When it comes to exhilarating performance, a brand that usually enjoys a view from the top is Alfa Romeo. This automaker infuses every model with a curve-hugging, pavement chopping, and fun-to-drive experience. However, the luxury Italian automaker also has some frequent setbacks that seem to transcend every model bearing the badge.
There are inconsistencies with the designs and reliability of more than one Alfa Romeo. Additionally, Consumer Reports evaluations scores prove these unfavorable trends. While certain inconsistencies plague the brand, it does help consumer expectations. As you explore the Consumer Reports ratings for the Alfa Romeo Giulia, the Stelvio, and the upcoming 2023 Tonale, you’ll likely come to one over-arching conclusion. Alfa Romeo cars tend to have the same strengths and weaknesses across the board.
How the 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia ranks on Consumer Reports
Alfa Romeo logo | Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Consumer Reports weighs in with survey scores and ratings for the 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia. This compact luxury sports sedan seeks to challenge the likes of the BMW 3 Series. As the consumer group points out, there’s plenty to love about this car, including its “style, character, and agile handling.”
While the Alfa Romeo Giulia is super-fun to drive, earning 70 out of 100 on the road test, it earns terrible scores for predicted reliability, with 1 out of a possible 5. Predicted owner satisfaction is a perfect 5 out of 5, but the overall rating for this sedan is 50 out of 100. It will ooze performance and sportscar character, but based on past reliability concerns for the Giulia and comprehensive brand history, Consumer Reports isn’t holding its breath on future reliability improvements.
Consumer Reports scores for the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
In a strikingly similar evaluation, the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio earns almost identical scores across the roster. Its overall Consumer Reports rating is 50 out of 100, and its owner satisfaction predictions score 3 out of 5. However, just as its compact sedan cousin, this compact luxury SUV tanks with a 1 out of 5 in predicted reliability.
The CR team cheers for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s “thrilling acceleration” and its quick-shifting transmission. There is plenty of gusto with its 280-hp turbocharged engine, making the Stelvio one of the best handling SUVs you can buy. Still, there are annoyances, including a grabby brake pedal, not-so-smooth power delivery, and poor visibility to the side and rear.
Predictions for the 2023 Tonale
The Italian automaker plans to introduce its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and gas-powered version of a small SUV. The 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale is coming, intending to slot below the Stelvio, and compete with luxury-infused rivals like the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1 and X2 next year. However, because it’s not yet available, Consumer Reports hasn’t had a chance to road test and evaluate it.
Based on first looks and early impressions, consumers can expect a signature grille and exterior style. Additionally, the overall aesthetics will look and feel like other Alfa Romeo models in the family. It’s expected to be an attractive addition to the lineup, with magnificent handling and performance like its stablemates. However, the best prediction of future scores lies in the trends of past scores. So, consumers might also prepare for certain setbacks and common annoyances that the automaker’s other models currently have.
Consumers might want to wait and see how the 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale shakes out in the ratings with Consumer Reports. Still, based on previous models and scores, in performance and predicted reliability, the Tonale will more than likely be a top-notch performer with marginal-at-best reliability ratings, like others that bear the same badge.
Keyword: All Alfa Romeo Cars Have the Same Strengths and Weaknesses, According to Consumer Reports Data