New Volvo S60 vs BMW 3 Series vs Alfa Romeo Giulia
Volvo is following its recent run of success with the new S60 saloon. But standing in its way are the Alfa Romeo Giulia and class-leading BMW 3 Series...
Infotainment systems
Alfa Romeo Giulia
The Giulia’s infotainment system is controlled using a dial and some shortcut buttons between the front seats. This sort of interface is much easier (not to mention safer) to use than a touchscreen when you’re driving. Sadly, the display isn’t particularly high in definition and the operating system could also be more logical. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring comes as standard.
BMW 3 Series
The best system by a country mile. You can use it as a touchscreen, or by twisting and pressing a dial between the front seats (in much the same way as you do in the Giulia). Measuring just over 10.0in, the display is also the biggest and brightest here, and the operating system is the most user-friendly. The only disappointment is that Android Auto isn’t available; Apple CarPlay is, but you have to pay to use it after the first 12 months.
Volvo S60
The S60’s system is a pure touchscreen, so it’s the most distracting to use while you’re driving. The fact that some of the icons are quite small doesn’t help. Volvo’s operating system isn’t the most intuitive, either, although you do get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring as standard. If you’re a big music fan, you’ll also appreciate the sound system, which is the best here.
