Alfa Romeo Giulietta MultiAir Road test

Giulietta showcases clever new MultiAir "downsized" engine technology - a direct injection turbocharged 1368cc petrol engine with sophisticated variable valve timing and lift functions. From 1.4-litres, it develops a lively 125kW at 5500rpm and has 250Nm of torque easily accessible at 2500rpm to match the output of 2.0-litre and slightly bigger naturally aspirated engines.


For the meantime, there is no automatic transmission available. A dual clutch TCT option for the Giulietta hasn't reached New Zealand yet, leaving a six-speed manual as the sole choice. For the Kiwi market where two-pedal cars play the dominant role that will limit the sales potential of the Giulietta but it does suit the punchy little turbo engine.


Even in Dynamic mode, the powertrain requires something of a reset of Alfa expectations. It's not a four-cylinder with lumpy cams and cackly exhaust or a buzzy boxer-four like the old Alfa 33 that is one of Giulietta's predecessors.


The performance comes in a more muscular style with turbo boosted torque playing a bigger role than revs. It's quite a different style of Alfa performance to have the gearshift indicator light suggesting that sixth gear and 1200rpm is an appropriate choice for cruising at about 55km/h.

But such are the combined marvels of direct injection, turbocharging and variable intake systems that it will do that without the Giulietta feeling laboured.