2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

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Rating6.8

Ranked #11 in 

Compact SUV
Write Review
$42,350 - $81,250
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on October 31, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Classic svelte Italian styling

Compromised cargo volume

No major changes

Enticing powertrain options

No annual maintenance plans

Somewhat affordable compared to its peers

Specs & Features

$42,350

price

280 hp @ 5200 rpm

horsepower

306 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

torque

8-Speed Automatic w/od

transmission

2.0L 4cyl RWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Competing in the compact SUV segment, the 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio goes up against other notable names in the class, like the BMW X3, the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, and the Porsche Macan. Spread across 3 trim levels, the Stelvio starts off at a base price of MSRP of $42,350 and carries on to $50,800. The standard engine is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine with 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. It reaches 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio manages to return with a combined fuel economy of 24 MPG which is just average for the class with most of the rivals reaching similar numbers. The Stelvio offers a ground clearance of 8.1 inches.

Buying Advice

Combines with its handsome looks and a memorable powertrain combo, the 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia is fun to drive and a practical car. There are no major cons that we can think of, but direct rivals do offer more horsepower but with an equally high price tag.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The Stelvio stands firm in its class, competing with the Audi Q5, Porsche Macan, and the BMW X3. The SUV houses a potent 2.0-Liter Turbocharged engine and delivers staggering acceleration, sprinting 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds. The SUV also packs in a plethora of advanced safety systems and driver aids as well.

Features
7.0/10

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes equipped with various creature comforts, advanced driver assistance technologies, a striking exterior, and potent power. If you are looking for something special, the 2021 line-up features three trim levels: Sprint, Ti, and Ti Sport. The Ti and Ti Sport models come in standard AWD configuration. They set a grander charm with bigger alloy wheels and a rear sports diffuser.

Trim

Sprint

Ti

Ti Sport

MSRP (FWD)

$41,750

NA

NA

MSRP (AWD)

$43,750

$47,400

$50,600

Key Features

18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels

Bigger 19-inch double Y-spoke alloy wheels

20-inch double Y-spoke alloy wheels

 

8.8-inch touchscreen interface

Infotainment with Navigation support

Rear Sport Diffuser

 

Premium 8-speaker sound system

14-speaker sound system by Harman Kardon

Sport front bucket seats

 

Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control

Front seats with heating feature

Bi-Xenon Headlamps and LED taillights

 

Leather upholstery

Automatic LED Headlights and LED taillights.

Sport-tuned suspension

 

Front seats with Power adjustments and reclining

Steering wheel with leather wrapping

Sports steering wheel with mounted controls

All three trims showcase splendid features to crave upon. Premium interior amenities and striking exterior design make the Stelvio stand a class apart from competitors. And a competitive price tag makes all the difference.

Which trim should you buy?

The price difference between trim levels is worthy enough. We recommend the Ti Sport model for a fulfilling ride experience. It gets all the sporty stigma. Though the powertrain remains standard across trims, Ti Sport includes all the top-notch driver aids and premium infotainment.

Fuel Economy
4.0/10

When selecting an ideal performance SUV, fuel economy does not play an essential role for most buyers. Albeit a good economy implies better refinement and thus better performance in the long term. The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio mpg figures are decent for their performance and deliver a combined mileage of 25 MPG, offering nearly 500-mile of highway driving range thanks to its big 16.9-gallon tank. The Stelvio comes ahead in offering a good balance between performance and economy.

Models

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

2021 BMW X3

2021 Audi Q5

2021 Porsche Macan

MPG (City)

22

25

22

19

MPG (Highway)

29

29

27

23

MPG (Combined)

25

27

24

21

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

16.9

17.2

18.5

19.8

Range (City/Highway/Combined, in Miles)

371.8/ 490.1/ 422.5

430.0/ 498.8/ 464.4

407.0/ 499.5/ 444.0

376.2/ 455.4/ 415.8

Stelvio's refined powertrain delivers a decent combined mileage compared with rivals. However, the new BMW X3 SUV dominates this zone with the highest fuel economy figures. Porsche Macan is a gas guzzler, though; it gets a giant fuel tank underneath that covers for at par driving range.

Interior
6.0/10

Interior comes out to be one of the most prominent selling points of the 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The Stelvio can comfortably accommodate five passengers in seats covered with leather upholstery. The front row features a heating feature and power adjustments. And Top-end Ti Sport trim equips sport bucket seats. You can feel absolute comfort during every ride with leather steering, mounted controls, and a three-zone climate control system. However, a few hard plastics managed to enter the cabin. 

The front headroom and legroom are pretty comfortable for tall passengers as well. The rear row dictates the same story as the front row. Legroom can be a bit crampy for tall occupants. The leather-trimmed seats provide decent thigh and lumbar support. Stelvio presents a wide range of creature comforts for a relaxed and comfortable ride experience.

Models

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

2021 BMW X3

2021 Audi Q5

2021 Porsche Macan

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg, in inches)

40.2/ 57.5/ 36.6

41.1/ 57.6/ 40.3

41.7/ 57.7/ 41.0

NA

Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg, in inches)

38.8/ 56.0/ 35.9

39.1/ 56.0/ 36.4

39.3/ 56.5/ 37.8

NA

Cargo Capacity (cubic feet)

18.5

28.7

25.6

17.6

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio turned out to be not that impressive with cargo and interior space. Competitors like BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are segment leaders in the interior section. A seating capacity of five and decent cargo volume is enough for extended weekend getaway plans.

Standout interior features:

  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel with heating feature
  • Leather seats with heating and power adjustments
  • Wireless charging
  • Automatic Climate Control
  • HVAC vents

What's there to keep you entertained?

Alfa Romeo has fitted the latest connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the 2021 Stelvio’s infotainment system. It also offers a digital color instrument cluster for an intuitive drive experience. It also gets a bigger 8.8-inch touchscreen interface with Bluetooth wireless and Navigation support. Music lovers can enjoy their favorite track with a Premium 14-speaker audio system by Harman Kardon.

It makes its way for a stellar improvement in the overall entertainment experience with an easy-to-use infotainment system and impeccable attention to detail.

Standout infotainment features:

  • Apple Carplay and Android Auto
  • 8.8-inch touchscreen display
  • 14-speaker premium audio system by Harman Kardon in Ti Sport Trim
  • Standard 8-speaker premium audio system
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Hands-free Bluetooth

Exterior
8.0/10

A stellar design statement makes the 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio a desirable ride. You will quickly fall in love with the unique V Scudetto grille complemented with a rear sports diffuser. The body structure feels solid and settled; Stelvio defies convention. The Italian automaker has made sure to top its flagship SUV with one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. It offers better stability and responsible handling through the best-in-class power-to-weight ratio and dynamic body structure. 

The higher trim levels get bigger 20-inch alloy wheels. The line-up provides attention-grabbing LED headlamps in base trim and Bi-Xenon headlights in the Ti Sport model. Overall stance looks modern and sporty. You can make the SUV truly yours with refreshed color selection.

Models

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

2021 BMW X3

2021 Audi Q5

2021 Porsche Macan

Curb Weight (lbs)

4044

3931

4057

4099

Length (inches)

184.6

185.9

183.6

184.9

Width (inches)

74.9

74.4

74.5

76.2

Height (inches)

66.0

66.0

65.3

63.9

Ground Clearance (inches)

NA

8.0

8.2

7.9

Wheelbase (inches)

111.0

112.8

111.0

110.5

The 2021 Stelvio is comprehensive and the tall stance along with its unique front fascia immediately grabs attention from enthusiasts. The Porsche Macan is the heaviest among competitors, while BMW X3 comes out to be the lightest. 

Standout exterior features:

  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • LED Headlamps or Bi-Xenon Headlamps
  • Unique V Scudetto grille
  • Rear Sport Diffuser
  • Massive 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels

Safety
8.0/10

The new Stelvio is built on the FCA Giorgio platform and shares its underpinnings with Alfa Romeo Giulia and Maserati Grecale. Made with high-grade materials, the Stelvio is the first SUV to feature a carbon fiber driveshaft. The Italian beast packs a plethora of advanced safety features. The portfolio includes Highway and Traffic Jam Assist, LANESENSE Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. You can drive worry-free in the city with Traffic sign recognition—great support to avoid tickets and ensure safety.

Standout safety features:

  • Highway and Traffic Jam Assist
  • LANESENSE Lane Keep Assist
  • Active Blind Spot Assist
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Traffic sign recognition

Competition
6.0/10

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs 2021 BMW X3

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio delivers excellent acceleration with a better power-to-weight ratio. Comparatively, Stelvio showcases a more striking exterior than X3. Both provide a more engaging drive experience and come with the updated infotainment system and premium audio setup. 2021 Stelvio comes equipped with a variety of advanced safety features and driver aids as well.

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Q5 turns out to be a balanced ride compared to the more aggressive Stelvio. Stelvio may be powerful but driving range is better in Audi Q5. Both cars offer comfortable interior space with the latest infotainment and comfortable seats. And the Stelvio packs a wide range of exclusive detailing along with advanced driver aids. You gotta love how the Italians design cars.

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs 2021 Porsche Macan

Stelvio and Macan offer competitive power and acceleration. Macan offers a superior exterior stance with plush interior space. Porsche Macan is heavier but gets a load of exclusive features and a potent powertrain. Between the two, it is a very difficult choice.

Final Verdict

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio strikes the right chords of style and premium vibes. The potent powertrain supports sensational acceleration and pin-sharp steering. It comes with premium leather seats and a wide range of creature comforts. The exterior styling makes you pause when you spot one on the roads. Overall, it is worth buying the new 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

Trims

    Base
    $42,350 onwards
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Front air conditioning
    • Front passenger Lumbar support
    • Parksense Parking assist
    • Remote keyless entry
    Sprint
    $42,350 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl RWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 280 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 306 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.6 sec
    • Top Speed: 122 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 25 mpg
    Ti
    $47,600 onwards
    • 19-inch machined aluminum Wheels
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Parking assist
    Ti Sport
    $50,800 onwards
    • 20-Inch wheels
    • Aluminum interior trim
    • Limited-Slip rear differential
    • Sport front seats
    Quadrifoglio
    $81,250 onwards
    • Engine: 2.9L 6cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 505 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 443 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5 sec
    • Top Speed: 155 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 19 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$42,350- $81,250

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.79

Horsepower

505 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque

443 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$38,050- $40,050

Gasoline

7.36

221 hp @ 5500 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

7

Read Review

$46,100- $83,000

Gasoline

7.23

296 hp @ 4000 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

6

Read Review

$43,300- $56,500

Gasoline

8.15

261 hp

273 lb.-ft.

5

Read Review

$43,000- $56,600

Gasoline

8.14

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$38,400- $51,000

Gasoline

7.2

272 hp @ 6500 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$59,400- $82,800

Gasoline

8.08

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

331 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$52,100- $84,600

Gasoline

7.57

248 hp @ 5000 rpm

273 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$41,700- $55,000

Gasoline

7.72

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$67,500- $127,800

Gasoline

7.98

335 hp @ 5300 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1340 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    7.6 sec15.4 sec122 mph
    2021 Audi SQ5

    Ranked #1

    4.7 sec13.6 sec155 mph
    5.1 sec--
    2021 BMW X5

    Ranked #3

    5.2 sec14.3 sec130 mph
    2021 Audi Q5

    Ranked #4

    5.7 sec14.7 sec130 mph
    2021 BMW X4

    Ranked #5

    6 sec15.1 sec130 mph

    2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg16.9 gal.371.8/490.1 mi.
      2021 BMW X3

      Ranked #1

      23 mpg29 mpg27 mpg17.2 gal.430/498.8 mi.
      23 mpg31 mpg26 mpg15.9 gal.365.7/492.9 mi.
      23 mpg29 mpg26 mpg16 gal.368/464 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg16.2 gal.356.4/469.8 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg18.8 gal.413.6/545.2 mi.

      2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        184.6 in.74.9 in.66 in.8.1 in.111 in.
        2021 BMW X5

        Ranked #1

        194.3 in.78.9 in.68.7 in.8.7 in.117.1 in.
        193.7 in.78.1 in.66.8 in.7.4 in.114 in.
        189.6 in.74.9 in.66.1 in.7.8 in.112.5 in.
        188.9 in.76.1 in.65.6 in.8.4 in.113.1 in.
        2021 BMW X4

        Ranked #5

        187.5 in.75.5 in.63.8 in.7.2 in.112.8 in.

        2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          18.5 cu.ft.116.1 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.
          31.5 cu.ft.177.4 cu.ft.148.9 cu.ft.
          19.4 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          34.4 cu.ft.-66.8 cu.ft.
          29.7 cu.ft.103 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.
          27.2 cu.ft.-60.3 cu.ft.

          2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            323.1 cu.ft.18.5 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.-
            92 cu.ft.19.4 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.-
            -32.7 cu.ft.55.6 cu.ft.-
            2021 Audi SQ5

            Ranked #4

            57.5 cu.ft.25.8 cu.ft.54 cu.ft.76 ft.
            29.9 cu.ft.30 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.-
            58.3 cu.ft.15.6 cu.ft.58.3 cu.ft.-

            2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              3000 lbs.1346 lbs.3901 lbs.
              7716 lbs.1984 lbs.4550 lbs.
              7700 lbs.1657 lbs.4582 lbs.
              2021 BMW X5

              Ranked #3

              7209 lbs.974 lbs.4828 lbs.
              5500 lbs.-3638 lbs.
              5291 lbs.1540 lbs.4015 lbs.

              Top Alfa Romeo Cars

              2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia

              Horsepower : 280 hp @ 5200 rpm

              MPG Combined : 27 mpg

              0-60 : 5.5 sec

              #1

              2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

              Horsepower : 280 hp @ 5200 rpm

              MPG Combined : 25 mpg

              0-60 : 7.6 sec

              #2