The Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio were designed to compete with the likes of BMW and Mercedes, but there’s no denying they are a little rough around the edges when it comes to quality, especially perceived quality.
Aside from technical and mechanical problems, the vehicles have a cabin that just isn’t up to snuff. However, it appears the company is acknowledging this as the 2020 models will bring a host of upgrades.
According to what looks like an official FCA North America document posted on Autopareri, the 2020 Giulia and Stelvio will come with a revised interior that features a new steering wheel (not that there was anything wrong with the current one), center console, shifter and switchgear. We’ve already seen some of these updates in spy photos, but the forum also posted clearer pictures of the center console.
Also Read: Facelifted Alfa Romeo Stelvio Spied For The First Time Inside And Out
As you can see, the cheap plastic gearshift surround has been jettisoned. The console has also been redesigned and it looks slimmer than before. We can also see new controls for the infotainment system and trimmings and a subtle Italian flag accent. In addition, the electronic parking brake button has been moved up next to the gear lever while the center console arm rest has been reshaped.
Besides those updates, the vehicles will now come standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. That doesn’t sound too unusual, but the current model uses an old school 6.5-inch display which isn’t even a touchscreen.
Speaking of the infotainment system, it promises “enhanced graphics, new functionality and enhanced adaptability.” That’s a little vague, but the document says drivers can expect a one year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio as well as one year of access to connected services.
Speaking of technology, the Giulia and Stelvio are slated to have the “most advanced” Highway Assist system from FCA. The company goes onto say this semi-autonomous Level 2 system will be comparable to Tesla’s autopilot. The models will also have newly standard driver assistance systems including forward collision alert.
Exterior changes will apparently be minor, but include two new paint options called Anodized Blue and Lunare White. Higher-end versions of the Stelvio are also slated to ditch the black plastic body cladding for body-colored trim.
Besides the aforementioned changes, the various trim levels will feature greater differentiation. The number of options will also be reduced as the documents says the number of buildable configurations will be cut by over 90%.
The document doesn’t mention any performance changes, so it’s possible engine options will carryover. As a result, US-spec models could be equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 280 hp (209 kW / 284 PS) and 306 lb-ft (415 Nm) of torque. The Quadrifoglio variants should also retain their twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 which develops 505 hp (377 kW / 512 PS) and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque.