We haven’t seen much about the standard Alfa Romeo Giulia since its debut last year. Understandably so, most car enthusiasts want to hear about the Quadrifoglio, the 503 hp M3-fighting monster. However, the standard car is arguably more important because it’s the car that most people are going to buy and the one that will compete with BMW’s very popular 3 Series, Mercedes’ highly coveted C-Class and Audi’s extremely well-rounded A4. In this new video from Carbuyer, we get a good look at the 3 Series’ newest Italian competitor.
While the Giulia Quadrifoglio is expected to be stunning looking, even the standard car is quite pretty. The rest of the segment has gone for sharp lines and scientific looking angles. However, the Giulia features subtle curves and round edges. There doesn’t seem to be a sharp angle on it and that makes it prettier than its competition. I think it could use better looking wheels than the car in this video is wearing.
On the inside, the design is fresh. As a whole, it looks quite different from its competitors. Though, it does steal some design elements from other cars, such as its infotainment screen with is a clear copy of BMW’s iDrive. The only real complaint with the Giulia’s cabin is that some of its quality lacks, such as the infotainment screen and buttons, and there are some scratchy plastics down low. Aside from that, though, and the Giulia’s cabin is a nice place to be.
In terms of driving dynamics, it’s right up there with the best in the segment. Many enthusiasts feel as if the Jaguar XE is the best driving car in the class and this Giulia is right there with it. The 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel in this car can be a bit growly, but it has good power and hustles the car well. Alfa uses a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission, as does everyone else now. It works perfectly well in Giulia form and has wonderful aluminum paddles mounted to the steering column.
As for practicality, the Giulia can’t quite match some of its German rivals. The trunk is nicely size and has a good opening but its back seat can be cramped. The rear seats cannot accommodate three adults and headroom is rather cramped. Though, three adults would be difficult to fit in the back of any car in the segment, head and leg room are better in the 3 Series and A4.
Overall, the Alfa Romeo Giulia would be a fine car for anyone who wants a premium sport sedan with a bit more character than the typical Germans.