Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir
by Tim Barnes-Clay, the man behind the wheel.
Date: 01 July 2014
Italian is a romance language and the car-maker, Alfa Romeo, seems to personify the exquisite, rhythmical mother tongue.
Informally known as Alfa, the automaker has been involved in motor racing since 1911, and has a reputation for producing sports cars.
Today the brand is part of the Turin based Fiat Group and, while still sports focused, its interest is also on the small family car marketplace.
So, what sort of family motorist is going to visit an Alfa Romeo dealership? A very à la mode parent – that’s who. After all, why make your wallet lighter for a ubiquitous Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra when you can gain a gorgeous Giulietta?
Panache & Handling
The sexy Alfa seems to have caught the imagination of drivers with its blend of panache and handling. But you really need to get into the driver’s seat and engage with this Italian-born beauty to see what she’s all about.
I did just that with the Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir 170bhp Sportiva Nav and discovered 0-62mph is reached in a speedy 7.6 seconds. The car is capable of 135mph and will give you a rush if you ask for it.
Get heavy with the accelerator and you’re off in no time; drive towards the bends and the car will tuck in and bond to the road like the wheels are on rails.
Best of all; the Alfa Romeo looks unreservedly elegant when parked outside your house. The Giulietta certainly doesn’t fade in to the background like many other hatchbacks do. It sticks out – in a lovely way – and it’ll be a car you’ll never get weary of looking at.
You’ll always be pleased you bought it, and you’ll adore getting behind the wheel, with or without any offspring in the back.
Furthermore, if you’re concerned with average fuel consumption then you’re still in the right car. The 1.4 TB MultiAir 170bhp Sportiva Nav will officially do up to 49.6mpg and CO2 emissions are a respectable 131g/km.
Fabulous Purchase
Certainly, with its appearance, gifted engine, fuel-saving technology and bountiful standard kit, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a fabulous purchase.
PROS ‘N’ CONS
PROS
- Gorgeous
- Distinct
- Cost-effective
- Handling
CONS
- Average boot capacity
FAST FACTS
- Max speed: 135 mph
- 0-62 mph: 7.6 secs
- Combined mpg: 49.6
- Engine: 1368 cc, 4 cylinder, 16 valve, turbo petrol
- Max. power (bhp): 170 at 5500 rpm
- Max. torque (Ib/ft): 185 at 2500 rpm
- CO2: 131 g/km
- Price: £24,485
