Alfa Romeo Giulia review

When perusing the options for your next company car, it may well involve a list that includes a number of German executive saloons. If you’re bored with that oh-so-familiar line-up, though, the Alfa Romeo Giulia was tailor-made for you.

History has illustrated that few car-making nations can offer a finer-looking four-wheeled breath of fresh air than the Italians, and this is one that can confidently take on the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C Class. Unlike some of its predecessors, the Alfa Romeo Giulia shouldn’t be dismissed as an oddball or irrational choice among executive cars, even if it’s far from an obvious one; it certainly has the substance to back up its style.

Unlike its front-wheel drive predecessors, the Giulia is available with rear or four-wheel drive. The switch from front to rear-wheel drive allows the car to sit more comfortably next to its driver-focussed German counterparts, while the use of lightweight aluminium in the car’s structure and bodywork should be good news for fuel efficiency and cornering poise. Remember, too, that as well as BMW and Mercedes, the Giulia also faces competition from the Audi A4 – a former What Car? Car of the Year – and the Jaguar XE.

Since arriving in 2015 the Giulia has had some tweaks here and there to keep it fresh, most notably a facelift in late 2019 that greatly improved the interior quality. So now, aside from having a pretty face and a prettier interior, is the Giulia a more complete package than those illustrious rivals? Read on to find out how it drives, how spacious it is and which trim level we reckon gives you the best value for money. 

Read the next few pages for everything you need to know about the Alfa Romeo Giulia, including which engine, trim level and options make the most sense. And if you decide you want to buy a Giulia, or indeed any other car, head over to our New Car Buying pages to find out how much you could save.