Stelvio

Make
Alfa Romeo
Segment
SUV

The Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio are already two of the most sporting vehicles in their respective classes. They're set to get even better, with the brand's latest models. The limited-edition Estrema derivatives are based upon the range-topping Veloce trim and build on it with key components from the Quadrifoglio models.

Both the Giulia and Stelvio Estrema receive the high-performance variant's limited-slip rear differential and standard Alfa Active Suspension. Already an exceptional apex assassin, the Giulia and its high-riding counterpart will undoubtedly benefit from this addition. Alfa says the advanced suspension setup is able to read the road and quickly adjust to deliver superb high-speed handling while maintaining a plush ride.

It would have been nice to see Alfa hand the Estrema twins a bit more grunt. 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque is nothing to scoff at, though, and performance is brisk - the AWD-only Stelvio hits 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, matching the rear-wheel-driven Giulia. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the Giulia shaves 0.4 seconds off its sprint time.

Sporty but subtle, the Italian duo gains carbon fiber veneer on the mirror caps and grille. Further menace is provided by the gloss black side window and B-pillar trim, matched by the equally dark alloy wheels. The Giulia wears 19-inch wheels, while the Stelvio gains larger 21-inch items. "Estrema" badging can be found on the fenders and rear of both vehicles, ensuring other road users don't mistake them for lesser derivatives.

Giulia Estrema models are privy to an optional staggered wheel package, bestowing the sports sedan with a wider rear wheel/tire combo for improved handling and a more aggressive stance. Vulcano Black does lend the Estrema models a particularly brooding presence, but it's one of four colors available, including Alfa White, Alfa Rosso, and Misano Blue. Black brake calipers are uplifted by the white-painted Alfa Romeo script.

Equally as athletic as the exterior styling is the cabin. The dashboard, steering wheel, gear lever, and door cards are finished in alluring black leather trim, replete with red stitching.

But that's not all. Carbon fiber trim festoons the dashboard and center console and adds real sporting spirit when teamed with the leather-trimmed sports seats. Both are blessed with superb levels of equipment, gaining a dual-pane sunroof, wireless phone charging, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system as standard.

Safety features are also generous, with active cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, among other items, shipping standard. Other systems are available through an optional Active Assist Plus package. We first caught a glimpse of the athletic pair earlier this month, with several spotted on a car carrier. The offerings are the first limited-edition models to be offered globally.

Price-wise, the cheapest entry-point into Estrema ownership is the Giulia RWD, at $55,090. Next up is the AWD derivative, at $57,090, followed by the Stelvio at $58,950. These prices exclude the $1,595 destination fee. It's worth noting the BMW M340i and X3 M40i are priced at $54,700 and $57,800, respectively, meaning you'd have to be a true Alfisti to consider the Estrema models over the more powerful German alternatives.