BMW Group confirms massive investment into BMW SA’s Rosslyn plant for the production of the next-gen X3.
As part of the 50 years in SA anniversary, BMW SA has announced a R4.2 billion investment by BMW Group into its plant at Rosslyn, near Pretoria.
BMW has quite the manufacturing legacy in South Africa and the Rosslyn plant has manufactured over 1.6 million vehicles to date. The Rosslyn plant was also the first plant that BMW built outside of Germany. These cars have been for both local consumption and exported to over 40 countries. Right now, it currently manufactures the X3 medium-sized SUV, but in the past, the 3 Series. 5 Series, 7 Series and 1800/2000 were all made there.
Dr Milan Nedeljkovic, Chairman of the Board of Management for BMW Group SA said, “From 2024 we will produce the BMW X3 in SA as a plug-in hybrid and export it to the world. To this end, the BMW Group is investing R4.2 billion in the site over 5 years.”
The investment by BMW Global is multi-pronged, with the upgrading of facilities to support the assembly of the next-gen BMW X3 plug-in hybrid as well as the next-gen X3 internal combustion-powered models later on. There’s also a corporate/social responsibility program which sees BMW Group partner with UNICEF to provide R30 million towards primary and secondary school learners.
This investment secures over 20 000 jobs, both those employed directly by BMW SA and those indirectly working via the supply chain. There will be additional training rolled out for the workers and more than 300 staff will receive specialised training on the brand-new X3 plug-in hybrid.
What is a plug-in hybrid, you may ask? Essentially, it’s a hybrid vehicle which features both an internal combustion engine (petrol/diesel) as well as a battery and electric motor. It can be charged by an external power source as well as its own engine. It can run on pure electric power for zero emission quiet running as well as deploy both powertrains for full-bore acceleration sprints.
We can expect to see the all-new BMW X3 revealed before the end of 2023 with production of the plug-in hybrid model towards the end of 2024.
Farewell, W12! Here’s SA pricing for the limited-run Bentley Continental GT Speed Edition 12 as well as the equivalent versions of the Bentayga, Flying Spur and Continental GTC…
Bentley’s iconic twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is nearing the end of the road, with production scheduled to wrap up in April 2024. So, the Crewe-based automaker recently revealed limited-run Speed Edition 12 versions of its Bentayga, Continental GT, Continental GTC and Flying Spur.
Though just 120 units of each will be produced, we now have confirmation a few examples are indeed destined for South African roads. And, as such, we can share local pricing for these special tribute cars.
The Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 will be priced from R6 750 000, though it won’t be the most expensive iteration, with the Continental GTC Speed Edition 12 (R7 350 000) taking that title. The Bentayga Speed Edition 12, meanwhile, will kick off from R6 160 000, while the Continental GT Speed Edition 12 will start at R6 720 000.
In the Bentayga and Flying Spur, the hefty W12 powerplant delivers 467 kW and 900 Nm to all 4 wheels, with peak twisting force on tap from just 1 500 r/min all the way through to 5 000 r/min. Maximum power rises to 485 kW in the case of the likewise all-paw Continental GT and the open-top Continental GTC, which both top out at a heady 335 kph.
Production of Bentley’s W12 is due to end in April 2024.
So, what makes a Speed Edition 12? Well, based on the Speed specification, the Edition 12 package includes a numbered engine plaque, model-specific embroidery, colour-graduated seat contrast stitching and a facia finished in Grand Black veneer (complete with the engine firing sequence etched alongside an inlaid “Edition 12” badge).
There are also silver brake callipers (a hue not available for these items on any other Bentley model), while the Continental GT and GTC feature model badging on their front fenders. The Bentayga and Flying Spur versions, meanwhile, carry their “Edition 12” insignias on their respective rear quarters. Other exterior features include Blackline brightware, black 22-inch Speed alloy wheels and self-levelling wheel badges. In addition, a new “Opalite” paint colour is available as an option.
Buyers will furthermore receive a scale model of the W12 engine block as a “commemorative artefact”, each one cast using aluminium taken from a full-size W12. As a reminder, back in 2003, the twin-turbo version of the W12 engine made its debut as the powertrain of choice for the first all-new model under Volkswagen Group ownership, the Continental GT.
How much do Bentley’s Speed Edition 12 models cost in SA?
2023 Range Rover Sport Review: The Best Range Rover Yet?
The brand-new 2023 Range Rover has gone on sale in South Africa. Is it worth the large price tag? Ashley Oldfield wafts around the Winelands and delivers a thorough assessment of the tech, interior and drive.
The Range Rover Sport has always been desirable in the premium SUV segment. Its design has always made sure it stands out in a space where more and more competitors have joined the fray. We put wannabe British gangster, Ashley Oldfield behind the wheel to see what the brand-new version is like to drive.
We consider what the new Range Rover Sport is like to drive, its new features, and how practical the interior is for the modern premium SUV buyer. Are the back seats comfortable enough and do you even need rear-seat entertainment these days?
Finally, what makes a Range Rover Sport special and is it worth spending the extra money on a British SUV instead of the German rivals?
Toyota Hilux Mild-Hybrid Concept Previews A More Efficient Bakkie
The Japanese giant completed a demonstration run of the Hilux Mild-Hybrid concept at the recent World Rally Championship leg, held in Kenya.
Behind the wheel of the Hilux Mild-Hybrid you see here was none other than 4-time WRC champion and Toyota driver Juha Kankkunen. Essentially, this concept is to demonstrate Toyota’s strategy to deliver more efficient and cleaner vehicles.
After the demo run, Juha Kankkunen said: “I’m 100% sure that this type of car will fit in Africa very well because there are still long-distance drives and it’s very difficult to charge electric cars. You can save fuel, which means less CO2. Africa is a good market for this kind of car, and you can make CO2 less with hybrid cars. That is the future.”
Toyota is one of the few brands that hasn’t plunged headfirst into an all-electric product portfolio, preferring a measured and scaled approach. Africa has limited electric-vehicle charging infrastructure and products like the Hilux Mild-Hybrid will assist with a reduction in both economy and emissions.
While the release detailing the demo drive didn’t include any technical details, Toyota Australia has confirmed the 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is in line to gain 48-volt technology which is said to result in a fuel saving of “approximately 10%” for “certain” derivatives.
Toyota has also announced its mission to “mass-produce happiness” by suppling vehicles that support Africa’s lifelines and given its popularity, the Hilux will be one of the core products involved. As a reminder, Toyota South Africa manufacturers the Corolla, Corolla Quest and Corolla Cross along with the Hilux and Fortuner at its Prospecton plant, near Durban.
Meet the BMW X1 M35i xDrive, a hot new version of the firm’s smallest SUV, complete with the most potent iteration of the M Performance 4-pot yet…
The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive has been revealed, boasting suitably aggressive exterior styling and the most powerful M Performance 4-cylinder engine yet … depending on the market, that is.
Yes, while the hottest version of the Munich-based firm’s smallest SUV – which clearly has the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 squarely in its sights – employs a new incarnation of the twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit, its peak power will vary by country. In the United States “and other selected markets”, BMW says the engine will generate 233 kW, while the version offered in Europe will settle for 221 kW.
So, what about South Africa? Well, BMW Group SA told Cars.co.za it has no plans to introduce the new X1 M35i “as yet”. While nothing’s set in stone, the inclusion of those final 2 words at least leaves the door open for a local introduction at some point down the line.
Anyway, back to the story. Maximum torque is 400 Nm regardless of the peak power output, with this twisting force on tap from 2 000 to 4 500 r/min. The German automaker claims a 0-100 kph time of 5.4 seconds (we’re guessing this applies to the 233 kW tune), while top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph. As a reminder, the X2 M35i and the M135i hot hatch each make 225 kW and 450 Nm from an earlier version of this 4-pot motor and hit 100 kph from standstill around half-a-second earlier.
The X1 M35i features quad-pipes, just like a full-fat M model.
As standard, the X1 M35i is fitted with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, complete with shift paddles and featuring a built-in mechanical limited-slip differential. The new all-wheel-drive M Performance model further debuts the brand’s so-called “M Sport Boost” function, which sees all powertrain and chassis systems switched to their sportiest settings when the driver pulls and holds the left-hand shift paddle. Other highlights include an M-specific exhaust system, which BMW promises will deliver an “emotionally rich soundtrack”, channelling exhaust gases via 2 pairs of twin tailpipes (each with a diameter of 80 mm), much like a full-fat M product.
The new engine differs from the preceding generation in that it adopts the Miller cycle, gains redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers, and benefits from changes to the camshaft timing, injection, ignition system and exhaust gas routing. The 4-banger furthermore scores what BMW describes as an “extremely robust” crankshaft drive, an “optimised” system of oil supply for the pistons (with cooling channels), and main bearing shells and caps borrowed from the latest 6-cylinder petrol engines.
Standard specification includes adaptive M suspension (including a 15 mm ride-height drop), sport steering and 19-inch twin-spoke M light-alloy wheels. The X1 M35i xDrive – which incidentally boasts twin-stalk side mirrors, just like a full-bore M model – also becomes the first M Performance model to be offered with the option of M Compound brakes, comprising 4-piston, fixed-calliper brakes with 385 mm drilled discs at the front and single-piston, floating-calliper units with 330 mm discs at the rear.
BMW promises the steering features a “very direct” rack ratio.
Inside, the BMW Curved Display (which comprises a 10.25-inch information display and a 10.7-inch control display) features plenty of M-specific content. The new BMW X1 M35i furthermore uses an updated versions of the BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and the BMW Operating System 9. The result is a newly designed home screen with what the German firm terms an “improved menu structure”. There’s also an anthracite-coloured headliner, M door-sill trim, M pedals and sports seats finished in Sensatec/Alcantara (with blue contrast stitching). Buyers can optionally specify M Sport seats, too.
Finally, the X1 M35i will be available with a “model-specific” M Sport Package Pro, which encompasses M high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M lights Shadowline, an M Sport braking system (with red callipers), M Sport seats and M seat belts.
The newcomer will be built alongside standard versions of the U11-generation X1 (as well as the fully electric iX1) at BMW’s facility in Regensburg, Germany.
Mahindra Thar 5-door To Be Revealed in South Africa
The offroad-focused Mahindra Thar family will be expanding with a new 5-door model. The interesting part is the Indian-based brand has chosen South Africa for the reveal.
The news comes from Autocar India, who claim the new Mahindra Thar will be revealed in South Africa on the 15th August 2023.
As a reminder, the Mahindra Thar is a rugged two-door offroader in the same vein as the Suzuki Jimny. The current generation model was revealed back in the middle of 2020 and we had hopes that it would be introduced to our market. Sadly, it has not yet materialised, but three years on, the Mahindra Thar family is due to receive a five-door model.
Not much is known yet, but the original source suggested the new Mahindra Thar 5-door model will be available with a choice of either a 2.2-litre turbodiesel and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. We’d assume these are the same engines available in the Scorpio-N and XUV700 SUVs.
It’s easy to understand why Mahindra has chosen our country for a reveal. Mahindra SA manufacturers the Scorpio bakkie in Kwa-Zulu Natal and its passenger car sales have shown good growth with the XUV range of SUVs. There’s a rumour we might see the all-electric XUV400 hitting SA roads at some point.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door reveal is a similar strategy to that of Suzuki, with now a 2-door and 5-door Jimny being offered and we expect the two vehicles to go head-to-head.
We expect the all-new Mahindra Thar range to go on sale in South Africa in 2024. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the middle of August.
Toyota Hilux Mild-Hybrid Powertrain: Initial Details Released
Toyota has announced the first official details of its upcoming Hilux mild-hybrid powertrain. Here’s what we know about the mildly electrified Japanese bakkie so far…
Toyota has released the first official details on its upcoming Hilux mild-hybrid powertrain, which is expected to hit the South African market at some point in 2024.
As revealed in a press release put out by Toyota Australia, the widely used 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is in line to gain 48-volt technology, though seemingly only in conjunction with the 6-speed automatic transmission. According to the Japanese firm’s Australian arm, this will result in a fuel saving of “approximately 10%” for “certain” derivatives.
Though the automaker seemingly makes a point of avoiding the word “hybrid” in its official press material on the subject, the Hilux’s hybrid arrangement will include a 48-volt battery, a “small” electric motor-generator and various “other components”. Toyota claims the addition of this system “will not have any impact on the capability of the Hilux with the 4×4 models”, which are set to retain their respective 3 500 kg braked towing capacities.
Toyota promises the mild-hybrid version of the Hilux won’t lose any of its off-road or towing capability.
In addition to the claimed improvement in fuel economy, Toyota says the 48-volt technology will enable the fitment of a stop/start system, while also improving “driveability” and reducing noise, vibration and harshness. However, the company suggests this will not compromise “the performance and capability demanded by customers”.
Down Under, the 48-volt technology will be fitted as standard on high-spec 4×4 models (badged as the SR5 and Rogue in Australia), while furthermore being offered as an option for the all-paw version of the lower-spec SR.
So, what about South Africa? Well, it’s worth keeping in mind Australia sources its Hilux units from Thailand, while Mzansi builds its own at the Prospecton facility in KwaZulu-Natal. That said, in May 2023, Toyota South Africa Motors announced plans to introduce fresh new-energy vehicles to the local market, including hybrid versions of both the Hilux and the closely related Fortuner.
We’ll update this story once Toyota SA Motors releases more official details on the topic, as a lightly electrified version of South Africa’s best-selling vehicle draws ever closer…
How many Toyota GR units have been sold in SA in 2023 so far?
How many Toyota GR units have been registered in South Africa in 2023 thus far? Let’s take a closer look at sales of full-fat GR products for the opening 5 months of the year…
Slowly but steadily, Toyota South Africa Motors has been growing its range of full-fat GR performance products, with the line-up now standing at 4 distinct models. So, how many Toyota GR units (note, we’re not including GR Sport derivatives in this exercise) have been sold locally in the first 5 months of 2023?
Well, before we dive into the figures, it’s worth keeping in mind limited numbers of each of these GR products – which, as performance derivatives, tend to be low-volume models – have been made available locally. In addition, we’re unfortunately not able to include the new GR Corolla here, since the brand reports a total Corolla hatchback figure (though order books for this highly anticipated hot hatch opened in SA only in the 2nd half of May anyway).
So, that leaves us with the GR Yaris, GR86 and GR Supra. Between them, these 3 models accounted for 45 units from the start of January to the end of May 2023, according to figures reported to Naamsa. The most popular of the trio was the GR86, with 25 registrations over the reporting period (9 of which came in January 2023).
The strongest-selling full-fat GR model year to date in SA in the GR86.
As a reminder, the 2-strong GR86 local range kicks off with the 6-speed manual model for R733 500, while specifying the automatic cog-swapper will cost you an additional R37 400. Regardless of chosen transmission, the naturally aspirated (Subaru-sourced) 2.4-litre, flat-4 petrol mill makes 174 kW and 250 Nm.
The GR Yaris wasn’t too far behind, ending the 5-month period on 18 registrations. This little hot hatch makes 198 kW and 360 Nm from its turbocharged 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder petrol motor, which feeds all 4 wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox. There’s just a single derivative on offer (with the base version having been discontinued locally in mid-2022) in the form of the Rally variant, retailing for R815 700.
Finally, just 2 units of the recently updated GR Supra were registered in the opening 5 months of the year, both coming in May 2023 (remarkably, before that, Toyota SA Motors last sold a new GR Supra in May 2022). Now boasting 285 kW and 500 Nm from its (BMW-sourced) turbocharged 3.0-litre, straight-6 petrol engine, the GR Supra is offered in both 6-speed manual (R1 417 500) and 8-speed automatic (R1 451 800) guise.
Toyota has unveiled a stylish, all-new C-HR compact SUV. Will it come to South Africa? Take a look at what’s on offer!
When the Toyota C-HR arrived in South Africa back in 2016, it was regarded as one of the best-looking cars in the compact SUV segment with its sharp and edgy design language.
Now, Toyota has revealed an all-new C-HR! You may remember the 2022 C-HR Prologue Concept which was a preview of the forthcoming model and it’s remarkable how close this production version is to the concept, which is a good thing! Toyota has even called it a “concept car for the road”.
Much like the outgoing model, the new C-HR adopts a similar styling approach with a distinctive coupe-like silhouette, short overhangs and large-diameter wheels (up to 20-inch). Complementing the design of the new C-HR is a new two-tone paint design which extends the contrast black roof into the rear three-quarter section. We think Toyota has hit the nail on the head! Do you agree?
The CH-R GR Sport will add a sporty touch to an already stylish cabin design.
The style statement continues on the inside with a horizontal “wing” design theme and with most of the controls focussed around the driver. Ambient lighting, with up to 64 colours to choose from, further enhances the interior ambience. More so, a synchronised programme with 24 changing colours throughout the day features for the first time and the system is also able to warn drivers of imminent collisions with cars or cyclists by changing to red when a threat is detected.
Depending on the grade, the C-HR is equipped with a new 12.3-inch instrument cluster and head-up display and the driver can configure the information layout via the steering wheel controls. As for the infotainment system, the C-HR gains an 8- or 12.3-inch infotainment system (depending on grade) with voice control and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The system will provide vital vehicle information such as EV range and nearest charging points and using the MyT smartphone app, the driver will also be able to control car functions such as engine start, remote parking and priming the air conditioning before setting off on your journey.
Toyota has also adopted a more environmentally friendly approach in the construction of the new C-HR by using recycled materials. In fact, more than 100 parts are made from recycled plastics! For example, the new seat fabric is made from recycled PET bottles and the bumpers are developed from a new resin material which cuts back on CO2 as does the new automated painting process which uses water-based paints. Even the steering wheel is wrapped in a new animal-free material…
What powertrains does the new Toyota C-HR offer?
4 hybrid powertrains will be offered in Europe.
The new C-HR was designed in Europe, for Europe, and considering the push towards lower emissions and electrification, the new C-HR adopts hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with a total of 4 electrified options for buyers to consider.
This includes both 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid-electric (HEV) front-wheel-drive derivatives while an all-paw version will also be offered in 2.0-litre HEV guise. Lastly, the C-HR will also be offered as a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). All derivatives benefit from Toyota’s latest fifth-generation hybrid technology.
The 103 kW 1.8-litre HEV powertrain is the same that’s found in the latest Corolla Hybrid. The 2.0-litre HEV, meanwhile produces 145 kW while the C-HR PHEV is said to offer 164 kW and will be able to drive up to 66 km on electric steam using a 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, the same used in the new Prius. The C-HR PHEV also boasts a new geo-fencing function that automatically switches the car into EV mode when entering a Low Emission Zone (LEZ).
Toyota will launch the new C-HR with 2 special Premier Edition models including the GR Sport Premier Edition (with G-Sport design details) and a High Premier Edition with a Sulphur bi-tone exterior and Sulphur stitched perforated leather seats.
Will the new Toyota C-HR be offered in South Africa?
In light of Toyota’s latest NEV strategy, the new C-HR is likely to reach South Africa but exact details are TBC.
A Toyota spokesperson has indicated that local introduction of the C-HR is unlikely (but not impossible) due to the high cost of importing New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) to South Africa.
Within the context of TSAM’s recently-announced NEV strategy and considering the product importance of the C-HR, we’re optimistic that Toyota will at the very least initially consider the local introduction of the C-HR HEV while the C-HR PHEV might follow at a later stage following a trial period, much like we’ve seen with the Toyota RAV4 PHEV.
We will update this story as soon as we receive more information.
A revised version of Alfa Romeo’s executive SUV has arrived in Mzansi. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio facelift hopes to lure some customers away from (primarily German) premium marques with a blend of engaging dynamics and a full-house spec – could it succeed?
What is it?
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio – one of 2 models based on the (then FCA) rear-wheel drive-Giorgio platform – was conceived to revitalise the historic automotive brand that was founded in Milan in 1910. If head-turning looks, a thrilling driving experience and sheer desirability were the Stelvio and its Giulia business-class sedan sibling’s only pillars of success, the brand achieved its objective.
But it’s never that simple, is it? Although Stelvio and Giulia were impressive products (especially in their flagship Quadrifoglio guises), neither model garnered substantial sales – at least not to the premium-market-disrupting level the late Fiat Chrysler Automobiles chief Sergio Marchionne hoped they would.
Here is a bit of context for you… Throughout 2022, Alfa Romeo sold just over 100 Stelvios in South Africa. While we won’t have comparative data for the Italian SUV’s BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC rivals, we know that Audi sold 73 units of its Q5… in May 2023 alone. So, what’s holding the Stelvio back? Why are consumers reluctant to purchase one of the market’s most stylish executive SUVs?
Unfortunately, there are too many possible explanations: The Alfa Romeo line-up is limited to 3 models; the Stelvio’s been on sale for 5 years already and isn’t marketed intensely; plus, the Italian brand’s reputation for indifferent after-sales back-up, iffy reliability and poor resale values seems to linger.
Still, under Stellantis (which manages 6 brands in the local market, including Fiat, Jeep, Opel, Peugeot and Citroen), Alfa Romeo is experiencing a small resurgence; the Tonale (the brand’s boutique compact crossover) is already on South African roads and there are more models in store. Stellantis has a diverse line-up of products, which means it can minimise the development and production costs of new models through platform sharing – hopefully, the Italian brand will indeed be able to keep its head above water.
But back to the Stelvio, which is positioned against the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Lexus NX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Range Rover Evoque and Volvo XC60; while the Three-Pointed Star’s model is new, the others have, like the Alfa, been around for a while. The 2023 update is effectively a model-year refreshment, but the Stelvio is arguably still a more fun-to-drive proposition than its rivals, courtesy of driver’s car-like characteristics such as a carbon-fibre prop shaft, limited-slip differential and 50:50 weight distribution.
What’s on offer?
There are 2 derivatives in the line-up of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio facelift: the 2.0T Veloce Q4 (which you see here) and Quadrifoglio (also with Q4 all-wheel-drive, but powered by a 375-kW 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6), which will be hitting showrooms later this year.
You can distinguish the 2023 model from the version that was last updated in 2021 by the triple-barrel lighting signature of the newcomer’s adaptive LED headlights (as on the Tonale), new-look tail lamps and a slightly revised grille. Inside, there’s a new digital instrument cluster and other minor detail changes.
The Stelvio 2.0T Veloce Q4 is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that produces peak outputs of 206 kW and 400 Nm. As before, the executive SUV utilises a slick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission (the same ZF-sourced unit found in many BMW models) to distribute torque to all 4 wheels.
Performance-wise, the Veloce is said to sprint from 0 to 100 kph in just 5.7 sec and run to a top speed of 230 kph. But, there’s much more to the car than just straight-line sprints and eye-catching good looks.
Why? Because the entry point to the Stelvio is far from “entry-level”. For R1 205 500 (the same price as the pre-update version), the derivative’s standard spec is comprehensive. Customers have 6 colours to choose from and interestingly, Alfa Romeo SA says the only option is a sunroof. Highlights include:
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster & 8.8-inch infotainment screen
Apple Carplay/Android Auto, USB A/USB C ports, Wireless charging pad
Heated seats & heated steering wheel
Dual-zone climate control
Leather sports seats
Powered tailgate
20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Front/rear parking sensors
Adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking
Tyre pressure sensors
Auto headlights/wipers
What is the Alfa Romeo Stelvio facelift like to drive?
Our launch route took us on some of the finest roads in the Western Cape. Full Stop. If you’re a driving enthusiast, it’s well worth experiencing the R44 to Pringle Bay and the R320 from Caledon to Hermanus.
As before, the driver of a Stelvio 2.0T Veloce Q4 has 3 drive modes to choose from: Dynamic, Normal, plus All-weather and the difference between Dynamic and Normal is quite remarkable. Dynamic mode increases the throttle responses, sharpens the steering and it’s up to you to change the gears. The all-wheel-drive setup is rear-biased and it’s such an integral aspect of the Stelvio’s on-road demeanour.
Indeed, even 5 years after making its debut, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio delivers deeply impressive on-road dynamics. The SUV’s handling balance and road holding are superb, which we attribute to the 50:50 weight distribution and, bear in mind that the Stelvio is notably lighter than its German equivalents.
We have no hesitation in declaring that the Stelvio’s quick steering setup is one of the finest in the Executive SUV segment; it offers a near-perfect combination of weighting, feel and directness.
The Stelvio’s handling is decidedly un-SUV-like – it delivers driver engagement and -enjoyment (despite its highish centre of gravity) and feels more akin to a sporty sedan than a family-sized gravel traveller.
The cabin has some lovely touches and quirks (no car of Italian descent is complete without them), such as the engine-start button on the steering wheel, comfy leather-trimmed sports seats and the crisp digital dashboard, which has a cool retro theme that’s a nod to the classic Alfa Romeos of yesteryear.
Granted, those tall gearshift paddles look over the top, but there’s a great bonus to their size. Although they are mounted to the steering column (as opposed to the tiller), your fingertips can still easily reach them if you decide to change gears while the ‘wheel is turned – plus, they feel pleasingly substantial.
Flaws? Well, there are a few. The downside to the Stelvio’s (relatively) nimble handling and rolling on large (20-inch) wheels is a ride quality that is a touch too firm on asphalt roads in average condition. Given the model’s sportiness, you’d expect an evocative soundtrack, but the Veloce emits no more than a dull 4-cylinder drone at full throttle; gear shifts are not punctuated by engineered exhaust pops either.
The Quadrifoglio, by contrast, howls gloriously. Still, if you drive the Veloce in a restrained manner (while its default drive mode is engaged), you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how refined the powertrain is.
Lastly, members of the tech-obsessed generation may find that the infotainment touchscreen in the Stelvio is too small. While we’re not asking for an iPad-sized panel (here’s looking at you, Mercedes-Benz), something a bit larger would be notably more user-friendly. Despite big improvements in finishes and build quality, you also get the impression that the Stelvio can’t quite match its German competitors.
How much does the Alfa Romeo Stelvio cost in South Africa?
The electric sunroof is a R20 000 option. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio facelift is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty as well as a 5-year/100 000 km service plan.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio continues to impress – there’s no executive SUV in the new-vehicle market that’s quite as engaging to drive… at this price point. You could opt for a Macan, but once you’ve specced the entry-level Porsche to match the Veloce’s features, it’d be a few hundred grand pricier than the Italian.
Not only is the Stelvio an absolute pleasure to drive quickly, but it has no problem portraying the family-SUV role. Its cabin and load-bay dimensions are on par for the segment, plus its standard equipment list (including the suite of advanced safety features) offers virtually everything buyers may want at this level.
Yes, even buyers who favour heightened driver engagement (not the majority in this segment, we know) will need to make a leap of faith to choose the Alfa Romeo Stelvio over a handful of safe and predictable models from more established premium marques, but if you’re willing to go for something different, that is achingly pretty and guaranteed to deliver more “smiles per mile”, then the Alfa Romeo is worth look.
