This is what Belgian Alfa Romeo enthusiasts have been waiting for: orders can now be taken from June onwards at Belgian dealerships for the new Giulia. It is available in three versions, Giulia, Super and Quadrifoglio. Not less than five new engines are offered, notably the 2,2 litre diesel with either 136, 150 or 180 HP. One can choose between a six speed manual or the well proven 8 speed automatic from the group.
Hans Knol ten Bensel
Cuore sportivo…
Thoroughbred petrol engines are of course the hallmark of Alfa Romeo, and it offers as top of the range the 510 HP 2,9 litre V6 biturbo. Beautiful sound and breathtaking performance is yours with this magnificent engine.
Inspired by Ferrari technology and technical skills, the V6 BiTurbo petrol engine is entirely made of aluminium – to minimise the car’s absolute weight, especially on the front axle – and it delivers besides the abovementioned 510 HP also a torque in excess of 600 Nm, for exhilarating performance: top speed of 307 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds.
Although the horsepower and torque values are exceptional, the 510 HP 2.9-litre V6 BiTurbo petrol engine is also best in class in terms of emission levels (198 g/km of CO2 with 6-speed manual gearbox) and it is surprisingly efficient in its consumption levels, thanks to the electronically-controlled cylinder disabling system.
Within a few months, further four cylinder petrol engines will be available.
…and smooth diesel power
The 2.2-litre diesel engine on the new Giulia is the first diesel engine in Alfa Romeo history to have been built entirely in aluminum. With four cylinders in line, this engine stands out for its latest-generation injection system with MultiJet II technology and Injection Rate Shaping (IRS), along with operating pressures of 2,000 bar. The electrically-operated variable geometry turbocharger offers state-of-the-art mechanics and minimizes response times and at the same time guarantees benefits in terms of efficiency. The most sophisticated driving satisfaction and comfort levels are also guaranteed by the use of a balancing countershaft
CO2 emissions are as low as 99 g/km with the 180 HP Diesel coupled to the 8 speed automatic.
A driver’s delight
The Giulia is a true driver’s car with an ideal 50/50 weight distribution. On the front, a new double track control arm suspension with semi-virtual steering axis was developed to optimize the filtering effect and guarantee rapid, accurate steering. This Alfa Romeo exclusive keeps the tyre footprint constant on corners and can tackle high lateral accelerations. In any situation and at all speeds, driving the Alfa Romeo Giulia with the most direct steering ratio in its segment (11.8) is natural and instinctive.
A four and a half track solution – patented by Alfa Romeo – ensuring top performance, driving satisfaction and comfort has been chosen for the rear axl
But safety first…
Efficient active safety systems are available starting right from the base version, like Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) and pedestrian recognition.
There is also Integrated Brake System (IBS), Lane Departure Warning and Cruise Control. The base version also is equipped with the Alfa DNA and Alfa TM Infotainment System with 6,5 inch Connect display.
The top of the range Quadrifoglio has alcantara and leather sports seats, Blind Spot Monitoring Technology, rearview camera and xenon headlights with AFS technology.
Amongst others there is the DNA pro selector with Race Modus which communicates with the chassis domain control or CDC and Torque Vectoring. Different packs will shortly be available to enhance the base version, like the Luxury Pack, the Sport Pack and the Driver Assistance Pack.
Two Business Packs will also be offered on the Giulia, especially developed for fleet users. The “Business Pack” consists of metallic paint, 6,5 inch navigation system and parking sensors, (1.990 Euro including VAT) and the “Business Pack Plus” which includes leather seats (2.790 Euro incl. VAT).
Prices for the Giulia on the Belgian market start from 31.990 Euro including VAT for the 2,2 litre turbodiesel with 136/150 HP.
Of course we are very keen to get acquainted with this Giulia, and can hardly wait to take her out for a spin, hopefully soon!
Hans Knol ten Bensel