The generous Giulietta

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta has the right balance between beauty, practicality and emission-conscious motoring

Add to the list enjoyment, safety and competitive prices and the Alfa Romeo Giulietta has potential to make a significant impact on the fleet market.

It is a finely tuned car with many technical innovations to make it green and fuel-efficient. The diesel line-up benefits from a Multijet II engine which optimises fuel consumption by precisely controlling the quantity of fuel injected into the cylinder, with a quicker and more flexible injection sequence. Then there’s the stop start technology which cuts out the engine when the car is at a standstill, six gears to keep engine revs low at speed, and a gearshift indicator which discretely advises you when to change gear to achieve the best fuel economy. In addition, all Giulietta engines conform to the latest Euro 5 emissions criteria.

TAKING SAFETY SERIOUSLY
The Giulietta is also the safest car in the mid-size C segment, according to its Euro NCAP crash safety score. The list of safety features seems endless and includes anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle dynamic control, brake assistance with hill holder, numerous airbags and self aligning head restraints.

I drove the 170bhp 2.0 diesel Lusso which has a CO2 level of 124g/km and fuel consumption of 60.1 mpg on a combine cycle. It is extremely fun to drive; it’s agile, holds firm on the roads – even around the tightest corners, and the gear change is solid.
The car’s DNA system allows you to tailor the car to your driving needs and the difference is immediately felt. Dynamic is the car’s sporty mode which gives it an immediate burst of energy with sharper steering and more response. The All-weather mode gives more stability in slippery conditions and Normal mode is for is for urban/suburban driving.

GOOD LOOKING
Looks wise, the Giulietta is very attractive and distinct. From the side it looks like a coupe but it is actually a five door with the rear door handles neatly concealed. Inside is spacious and comfy with lots of Italian style. It has all the mod cons you’d expect; air conditioning, electric windows, blue tooth, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors and cruise control. All dials and buttons are within easy reach making it a comfortable and safe drive.
The range is priced between £16,995-£24,495 which is competitive against the competition.

The servicing interval of 21,000 miles is particularly lengthy and cuts running costs, which will make the Giulietta more appealing to business car customers.
Back in 1954, the Giulietta was the first car Alfa Romeo made for the masses. Now, its revival over 50 years later has all the right ingredients to make a big impact on the driving public once again.

Written by Angela Pisanu