Positioned against the Jaguar F-Pace and Porsche Macan, Alfa Romeo is close to wrapping up the development of their first SUV, the Stelvio.
However, unlike the usual strategy that implies the introduction of regular versions first, it is expected to be launched in a range-topping version, powered by the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, sourced from the Giulia QV.
In the sedan, the mill is good for 503 HP and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque, but since the Stelvio is believed to use a re-tuned version, with increased torque, it might not go on sale as a QV model, as Autocar writes. In the range-topper, power will reportedly be sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which will be the sole choice, to save weight and add agility, but lesser variants will have a manual gearbox and all-wheel drive as well.
In Europe, high-volume sales will come from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ 2.2-liter diesel engine, which will be offered in 150 HP, 180 HP and 210 HP guises, joined by a 2.0-liter unit, producing 200 HP, 250 HP and 280 HP, respectively; a plug-in hybrid model remains a possibility too.
Overseeing the development of the Stelvio is Roberto Fedeli, Ferrari’s former technical director, who was credited for the Prancing Horse’s exotics made between 2007 and 2014, including the 458 Italia, F12 Berlinetta and LaFerrari. Fedeli rejoined FCA earlier this year, coming from his job with the BMW‘s M division, and is said to report directly to Harald Wester, the Alfa Romeo and Maserati chief.
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