Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce brings new engines to Paris Motor Show
The Giulia Veloce debuts with a 280hp petrol and a 210hp diesel, both paired to Alfa’s Q4 all-wheel-drive and eight-speed automatic, targeting buyers after performance without the full Quadrifoglio specification.
Alfa Romeo has unveiled the Giulia Veloce at the Paris Motor Show, marking the return of the Veloce badge to its midsize saloon lineup. The Veloce models are designed to appeal to drivers seeking enhanced performance and style, but who do not require the full track-oriented specification of the flagship Quadrifoglio. By reviving the Veloce name, Alfa Romeo draws on its heritage, referencing the classic Giulietta Veloce from sixty years ago.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce: Paris Motor Show Introduction
Engine Options and Performance
The Giulia Veloce is offered with a choice of two performance-focused engines. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 280hp at 5,250rpm and generates 400Nm of torque from 2,250rpm. For those who prefer diesel, the 2.2-litre turbodiesel delivers 210hp at 3,500rpm and 470Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. This diesel unit is notable for being Alfa Romeo’s first all-aluminium diesel engine, a technical milestone for the brand. Both engines are paired with the Q4 all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic gearbox, ensuring power is delivered efficiently and traction is optimised in varying conditions. The Q4 system can transfer up to 60% of torque to the front axle when necessary, while aiming to maintain the dynamic, rear-drive handling that Alfa Romeo is known for.
Design and Equipment
The Giulia Veloce stands out visually thanks to exclusive paint options: Blue Misano for the petrol model and Silverstone Grey for the diesel. Subtle exterior upgrades over the standard Giulia include unique bumpers and trim details, giving the Veloce a sportier presence without being as aggressive as the Quadrifoglio. Inside, the Veloce features sports seats and specific interior finishes designed to emphasise its performance credentials. These enhancements aim to create a distinct atmosphere that sets the Veloce apart from other Giulia variants, blending comfort with a driver-focused environment.
Advanced Efficiency Joins the Giulia Range
In addition to the Veloce, Alfa Romeo is expanding the Giulia line-up with the introduction of an Advanced Efficiency version. This new variant is available on both the Giulia and Giulia Super trim levels and is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing 180hp, paired with the same eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Advanced Efficiency model is targeted at buyers prioritising low running costs and environmental impact, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.2 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. This model is set to go on sale in early 2017, offering an alternative for those seeking maximum economy from their Giulia.
Positioning Within the Giulia Range
The Giulia Veloce sits below the high-performance Quadrifoglio in the Giulia line-up, providing a more accessible option for customers who desire sporty styling and dynamic driving characteristics. The Veloce models bridge the gap between the standard Giulia and the flagship Quadrifoglio, offering a blend of everyday usability and enhanced performance. This approach allows Alfa Romeo to cater to a broader range of buyers, from those focused on efficiency to those seeking a more engaging drive.
Technical Firsts and Heritage
The introduction of the all-aluminium 2.2-litre diesel engine marks a significant technical achievement for Alfa Romeo, as it is the brand’s first use of this construction for a diesel unit. This development is in keeping with Alfa Romeo’s tradition of innovation and performance engineering. By reviving the Veloce name and introducing both performance and efficiency-focused models, Alfa Romeo is reinforcing its commitment to offering a diverse and competitive range in the midsize saloon segment.
| Petrol Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged, 280hp, 400Nm at 2,250rpm |
|---|---|
| Diesel Engine (Veloce) | 2.2-litre turbodiesel, 210hp, 470Nm at 1,750rpm |
| Diesel Engine (Advanced Efficiency) | 2.2-litre, 180hp, 4.2l/100km, 99g/km CO2 |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Q4 all-wheel drive (Veloce) |
| Exclusive Paints | Blue Misano (petrol), Silverstone Grey (diesel) |
| Availability | Veloce: 2016 Paris Motor Show; Advanced Efficiency: Early 2017 |
