alloys wheels, seen for the first time on a Quadrifoglio.
Mopar has also designed an exclusive Quadrifoglio accessories line for MY2020, featuring a carbon fibre front grille with “V” insert, mirror caps and rear spoiler.
The cabin of both models features a more refined aesthetic. The center console has more storage space, the leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter are standard. Buyers have the option to add red or green seat belts rather than the traditional black. Alfa Romeo has made perforated leather available on the models, fitted standard with Alcantara sport seats. Carbon shell Sparco seats are available.
The models feature freshly designed interiors with higher grade materials.Photo courtesy of FCA
The models have also gotten a significant tech upgrade. The new infotainment system is housed within a standard 8.8-inch touch screen. Quadrifolgio models exclusively get Performance Pages, which show the temperatures of the main mechanical components, torque delivery, turbo pressure and power used, as well as digital chronometers to measure acceleration and maximum speed, allowing the driver to view performance levels and vehicle status in real time.
Getting from A to B in a hurry shouldn’t be a problem in the new models and getting there safely is more likely thanks to the introduction of Level 2 advance driver assistance systems technology. Under Level 2 conditions, the driver must remain in control of the vehicle, by always keeping their hands on the steering wheel. The vehicles’ system includes:
- Lane Keep Assist – detects whether the vehicle is veering off from its lane if one of the direction indicators has not been triggered, and advises the driver using visuals and haptics, with active intervention to steer the vehicle back into lane.
- Active Blind Spot Assist – monitors rear blind spots but also reports any approaching vehicles and corrects steering to avoid a collision.
- Active Cruise Control – automatically adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front. In conjunction with the traffic sign recognition system, this technology adjusts the speed to within the set limit, for a more comfortable drive.
- Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Control – this system uses the on-board camera, recognises traffic signs, reports them on the display, and alerts the driver to the current speed limit. The system therefore suggests the driver reduce their speed to the limit detected. If the driver accepts, the cruise control settings are automatically adjusted.
- Traffic Jam Assist and Highway Assist – complementing Active Cruise Control, these features monitor lateral positioning, keeping the car in the middle of the lane in heavy traffic (Traffic Jam Assistant) or on the motorway (Highway Assist), while also adjusting the speed according to the current limits.
- Driver Attention Assist – monitors driver drowsiness and triggers an alert if necessary.
The models will be offered in four livery categories: Competizione, recalling the brand’s sporting tradition; Metal, emphasising its dynamic spirit; Solid, dedicated to those seeking stability; and Classic, which recalls and reinterprets the heritage of Alfa Romeo.
The two models feature the same powertrain and many similar features and appointments.Photo courtesy of FCA
The Classic range features three new colors with brand heritage in focus: 6C Villa d’Este Red, GT Junior Ocra, and Montreal Green. The latter hue pays homage to one of the brand’s icons, the Alfa Romeo Montreal, launched 50 years ago.
The new MY2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio will go on sale later this year. Prices will be announced closer to the vehicles’ on-sale date. News on whether or not the models make to the U.S. is still pending.