The Stelvio is now available with rear-wheel drive, but it's only standard on the bottom two models. Every version now can be had with heated rear seats, a premium alarm system, and Imola Titanium metallic paint. Its two new option packages are the Nero Edizione bundle, which includes numerous black exterior accents such as 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-season rubber and backed by red, black, or yellow brake calipers. The Ti Sport Carbon package also adds a set of 20-inch rims along with copious carbon-fiber and dark-colored bits inside and out.
Pros Stunning Italian design, incredible ride and handling, enthralling powertrain.
Cons Nonluxury interior, questionable reliability, only one engine-transmission combination.
The 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, however, prioritizes the driving experience over such plebeian concerns. It strives to be the driver's pick among premium compact crossover SUVs — vehicles that generally aren't known for their dynamic attributes.Rear-wheel-drive base model added.Android Auto/Apple CarPlay is standard on all Stelvios.
Pros Sharp steering and precise handling Powerful and exciting engines Distinctive styling helps it stand out from the crowd
Cons Overly sensitive brake pedal Snug back seat and cargo volume Lower towing capacity than competitors
The 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio ranked #12 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Alfa Romeo Stelvio has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 16 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Engaging handling Powerful engine choices Plenty of standard features
Cons Unimpressive cabin quality Some confusing infotainment features Below-average cargo space High base price
The Audi RS Q3 Sportback is a fast SUV with a distinctive five-cylinder petrol engine and a lovely interior. The lower, lighter hatchback RS 3 will be even more fun to drive, mind you.A couple of things help the Audi RS Q3 Sportback stand out amongst performance SUVs – its sharp looks and that characterful five-cylinder engine. It just sounds better than the rest.
This latest addition to Audi Sport’s growing stable of RS models is also one part of a dual-pronged attack on the small performance SUV market. While the RS Q3 should appease those wanting a little extra headroom for rear passengers, the Sportback earns extra style points with its sloping rear end. The Sportback delivers the kind of assured handling we associate with the RS range, letting you make rapid point-to-point progress while remaining predictable at all times, if lacking in true driver engagement. The progressive steering rack doesn’t give much sense of what the front tyres are doing through corners, and there’s little playfulness to be found from the rear end when pushed. On the smoothest roads and the optional adaptive dampers set to their most comfortable, the Sportback is just about relaxed enough, but still jostles on rougher surfaces. Dynamic mode is a lot more brittle, picking up even the smallest of abrasions. Ride refinement is merely average for the class, though our test drive didn’t provide an opportunity to see what effect smaller 20in alloy wheels would have on comfort.
Audi's cheeky little SUV offers exactly what we expected from the tech-loving German automaker in a handsome and mostly practical package.
Pros Sharp styling, plentiful tech features, spunky driving demeanor.
Cons Tight rear quarters, noticeable turbo lag, a few cheap interior materials.
