Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio 2024: One of the Last True Sporty SUVs with Thrills

When the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio debuted seven years ago, it redefined the concept of high-performance SUVs. Yet, despite its impressive capabilities and Italian charm, it remained somewhat overshadowed by German competitors like the BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Now, as the Stelvio Quadrifoglio nears the end of its production, Alfa Romeo bids farewell to a model that masterfully combined the practicality of an SUV with the soul of a sports car. Here’s our final test and verdict.

Dimensions and Exterior Design: Timeless Italian Beauty

The Stelvio Quadrifoglio continues to turn heads with its striking design. At 4.71 meters long, 1.95 meters wide, and 1.68 meters tall, it retains an elegant yet muscular profile. The iconic “Trilobo” grille, flanked by sharp adaptive LED headlights, instantly identifies it as an Alfa Romeo, while functional air intakes and quad exhaust tips emphasize its sporty character.

The 2024 update brought subtle improvements, including new matrix LED headlights and a redesigned rear light signature, ensuring the Stelvio Quadrifoglio remains captivating. The limited Super Sport version takes it up a notch with exposed carbon fiber accents, exclusive 21-inch wheels, and unique colors like Rosso Etna and Verde Montreal.

Interior: A Blend of Performance and Elegance

Inside, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio strikes a balance between sportiness and luxury. Carbon fiber inserts on the dashboard, center console, and door panels underscore its racing DNA. Leather and Alcantara seats adorned with the Quadrifoglio logo provide excellent support for spirited driving while remaining comfortable for long trips.

For 2024, Alfa Romeo introduced a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with customizable displays, including the “Heritage” mode inspired by classic Alfa dashboards and the “Race” mode for thrilling experiences. However, the infotainment system, despite updates, still feels dated compared to rivals, with a small screen and slow responsiveness. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included but require a wired connection.

Performance: Ferrari DNA in an SUV

At the heart of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio lies its gem: a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine developed in collaboration with Ferrari. Producing 520 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque, it propels this nearly two-ton SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. With a top speed of 283 km/h, it remains one of the fastest SUVs on the market.

The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission delivers precise shifts, especially when using the large aluminum paddle shifters mounted on the steering column. The true magic, however, lies in the Q4 all-wheel-drive system, which prioritizes the rear wheels for an engaging driving experience. Adaptive suspension and torque vectoring ensure remarkable stability and agility, whether on winding roads or the track.

Driving Experience: Precision and Passion

Few SUVs can match the Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s driving dynamics. The platform it shares with the Giulia sedan gives it a near-perfect weight distribution (50/50), while the double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear system provide exceptional cornering precision.

In everyday use, the Stelvio surprises with its comfort. The adaptive suspension absorbs road imperfections, and the cabin remains quiet—except when the V6 roars enchantingly at full power. The DNA Pro driving modes let you tailor the experience, from comfortable cruising to exhilarating sporty drives.

Practicality and Flaws

As spectacular as it is, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio isn’t without flaws. Rear passenger space is more restricted than in some competitors, and the 525-liter trunk, though decent, is outclassed by larger SUVs. Additionally, the infotainment system lags behind the innovation level expected in this segment.

Against the Competition: Can Passion Outshine Technology?

The Stelvio Quadrifoglio occupies a unique niche. Compared to the BMW X3 M and Porsche Macan Turbo, it delivers a more visceral and emotional driving experience, thanks to its Ferrari-inspired V6 and Italian charm. However, its German rivals surpass the Alfa in onboard technology, build quality, and brand recognition.

Pricing and Availability: Luxury Comes at a Price

The Stelvio Quadrifoglio starts at €103,000, while the more exclusive Super Sport version comes at an even higher price. While this positions it among the elite in its segment, the Stelvio offers a rare combination of style, performance, and character that justifies the cost.

Conclusion: A Memorable Farewell

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is not just another SUV. This Quadrifoglio proves that practicality and passion can coexist, that an SUV can still stir the soul. As it exits the stage, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio cements its legacy as one of the most thrilling high-performance SUVs ever created.

Pros:

  • Mesmerizing V6 engine
  • Exceptional driving dynamics
  • Captivating Italian design

Cons:

  • Outdated infotainment system
  • Limited rear space
  • High price tag

http://www.alfaromeo.be

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