It’s a common question for automotive journalists: “What’s your favorite car?” While the answer often varies depending on the day or the type of vehicle recently tested, for 2020, one SUV clearly stood out: the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio. This performance SUV isn’t just a vehicle; it’s an experience, a thrilling blend of Italian passion and driving dynamics that’s hard to forget. Let’s delve into what makes the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio so special.
1. Distinctive Italian Styling
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio immediately captures attention with its unique exterior. The iconic triangle grille, a signature Alfa Romeo design element, is unlike anything else on the road. This bold and instantly recognizable front fascia sets the tone for the entire vehicle. The adventurous Italian styling extends to the stunning and uniquely designed wheels, featuring circular motifs that draw the eye and showcase intricate detail. Elements like the badging and side mirrors, crafted from Miron, a dark glass, add a touch of smoky refinement, enhancing the overall premium feel. While the Stelvio maintains a familiar SUV silhouette, its side and rear profiles are refreshingly simple and clean, allowing the distinctive front to truly shine.
Distinguishing the high-performance Quadrifoglio from the base Stelvio model requires a keen eye. The subtle 4-leaf clover badging on the front quarter panels and door sills are the main identifiers. For a vehicle in this performance and price bracket, a more pronounced visual differentiation could be desired to truly signal its top-tier status.
2. Ferrari Performance in an SUV Body
For those seeking exhilarating performance without sacrificing the practicality of an SUV, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio delivers in spades. At its heart lies a Ferrari-derived 505 horsepower engine that propels this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds. But the performance isn’t just about speed; it’s about the experience. The twin-turbo V6 engine produces an intoxicating soundtrack, a symphony of snaps, crackles, and pops that enhances every drive.
This auditory delight adds another layer to the driving experience, making it truly engaging. In terms of sheer performance, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio outpaces competitors like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and BMW X5M, solidifying its position as a leader in the performance SUV segment.
3. Rosso Competizione Red: A Standout Color
The Rosso Competizione Red paint finish is more than just a color; it’s a statement. This isn’t the standard Alfa Rosso red, but the tri-coat Rosso Competizione, an optional upgrade that elevates the visual impact to another level. The depth and sparkle of this paint are truly captivating, and it exemplifies why red has become such a desirable color for performance vehicles. This premium paint option enhances the Stelvio’s curves and lines, ensuring it turns heads wherever it goes.
4. Fiery Red Contrast Interior
Stepping inside the Stelvio Quadrifoglio reveals an interior that’s just as striking as its exterior. The red leather accents aren’t confined to the seats; they boldly adorn the dash and doors, creating a vibrant and luxurious atmosphere. The carbon fiber trim and Alcantara seat inserts further enhance the sense of luxury and sportiness. The interior design is a masterclass in contrast, with red, black, and carbon fiber elements harmoniously integrated. The red contrast stitching throughout the leather and Alcantara on the seats and steering wheel adds a bespoke, handcrafted feel, reminiscent of high-end designer accessories. This attention to detail elevates the cabin beyond mere functionality, making it a genuinely special place to be.
Stelvio Quadrifoglio Pricing and Options
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio commands a premium price, reflecting its performance and exclusivity. Starting at approximately USD $82,345 (CAD $96,200), the as-tested model shown here reaches USD $94,245 (CAD $112,045) with options. Notable options include the Brembo high-performance brakes, a significant upgrade for enhanced stopping power, though colored calipers (red, blue, or yellow) are available without extra cost. The test vehicle also featured a carbon fiber steering wheel, heated rear seats, Nero Edizione Miron accents, and a safety and convenience package.
Interestingly, the test model lacked the Active Driver Assist package, which includes features like blind-spot assistance, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more. While pricing and available packages may vary for current models, it’s worth noting the features and costs associated with the 2020 model year.
Who is the Stelvio Quadrifoglio For?
The ideal buyer for the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is someone who demands both high performance and SUV practicality. This is for the driving enthusiast who needs space and all-weather capability but refuses to compromise on thrilling performance and head-turning style. It appeals to those who appreciate Italian design flair, a powerful engine with an exhilarating soundtrack, and a luxurious interior. Ultimately, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio caters to a performance-conscious buyer willing to invest in a luxury SUV that delivers an unforgettable driving experience.
Disclaimer: The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio was provided for review purposes. All opinions are independent and based on driving impressions.
