Model Tested: 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 280 horsepower, 306 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 23-mpg city/31-mpg highway/26-mpg combined
Base Price: $41,995
As Tested: $49,340
Performance:
Exhilarating performance; a true sport sedan
Sport suspension is great on twisty roads

Precision steering and chassis
Powerful engine with an enthusiastic exhaust note
All-wheel-drive
Three drive modes: D=dynamic (sport), N=normal, A= advanced efficiency (Eco)
Powerful Brembo brakes
Nice tractable car around town
An IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Great fun to drive
Comfort:
Superb high performance front sports seats
Power adjustable side bolsters for tight secure fit

Power adjustable lumbar support both front seats
Manual adjustable thigh support
Stretch-out front legroom
Rear legroom compromised by front seats
Rear seats OK if fronts up significantly
Thick, nicely contoured heated leather steering wheel with flat bottom
Good range tilt/telescopic steering column
Excellent headroom
Very tall rear seat floor tunnel
Tight rear seat access
Utility:
Small door bins
Two flimsy seatback cargo nets

Medium locking glovebox dominated by owner’s manual
Small, narrow sunvisors slide 3-inches
Dim lighting on vanity mirrors
Medium size trunk with flat floor
Small trunk lid opening
Rain sensitive wipers
WOW Factors:
Great driving experience
It’s a car you want to drive
Sharp, aggressive styling including iconic Alfa grille
Top-notch driver/front passenger accommodations

Whines:
Awkward rear seat ingress/egress
Snug backseat accommodations
Limited interior storage bins
Bottom Line:
The 2017 Alfa Romeo Guilia is an exciting, very engaging compact luxury sport sedan. It’s very much a driver’s car placing a premium on performance and front row comfort. Additional passengers and cargo are welcome, but not warmly. The Alfa Romeo Guilia relies more on charm and overall driving pleasure than gimmicky technology. In today’s advancing autonomous transportation scene the Alfa is a welcome throwback.
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