Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio review - design
Not as divisive as some other SUVs, the Stelvio QV’s aggressive aesthetic does at least make it look somewhat exotic
The Stelvio Quadrifoglio sure is a divisive design, with many loving its pumped-up shape and aggressive detailing. If there is one inarguable fact, it is that the Stelvio certainly looks like little else on the road, with its big triangular grille and those classic telephone dial wheels.
To others though, the Stelvio’s odd proportions and lack of a rear three-quarter window make it look like a very large hatchback, especially when seen in context of other road cars. The big headlights and lack of any rugged styling elements only accentuates this odd aesthetic.
What it does have is presence, sitting purposefully on its slightly oversized wheels and tyres, and thanks to its aggressive intakes and offset exhaust pipes. Of the performance SUV type, it’s more distinctive than the Porsche Macan, more dynamic than any performance Range Rover, if not quite as purposeful as the Jaguar F-Pace SVR.
And yet, in one of its brighter colours, and with those new 21-inch wheels, the Stelvio has a similar feel to an Alpine A110 that’s been through the Atelier programme, or even a PTS Porsche – something that’s designed specifically for you, bespoke and special. This isn’t a car to just ditch in three years’ time after the PCP has ended, but will act as a very special point and time in automotive development.
