If you’ve considered purchasing a unique luxury crossover like the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it’s not a bad idea. There are some things people dislike about the model. It has a small storage cargo area, outdated technology, and top trims that aren’t as luxurious as rivals. However, like every model, it also has a few advantages over the competition. Here are a few advantages of the performance-focused 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

Excellent steering and handling

The first advantage of owning and driving a 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is excellent steering and handling. As one might expect from a sport, performance-focused SUV, the luxury model feels smooth and easy to handle. According to Edmunds, the Stelvio provides “quick, accurate steering and precise handling,” something that even more costly luxury models lack. While some smaller models are focused primarily on tech, features, and amenities, the Stelvio ensures the driver enjoys driving.

Steering and handling are just a few things that make the Stelvio an excellent luxury performance SUV. While it’s often overlooked, overshadowed by rivals from more popular brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the Alfa Romeo truly stands on its own. Another publication, Car and Driver, said it has “satisfying driving dynamics,” a fancy way of saying great handling.

2 powerful engines that provide excellent performance

Next, an advantage of the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is the powerful engines. With either of the two units you can find under the hood, the Stelvio offers quick, punchy acceleration and a smooth ride. It goes without saying that the more costly version will do everything a little better. Base models start off with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. However, the performance-tuned Quadrifoglio model uses an exclusive twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6. The latter is capable of an output of up to 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque.

After testing the four-cylinder engine, Edmunds says, “you’ll be hard-pressed to feel the difference between the Stelvio and some vehicles with bigger engines.” Moreover, it’s clear that each of the Alfa Romeo engine offerings feels much more potent than the numbers say. Edmunds tests revealed a 0-60 mph time of just 5.7 seconds, which is barely behind models with larger (and more expensive) engines. C/D agrees with these sentiments, stating, “we were particularly fond of its responsive throttle and smooth power delivery.”

A unique design not found elsewhere

Finally, the last advantage of the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is its unique design. Unfortunately, the Stelvio’s appearance won’t be for everyone, but that’s OK. The automaker’s performance-focused model is built to stand out from the crowd, especially its luxury crossover rivals. While class-leading competitors share similar exterior design cues, the Stelvio looks nothing like any other model.

The Stelvio wears a unique, triangular grille in the front, surrounded by headlights that reach toward the middle of the front end. Next, the side-angle view is rounded like a hatchback but stops at the liftgate’s top, forming a unique rear-end design. In the back, the rear hatch sticks out a bit, appearing bulky from the side with a taillight design most haven’t seen before. Lastly, we can’t fail to mention the wheel designs, which spiral and turn in ways other luxury SUVs can’t imagine.

2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio advantages

In conclusion, the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is an excellent luxury crossover for those looking to drive. Handling, steering, and acceleration are a pleasure to control from inside the Italian performance vehicle. Overall, its main advantages are steering and handling, two powerful engines, and a unique exterior design. SUV buyers who want a smooth drive that stands out on the road would do well with the Stelvio.