No question, the Giulietta is a better class of Alfa, and vastly more convincing than the Mito. Its competitiveness stems from the excellence of a platform that delivers on chassis dynamics, packaging, safety and also refinement (road noise apart).
Unusually by the standards of recent Alfas, the Giulietta rides well. Even the hottest Cloverleaf version (we use the term hottest loosely – it’s not exactly scorching in terms of performance or handling) rides comfortably.
Handling is entertaining, if not class leading – this is an Alfa that rewards the average driver, but won’t thrill enthusiasts. Let’s just call it a good all-rounder – not a bad place to be if Alfa was aiming at the Volkswagen Golf.
Alfa’s latest range of engines have the beating of most rivals – they deliver strong performance and good economy. You’ll have plenty of fun and still smile when you see the fuel gauge.
Prices are competitive and equipment levels in the mid-spec Lusso models are pretty good, too. You’ll also be impressed by the quality of fixtures and fittings inside the car.
Flaws include a lack of room in the driver’s footwell and a compromised driving position, a back seat that isn’t the most inviting in the class, plus road noise that can be wearing and a number of other irritations you simply won’t find in most rivals.
However, these issues aren’t enough to eliminate the Giulietta, especially when they’re countered by dynamic verve that few competitors can muster. Factor in style, exclusivity and glamour and the Giulietta becomes the company’s most competitive model for years.
