Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce Review

The four-door saloon has such je ne sais quoi that it’s impossible to ignore.

Have you ever driven a car that’s just right? I mean, bang on. You know, the kind of motor where the seats support you perfectly; the sort that handles and performs as you’d hope – and the type that you can’t stop looking at?

Well, this is precisely what the Giulia Veloce is like. I didn’t want to give it back after my week’s test – and this is rare for me. I’m into cars, obviously – but not usually enough to miss them. I’m even vaguely relieved when some go back – especially the ones that are stupidly expensive and ridiculously blingy.

Honestly, the Veloce is the kind of car I’d buy. Why? Well, it just works for me. Maybe it’s because of my age, my “family man” role – and the fact I want performance and looks without too much “shoutiness”. You see, you don’t need to prove yourself in this Alfa. It appears potent, with curves and muscles in all the right places – but it stops short of being “over the top”.

Charm and character

The four-door saloon is large enough to seat five – and, with a 0-62mph time of 5.7 seconds, it’s quick enough to give you a few thrills. But importantly, it’s “real world” enough to be driven sensibly – especially when you have your kids with you. The Veloce isn’t too thirsty for what it is, either, with over 32mpg easily obtainable.

The direct steering and smooth-shifting eight-speed auto ‘box make any journey a pleasure. But it’s the lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive that form the sweet cherry on the Alfa shaped cake. Furthermore, the leather and Alcantara seats cocoon you – and keep you in position when navigating twisty tarmac. They’re just as accommodating on the straights, leaving you feeling refreshed rather than fatigued after a long journey.

If I had a choice between a BMW 3-series and this, I’d choose the Giulia Veloce. That’s saying something, believe me. A 330i M Sport is almost as much fun, and Alfa Romeo isn’t known for its build quality, whereas the German mark is. But the Italian has such character, charm and je ne sais quoi that I’d go for it in a heartbeat.