Like Willem, I have a soft spot for Alfas: people and brands that do things differently, and with flair, will always resonate with me. That’s why I was a bit disappointed with the top-of-the-range Giulietta 1750 TBi QV. I expected quirky Italian flair; I got almost German efficiency and no soul.
The numbers 1750 took me back to my childhood, when the two-door 1750 GTs and the four-door Berlina sedans were the cars to have because they were so gorgeous. The new car looks beautiful from some angles, and odd from others, I’m afraid.
The experts also agree that the old twin-cam 1750cc was one of the finest powerplants the Italian company has made. This engine is a 1.8 litre turbocharged motor that puts out 173kW, promising flashing pace. Problem is: few testers in this country, even at the coast, have been able to match the factory’s claim of 0 to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds. Our team on Star Motoring got a best of 7.8. Admittedly that was at altitude, but the time was easily bettered by one of the Alfa’s competitors, the VW Golf 6 GTi.
And seconds are important to car buyers spending about R330 000. The 1750 feels, subjectively anyway, not that quick. And it doesn’t seem to have the flair that its smaller-engined siblings have – to say nothing about the Mito, a nice little firecracker.
The Giulietta is well put together, with nary a rattle in the cabin and a feel of solidity – something Alfa is not really known for. And the level of luxury was also a surprise: the car is well-equipped for the price.
Although it takes some getting used to, the Giulietta 1750 quickly becomes a very pleasing place to spend time. The tactile quality of the materials in the cabin, coupled with good, direct steering and a slick gear change, remind you that the Italians have not forgotten about making cars for drivers.
Drive it as an executive express, rather than a frenetic hot hatch, and you will be satisfied. But with an Alfa, you don’t want to be satisfied, you want to be exhilarated. – Brendan Seery