The Alfa Romeo Stelvio manifests the sophisticated grace found in the brand’s sedans. From the inverted triangular grille to the hourglass C-pillar and aggressive rear diffuser, there’s no mistaking the intent of this luxury SUV. Catch one note of those 505 horses and you’ll see what we mean.

Though Alfa Romeo’s lineup might be small, there’s plenty of power and value to be had. We’re not just talking about the 4C Spider, either. The 2021 Stelvio blends style, speed, and grace in a way only the Italians know how to achieve.

Check out everything we know about the 2021 Stelvio below. It’s a powerful SUV, if you’re looking to get a bit more out of driving than the average commuter. Can you see yourself behind the wheel of a brand-new Stelvio? It might not be from one of the big, traditional North American brands. Or even the more popular luxury European offerings like BMW or Mercedes. However, you’d be making a big mistake to ignore this beauty.

Performance Specifications

The 2021 Stelvio draws power from a base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s capable of 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. Available in both rear- and all-wheel drive, the Stelvio has a max tow rating of 3,000 pounds.

Quadrifoglio models make use of a Ferrari-sourced 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This upgraded powerplant is capable of 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This Alfa might not have the same curb appeal as a Ferrari, but it sure does its best to keep up.

Trimlines and Pricing

There are four trim levels available on the 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The entry price keeps it affordable for those looking to get their foot in the door, while the highest end models combine power and luxury into a unique package.

Sprint

Starting at $41,450, the base 2021 Stelvio is anything but basic. Standard features include leather seating, power front seats equipped with lumbar adjustment and memory settings, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, remote start, keyless entry, push button start, and 18-inch wheels.

Ti

A set of 19-inch Y-spoke wheels aren’t the only upgrades on this mid-level trim. You’ll also enjoy heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, genuine oak interior accents, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, navigation, and a variety of available packages that will keep the goods coming. This version starts at $47,100.

Ti Sport

Though it can’t boast Quadrifoglio numbers, this Sport model will tickle the fancy of any enthusiast. Building on the Ti model, this experience-based model includes features such as dark exhaust tips, a rear diffuser, a limited-slip rear differential, 20-inch wheels, and sport seating designed to keep you comfortable as you power through your drive. A sport steering wheel and tuned suspension will have you seamlessly glued to the road. Budget at least $50,300 for the Ti Sport version.

Quadrifoglio

Even without the 505 horsepower, this top trim level has a lot to offer. A carbon fiber driveshaft and DNA Pro Drive Mode Selector set this model apart, along with six-piston Brembo brakes. The “F1-inspired engineering” can be seen from every angle, from the V Scudetto Grille, along the hood, and all the way back to the rear diffuser. The more powerful engine will go 0-to-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Sure, you’re paying more ($80,750) mostly for the engine. But we’re certainly not going to tell you it’s not worth it – because it absolutely is!

Available Colors

Once you choose your favorite trim, take a look at the following colors. They’re sure to complement the 2021 Stelvio’s shape well.

  • Rosso Competizione Tri-Coat
  • Alfa Rosso
  • Vulcano Black Metallic
  • Silverstone Gray Metallic
  • Vesuvio Gray Metallic
  • Rosso Villa d’Este
  • Rosso GTA
  • Ocra GT Junior
  • Verde Montreal
  • Stromboli Gray Metallic
  • Trofeo White Tri-Coat
  • Lunare White Meatllic
  • Verde Visconti Metallic
  • Alfa White

Safety Features

The 2021 Stelvio has not yet been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Basic standard equipment on the 2021 Stelvio includes a back-up camera, rear parking sensors, and forward collision warning. More advances features like highway and traffic jam assist, lane keep assist, driver attention alert, active blind spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition can be added to higher trim levels, at an additional cost.

Fuel Efficiency

Base engine versions of Stelvio models achieve 22 city and 29 highway EPA-estimated miles per gallon (MPG). Naturally, the Quadrifoglio model reduces those numbers significantly. The more powerful engine drops fuel economy to 17 MPG and 23 MPG, respectively.

Pros and Cons

Sharing the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Giulia, the Stelvio takes the basics of a sedan and optimizes them for an all-wheel drive platform. “It offers a strong engine, great handling, and more power than most of its rivals,” says TheCarHP. That pairs well with a sophisticated interior that prioritizes form without sacrificing function. The Stelvio might not be able to do everything other SUVs can, but there’s definitely a sense of prestige in every element of the model.

“The Stelvio makes a sporty statement inside and out and we like that,” says another review. This isn’t a vehicle you take on a hum-drum drive down to the grocery store. The car itself is a statement, one that oozes style and grace without slipping into a sleepy dream of heavy panels and a sluggish drivetrain.

Edmunds noted that its “distinctive styling helps it stand out from the crowd.” CNET’s Roadshow explains further that the SUV’s smaller engine “helps give the Stelvio a weight distribution that is close to the ideal 50/50 split between front and back.” Perhaps this is what contributes to the “sharp steering and precise handling” drivers love so much.

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio does take a few missteps, however. It’s “missing some of the latest tech features,” according to Edmunds. The model also isn’t what you’d call cutting-edge, but it’s close. Speaking of close quarters, the cargo volume of the Stelvio won’t exactly accommodate a big shopping spree at the local mall. With the new 2021 Alfa Romeo Tonale cresting the horizon, you may find the smaller (and cheaper) crossover to be a better match for your lifestyle.

Competitors

Other models to consider in this segment include the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Jaguar F-Pace. Each of these contenders sports a base price similar to the Stelvio, but offers distinctive amenities. The various options could separate customers, depending on what their needs are. For instance, the F-Pace can’t quite match the Q5 when it comes to interior sophistication. However, either would find it hard to compare to the interior of the Benz. It’s all a matter of personal prefernce.

The 2021 Stelvio “is a testament to Italy’s reputation for excellence in performance, design and the combination of both.” From bumper to bumper and tire to roof, the Stelvio is a well-tuned machine. This modern Italian chariot is much more than a basic SUV with an Alfa badge slapped on the hood. It’s an expression of luxury that many find irresistible.

The Last Word

Alfa Romeo outfits the 2021 Stelvio with plenty of luxurious options to keep the pickiest of drivers happy. The aggressive stance and dynamic lines let everyone on the road know you’re on the scene. If you’re interested in the 2021 Stelvio, check it out at your local dealership. You may find yourself leaving with a pair of keys and a new ride.

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Source: AlfaRomeoUSA.com

Rebecca Henderson has a Master's in German and a Bachelor's in Creative Writing. She alternates her time between writing and working on a variety of motorized projects. Most recently, she and her boyfriend have been building a custom drift trike. Rebecca believes that language, love, and a life worth living are only the first ingredients to happiness.