Cars & Concepts
Alfa Romeo Junior (2024): Erste Sitzprobe im kompakten Design-Stück
First Seating Experience in the Alfa Romeo Junior (2024)
Impressions from the brand's newest compact car
This vehicle has generated a significant buzz in the media. It's not just the rarity of a compact Alfa Romeo that's intriguing. Rather, it's the widespread public discussion about its naming that has given the now-renamed Junior, formerly known as Milano, a substantial amount of free publicity. This is partly why we were eager to see how the Junior would fare during our initial in-person encounter.
The Bernegger Car Dealership in Rosenheim had a successful day with the unveiling of the new Alfa Romeo, managing to sell three of the Junior model virtually "sight unseen". Despite the car's starting price tag of at least 29,500 euros, which is not exactly cheap, it seems to offer value for money. This is something it shares with its technological counterpart, the Fiat 600.
Photo Gallery: Alfa Romeo Junior (2024) Seating Test
Rather than focusing on the functionality, the conversation is about the design. It's a matter of personal preference whether one appreciates the appearance or not. However, it's worth acknowledging that the designers at Alfa Romeo have managed to create something quite unique, despite using the Jeep Avenger/Opel Mokka and similar models as a foundation.
The front grille featuring the built-in Alfa badge is attractive, and the standard model with the "Leggenda" grille displays the "Alfa Romeo" name in a classic script. Of course, a red option is essential, dubbed "Rosso Brera," which comes with an extra charge of 1,200 euros. It's just unfortunate that the "Verde Montreal" color, familiar on other Alfa models, isn't available.
Let's focus on the bare essentials. We've covered this in detail before, so we'll just recap the key measurements: it's 4.17 meters long, 1.78 meters wide, and stands at a height of 1.50 meters. The wheelbase measures 2.56 meters, thanks to the Stellantis CMP platform. Noteworthy features include the smooth sides with a rear door handle next to the window and a beltline that rises towards the back.
Alfa Romeo Junior (2024) Seating Test
What becomes immediately apparent is that the trunk capacity of 400 liters is quite acceptable, although the distinctly sloped rear window does impose some limitations. As we continue to explore, we find that legroom in the rear becomes quite tight for individuals taller than 1.80 meters. In contrast, the driver's seat provides a much more comfortable experience with numerous physical buttons and an ergonomic design enhanced by a 10.25-inch touchscreen angled towards the driver. However, it would be beneficial if the screen were positioned a bit higher. There's a visible presence of hard plastic within the interior, but depending on the model, Alfa attempts to elevate the interior's feel with Alcantara accents.
On the engine side, the Junior model is available as a mild-hybrid gasoline engine with 136 horsepower and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. In Germany, pricing starts at 29,500 euros for a relatively well-equipped base model. The purely electric version, with 156 horsepower, is priced higher, beginning at 39,500 euros.
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The current flagship model is the Elettrica Veloce, which boasts 280 horsepower and 345 Newton-meters of torque. However, this electric newcomer tips the scales at nearly 300 kilograms heavier. The impact of this weight and whether the gasoline version can impress will be determined in a driving review.
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