Alfa's 147 replacement, with its attractive looks and 5-door configuration is finally here, giving hatchback fans a new option in their list

Photos: Low Fai Ming

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta has made its way to Singapore today, representing the DNA of Alfa Romeo: essential style capable of conveying powerful emotions, technical research which is always cutting-edge, road holding and superlative driving pleasure.

Before reaching the shores of Singapore, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta has already won numerous awards and is exalted as the safest-ever compact saloon ever tested (according to the Euro NCAP 2010 standard).

“The Giulietta does not just represent the DNA of Alfa Romeo but will also rekindle the romance with the road that genuine car enthusiasts have been waiting for. In my opinion, it is a beauty that depicts gorgeous contours, an engine that sings, and precise handling that will make any driver feel ‘one’ with the car. It is a car that is a powerful blend of performance, comfort and safety,” said Mr Melvin Goh, Managing Director of EuroAutomobile Pte Ltd, appointed Singapore dealership for Alfa Romeo and Pagani.

MultiAir Technology, adopted earlier on the Mito, guarantees the highest levels of performance and technology through a range of engines that represent the state-of-the-art in terms of technology, performance levels and eco-friendliness. The MultiAir electro-hydraulic system optimises the operation of the engine by varying the lift profile of the intake valves, cylinder by cylinder and stroke for stroke. This is benefited by improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, more power and torque.

The Giulietta is the second Group model to combine an "Alfa TCT" transmission with the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir turbo petrol engine; a distillate of technology which blends high performance levels with the lowest emissions, and fuel consumption levels in its category for petrol engines of this power rating. This Alfa Romeo Giulietta returns outstanding performance: 218 km/h top speed, 5.2 l/100 km over a combined cycle, 121 g/km of CO2 and just 7.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h.

In addition, thanks to the implementation of the ‘Start & Stop’ system, petrol consumption is 10% less.

The Giulietta is equipped with the Alfa DNA system, a device that enables the driver to adjust the engine responses depending on their requirements. The selector has 3 driving modes; “D” Dynamic, “N” Normal and “A” All Weather. In “D” it delivers a sporty response by increasing the turbo boost, stiffening the steering and suspension and shortening the gearshift times. In “N”, the engine and gear charges are more leisurely, delivering greater fuel economy in the drive. In “A”, All Weather, particularly on poor road surfaces, the gear change is then restricted to maximise traction.

Much to the advanced ergonomics in the interior design, every switch is ideally located: the main ones are grouped together at the centre of the dashboard and feature the same design as those found on the 8C Competizione. The navigation system with pop-up display allows drivers to safely display the route or the mechanical operating parameters set by the Alfa DNA device without having to take their eyes off the road.

More specifically, the dominant concept in the interiors of the Giulietta: lightness. The lines are clean and the dashboard develops horizontally. The seats are comfortable and their shape is designed to ensure maximum comfort during long journeys.

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is available for viewing at the Alfa Romeo showroom located at 11 Leng Kee Road. It is priced at $156,800, with COE.