Firestyle Magazine Issue 9 - Autumn 2017 | Page 33

I particularly liked the quality of the interior, the amount of chrome and leather trim and the grey and black just added that little hint of luxury. There is also a race pedigree feel to the driving position of the Alfa. The Giulietta is available with 5 different trim levels, they are all of interesting names, look in the brochure you will be surprised to find they are all prefaced with the name of Giulietta, it could be a Super, Speciale or Veloce. There is lots of storage space and the wonderful infotainment system was simplicity in itself, the satellite navigational system and the DAB digital radio even to my luddite standard was an ease of operation. I really liked the rear parking sensors and in addition the nice camera that shows you a rear view so that in a tight spot it is quite simple and easy to park. The driving dynamics of the Giulietta were well honed, well refined, well engineered and a well designed vehicle, on B twisty roads it handled like a thoroughbred, motorway cruising was effortless and the 6-speed gearbox seemed at all times to have useable ratios as opposed to some manufacturers 6th gear could be used in and around town, this made a more relaxing drive especially with the torque characteristics of the diesel engine. Five occupants could be carried with ease and boot space was more than sufficient to carry the luggage. It was also gratifying to note that the boot access was quite easy and did not have a higher lip, so that in the event you needed to load in perhaps a golf buggy or a pushchair then it was not problematic and taxing on the back. There can be little doubt that the discerning purchaser who wants something a little bit less mainstream will be tempted by the Alfa Romeo. They have an excellent warranty package of 3 years and 3 years Roadside Assistance and on the road price from £19,620 to £29,950. 33