Alfa's DNA - An automatic choice on new Giulietta

Ian Bond puts the Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT hatchback through is GreenFleet paces and thoroughly enjoys the ride.

The first thing that struck me about the Giulietta TCT was the stylish exterior. The interior is equally as striking - the red leather seats and dashboard that resembles those on classic sports cars. You immediately start looking forward to the driving experience, and it didn’t let me down.

The Giulietta has a strong range of engines, all of which are turbocharged. I had the Lusso 2.0 JTDM-2 170 bhp, which offers a number of enhancements over and above the main Turismo standard equipment.

So here’s some technical stuff. The Alfa TCT gives you the benefits of automatic and manual transmissions. It uses an efficient arrangement for a semi-automatic transmission, a dual dry clutch which helps reduce drag and friction.

In effect, the car uses two gearboxes – one for odd and one for even gears. This means it is already prepared for the next gear change, providing a seamless take over.

DNA
The Alfa DNA system is another stand out feature of the Giulietta. The car works in conjunction with the DNA, altering the semi automatic dual dry clutch response to match the setting of the DNA. Placing the selector into ‘Dynamic’ mode makes the car behave in a sporty fashion. All inputs are heightened: steering feel, throttle response and vehicle control systems. With the switch in ‘Normal’ for everyday driving, you’ll find fuel consumption is reduced to a minimum whilst offering a smooth and comfortable drive. In ‘All Weather’ mode the Giulietta alerts all active safety systems – the response of the engine becomes more gradual and cautious.

So what else struck me about the general features of the car? Well, although very neatly laid out some might wonder where all the ‘gadgety’ bits are. The main thing you notice very quickly is that although these are not obvious at first, before long you find yourself enjoying the drive and comfort. All of the things you need are there, from the front armrest hosting a useful storage compartment to the rear seat armrest which opens up to give you extra cup holders for your passengers. Small features, but it’s those little things that make the difference.

The multifunctional display and trip computer provides a whole range of information. I found the ability to see fuel consumption as you were driving most useful, along with the average fuel consumption on each trip. On normal, everyday ‘driving around town’ I was getting 53mpg. On a longer motorway journey this increased to around 64mpg. For a car of this engine size, and with the comfort you have alongside, I think these were pretty good results.

Smooth transition
Two other features that impressed me were, firstly, the standard ‘start/stop’ system, which worked remarkably well, producing a very smooth transition each time I moved after being stuck in traffic. Secondly, the rear parking sensors make it very easy for you to reverse without the worry of the car behind.

Other safety features as standard include intelligent driver and passenger airbags with a de-activation switch, electronic traction control and ABS.

A full tank will manage a range of 829 miles, and with a top speed of 135mph, this car is certainly no slouch. O-60 mph is achieved in just under eight seconds.

All in all, the Alfa Giulietta TCT performed well. I found it very zippy when you want it to be whilst providing a very comfortable, steady drive when required. A good choice for fleets that are looking for something a little more special for passengers.