Alfa Romeo has pulled the covers off its first sedan-based SUV named the Stelvio, which was revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Available with either a mere 280hp (208kW) from the 2.0-liter Ti version, or a raucous, flame-throwing 505hp (377kW) from the Quadrifoglio top edition, the Stelvio takes many of its styling cues from the new Giulia saloon.
Equipped with a Ferrari-derived 2.9-litre, bi-turbo petrol V6, and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission the new Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s engine is constructed entirely of aluminium to reduce weight.
The performance SUV is also equipped with Alfa Romeo’s Q4 all-wheel-drive system, which sends 100 per cent of the power to the rear wheels in most cases, and can shift as much as 50 per cent to the front axle should it be needed.
The Italian manufacturer says this lends the Stelvio Quadrifoglio all the advantages of four-wheel drive, good fuel economy, responsive performance and the driving experience of a rear-wheel-drive car.
Alfa Romeo’s torque vectoring technology has also been paired with the Q4 system for the first time. This enables power to be transferred to the ground more effectively, providing better grip, as well as a safer and more entertaining drive.
The Stelvio Quadrifoglio also gains the new Alfa DNA Pro selector, which lets the driver switch between Dynamic, Natural, Advanced Efficiency and Race driving modes.
First appearing on the Giulia saloon, Alfa Romeo’s Integrated Brake System is also installed on the Stelvio Quadrifoglio. This combines stability control with a traditional servo brake to ensure instant response from the brakes, as well as shorter stopping distances and optimised weight.
Inside, the Stelvio features a new Connect 3D Navigation unit, which was developed in partnership with Magneti Marelli and features an 8.8-inch display.
Alfa Romeo has also confirmed that the Stelvio will be available with a less powerful, 276bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This is also fashioned out of aluminium, and will be paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
