The Alfa Romeo Giuletta descends from some of the company’s top notch models, which have also included the pre-war vehicles. Even after the war, Alfa Romeo was able to set itself apart as a mid-market premium brand. The Giuletta emerged at first in 1954 and became the precursoe to the ’55 Giuletta saloon. The latest Giueltta model hopes to make up for its lag in sales, introducing a Compact platform that will make its effect crucial to the market. The current Giuletta is only available as a five-door vehicle and comes with either three diesels or three petrols in its engine range.
Pros
The Alfa Romeo Giuletta has a modular platform that enables flexibility in mechanical hardware and body style. In terms of aesthetics, the Giuletta is not as pretty as the 147 but it does make up for such in a solid presence. This rewards owners with a stylish but subtle confidence. Other design elements include the vee-sculpture bonnet, an offset front numberplate, and a lower grille—all of which borrow elements from the 8C Competizione. The LED daytime running lights distinguish the design, as they are vertically arranged in the front clusters. Rear door handles seamlessly flow into the window frame. The model also includes twin exhausts that excel in form and function. Another ergonomical feature is the boot’s Alfa badge that also acts as a keyless electric tailgate release.
The most striking feature of the Giuletta’s design is the silvered dashboard insert. Apart from the attractive finish and color, the dashboard has a soft-feel moulding that flows around the outer edge. What results is a classy looking cabin that’s made even more sophisticated by the aluminum-effect décor and piano wood. Drivers will have no problems adjusting the seat according to their height. But whe wheel can also be lowered if it’s more convenient.
Space is enough at the front and rear areas, and the back seats offer enough support. The boot is much larger than the 147 model. Luggage space also includes a power socket, bag hook, and recesses for bottle storage. The four door bins also include console trays and can holders, plus a rubber-floored and lidded tray in the dash if the sat-nav is not included.
The most powerful engine in the Giuletta’s range is the 2.0 JTDM engine, which does not disappoint in its 236 lb ft pulse that goes from 1500rpm. The 1.6 JTDM is also just as appealing due to its affordable running coasts and uplifting performance.
Cons
Although gearchange is smooth and satisfying, it tends to kill the engine before the car halts and leads to a little tremor upon shutting down then starting up. This is partially due to the transversely arranged engine. In 2012, the Giuletta improved this by including dual-clutch transmission on most diesel and petrol models. The TCT pairs well with the 168bhp diesel, so you can expect smootg and slick changes. But it does not perform as well with the MultiAir petrol, which gives a more sluggish ride. The stop-start system still has problems in between transitions.
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(Average rating: 5 , Total rates: 1 )
