Alfa Romeo Giulia review - engine and gearbox

Though the Giulia was launched with a range of five engine choices, Alfa Romeo has since simplified the range down to a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder in two states of tune, and the range-topping 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 in the Quadrifoglio.

For private buyers and those less concerned with CO2 numbers, the entry 2.0-litre petrol Giulia produces 197bhp, putting power through the rear wheels. The new all-alloy engine features MultiAir technology – hydraulically actuated variable valve timing – along with direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger.

Peak torque of 243lb ft is available from just 1750rpm and is deployed through an eight-speed torque-converter transmission, Alfa UK having opted for an all-auto range. The 8-speed ZF unit on offer though is a good one, offering fast concise shifts that are immeasurably improved when summoned on the optional column mounted paddles. 

For those wanting a bit more punch, Alfa offers a more powerful 276bhp version of the same 2.0-litre engine in the Veloce and Estrema models – torque comes in at a healthy 295lb ft. 

Though diesel models were once in the UK lineup, these were ditched in favour of petrol, leaving a gap in the market for the Germans...