Stelvio Quadrifoglio Final Drive: The Best SUV Alfa Romeo Ever Built?
- Marc Gonzalez
- Jun 11
- 5 min read
In the past decade, the term "Sport Utility Vehicle" (SUV) has been used loosely within the automotive industry. Many vehicles labelled as SUVs tend to prioritize utility over sportiness, if they even qualify as sporty at all. However, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio was a standout; we're using the past tense, as the model has unfortunately been discontinued. With its powerful V6 engine and exhilarating driving dynamics, it's in a league of its own. Whether you're considering one of the last remaining new models available or searching for a used one with some mileage, read on as we explore the details of this remarkable driving machine. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio tested had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $109,440 and was built at the Cassino, Italy plant.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio debuted in 2016 as a 2017 model, marking the Italian automaker's strategic move into the SUV market to boost sales and enhance brand visibility, particularly in North America, where the brand had been largely absent for nearly three decades. Built on the same platform as the Giulia sedan, the compact Stelvio quickly gained acclaim for embodying Alfa Romeo's driver-focused philosophy. Its design was impressively executed from the outset, and the automaker has maintained its essence over the years, with only minor updates in 2023, such as new LED headlights and taillights.
The Stelvio's exterior remains strikingly modern, boasting a bold, aggressive stance that commands attention. The 21-inch classic 5-hole aluminum wheels, red brake callipers, and the iconic four-leaf clover emblem on the front fenders underscore its performance pedigree. While the rear design is more understated than the front, the compact LED brake lights and quad-exhaust system ensure a lasting impression (check out the clip on our social media pages). Nearly a decade into its production, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio continues to turn heads, earning praise for its seamless blend of luxury and sportiness.
Inside, there's no way around it; the Alfa Romeo Stelvio's interior is outdated. It has a mismatch of carbon fibre, underwhelming plastics and a small amount of Alcantara. There's a tiny bit of Alcantara and carbon fibre on the steering wheel, but overall, it feels too «normal.» The window switches don't feel particularly luxurious; neither do the air vents or the small sunroof. On a positive note, the seats offer plenty of support for spirited driving, so your body doesn't move around as you're zipping into corners, even though they aren't Sparco seats (available as a $4,500 option). While they are still harder than your typical luxury vehicle, they do an adequate job driving the Stelvio.
In the driver's seat, the steering wheel features a large red button marked "Start Engine Stop," which is self-explanatory, along with small buttons controlling the menus on the new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the cruise control commands. Moving on, in the middle, you can find the small 8.8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; it is still rather small compared to the rest of the category. Fornatutely, you can also use the closest to the center console knob to navigate in the menus without having to look at the screen directly for too long. Regarding the knobs, the drive mode selector and radio controls are positioned relatively close to each other near the gear lever. Whether this was intentional by the Italian automaker, we amusingly ended up switching into Dynamic mode instead of increasing the volume.
As for the rest of the interior, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio fits right in the middle against the competition. Four adults can fit inside; the middle seat is once again a backup option due to the bump on the floor. Other rivals are slightly larger, such as the Genesis GV70 and Volvo XC60, but the Stelvio isn't significantly smaller than the new BMW X3 or the Mercedes GLC. Getting in the back can be tricky due to its profiled design; once inside, the rear seat occupants can find two air vents, two USB-A ports, and heated seat controls. The ISOFIX ports are indicated, and parents can easily reach the rear anchors. The rear bench can be folded down in the cargo area using a lever, but you cannot fold it back up the same way. You need to access it from the passenger's side. The cargo room is adequate; you can also find a spare tire underneath.
Let's cut to the chase: the defining feature of this vehicle is its powertrain. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is fitted with a Ferrari-derived, twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V-6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The numbers are impressive: 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, a 283 kph top speed and a 3.8 sec 0-100 kph time. The numbers don't even provide the whole picture; the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is a driver's car in its purest form. When you press the red button on the steering wheel, the rumbling sound is satisfying, and the vibes are immaculate! The quad exhaust is the perfect complement for this powertrain; the loud pop personally took me aback during a cold start. As soon as you start driving the vehicle, it isn't easily destabilized; the ride is firm and planted, even in stiff corners. The steering is direct and precise; you can pinpoint exactly where to put the Stelvio. The suspension is harsher due to the vehicle's nature; the trade-off is understandable and greatly appreciated. Of course, the Q4 all-wheel drive system plays a big part in making sure that each wheel gets the proper grip to propel the car as fast as possible. Finally, we cannot forget the brakes; the Italian automaker equipped the Stelvio Quadrifoglio with ample braking power, courtesy of Brembo brakes at the front and rear. Simply put, it is a one-of-a-kind vehicle with plenty of fun to experience behind the wheel.
Overall, after spending a couple of days with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, we experienced immense joy and were truly grateful, as it is an exceptional machine at a relatively affordable price, especially in the used market. The ride is closer to a sports car; there's no other way to put it, and it's a shame that this engine and trim were discontinued since Ferrari ended its partnership with Alfa. Anyway, look no further if you're looking for a vehicle to drive the kids to kindergarten or school on weekdays and to the track on weekends. You should tell your partner not to miss this chance to enjoy the best of both worlds; you combine business and pleasure. Whether looking at one of these new or used, you cannot go wrong!
Disclaimer: Alfa Romeo has lent us this vehicle for a one-week press loan. We have no affiliation with Alfa Romeo Canada. The above reflects our personal opinion of the cars referred to above.
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