Alfa Romeo Guilietta 1.4 Turbo MultiAir Review: Alfa's DNA test

What we like:

Distinctive Italian style

smooth revving engine

lively performance

its an Alfa Romeo

What we dislike:

Cramped rear

stubborn gearbox

slightly odd driving position

lifeless steering

Up front, the driver is greeted by the twin hooded instrument binnacles that is a regular feature on recent Alfa interiors. Once again, the use of Italian grammar like ‘acqua’ and ‘giri’ on the instruments’ type face ignites the senses. The circular air vents from recent models though, have given way to slimmer, rectangular ones. The centre console features large, easy to operate knobs for the climate control as well as a neat row of toggle switches for minor controls. Overall perceived quality levels are generally OK for an Italian model – most of the Giulietta cabin’s exposed surfaces feel soft enough to the touch while the new switchgear work with reasonable tactility.

The front seats are comfortable enough but the driving position feels a tad unnatural somewhat – despite a highly adjustable driver’s seat and steering column, it feels like the steering wheel is positioned too close to the driver. Things are hardly rosy for rear passengers as well – the Giulietta’s rear is below average when it comes to rear legroom, so much so that it might feel a tad cramped in here when compared to the class benchmark, the Volkswagen Golf. The boot fares better on the utility front – the Giulietta’s trunk offers a reasonably sized and shaped cargo area for load lugging duties.

Safety is high on the Giulietta’s agenda – it has been awarded a full five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests thanks to passive safety features like a plethora of airbags, a stiff and rigid body and so on.

In the world of Volkswagen Golfs and Ford Focuses, the Giulietta cuts a unique shape and character that only an Alfa Romeo can deliver. The Giuletta has its obvious flaws but its unique Italian charm and style that encompasses the Alfa DNA will surely win the hearts and minds of petrol heads and Alfistis alike.

Credits: Story by Raymond Lai Photos by Yang and Raymond Lai