Named after a famous winding pass in the Italian Alps, the Stelvio is perfect for carving up canyons. A turbo 2.0-liter four makes 280 hp and pairs with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. For more power, the Quadrifoglio flaunts a 505-hp 2.9-liter turbo V-6; an adaptive suspension is standard. Alfa claims a zero-to-60 time of 3.9 seconds. Inside, the Stelvio offers an optional 900-watt Harman/Kardon audio system, but we’re pretty sure that sweet engine is all you’ll want to hear. Assembled at Alfa’s Cassino plant in Frosinone, Italy, the Stelvio is built on the same platform as the Giulia and will be offered in three trim levels: Stelvio, Stelvio Ti, and the high-performance Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which has enough distinct features and tuning to be considered a separate model. While the Stelvio and Stelvio Ti both rely on a 280-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four for motivation, the high-performance Quadrifoglio utilizes the 505-hp 2.9-liter turbocharged V-6 from the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. Aluminum is used extensively in the construction of every Stelvio, including the front and rear subframes, the suspension components (control arms in front, multilink in the rear), the doors, and the fenders; the rear crossmember is partly made of composite plastics to pare more weight.
While the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers an enjoyable experience at all trim levels, the Ti outfitted with the Sport package represents the best of what this SUV has to offer. The Ti provides a more premium experience, adding more attractive interior materials and heating for the front seats and steering wheel. The Sport package completes the experience with supportive seats, great-looking 20-inch wheels, satisfying shift paddles, and your choice of red, black or yellow brake calipers.
PROS Among the more fun-to-drive compact luxury crossovers available Powerful and exciting engine Distinctive styling and wheels help it stand out in the crown
CONS Odd brake pedal feel makes it hard to modulate easily Low tow capacity versus segment Somewhat snug back seat
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio ranked #7 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Alfa Romeo Stelvio has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 15 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Superb handling Powerful engine
Cons High base price Some lower-quality materials Below-average cargo space
The 2019 Porsche Macan comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.More powerful turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine for S models.New interior design incorporating a 10.9-inch touchscreen.Redesigned front and rear fascias, including headlights and taillights.More natural voice recognition software.
Pros Quick acceleration regardless of engine choice Most athletic and engaging SUV in the class Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride Easy to customize thanks to a long list of individual options
Cons Less rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity than many competitors Options and packages can add up quickly
The Macan is updated for 2019 and features refreshed exterior styling that includes updated front and rear bumpers, new taillamps that span the width of the liftgate, and new wheel designs. The base 2019 Porsche Macan receives a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and the high-performance S model comes with a 348-hp turbo V-6; the GTS and Turbo models have yet to be revealed for 2019, but will almost certainly pack more punch than the S when they eventually return. The suspension is retuned this year as well, although the Macan already was the one of the best handling crossovers of 2018. The Macan also sees a few interior changes, the most notable one being the new, larger 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and standard 4G LTE onboard Wi-Fi feature.
Pros As quick as some Boxsters, curvy exterior, exceptional poise on the road.
Cons Low-rent interior, cramped rear seat, small cargo hold.
The 2019 Porsche Macan ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Porsche Macan has a score of 9.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Dynamic handling Premium cabin Intuitive infotainment system Class-leading predicted reliability rating
Cons Small cargo hold Tight rear seats
The first big revamp of Porsche's Macan range has arrived. Is it 'almost new-generation' as its maker claims or closer to the facelift it appears to be? Let's find out in the newish V6-powered S version.
Pros Smarter Cayenne-like look Excellent high-def’ infotainment Superb all-round drivability Excellent driver-centric dynamics
Cons The new single-turbo V6 is uninspiring in character Old Porsche cabin design Average three-year warranty: AEB costs extra
