2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs 2021 Range Rover Velar: The Italian SUV Takes All On

Italian designers, no matter what industry they might work in, have an uncanny ability to make all things beautiful. Alfa Romeo has consistently created some of the most memorable automotive works of art in its 110-year history. The Stelvio is another such work of art.

It's attractive and smart

We'll get to styling shortly so let's get started with value. This is an unusual concept for a luxury automaker but the fact is that the Alfa Romeo offers a considerable amount of performance and technology for the price.

Considering the Range Rover Velar's base price, a loaded Stelvio TI Sport becomes accessible. From a performance perspective, it crushes it, you'll see. From an equipment point-of-view, the TI Sport features, to name a few elements, 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, aluminium interior accents, a full suite of active safety features including adaptive cruise control, and more. These are all options on the Velar.

Italian performance

Clearly, the sexy Italian SUV has got more kit. Alfa Romeo's history is also steeped in motorsports so it comes as no surprise that the Stelvio's powertrain casts a shadow on the Range Rover Velar. It offers more power and a far more involving driving experience.

Both are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine but there are not equal. In the Stelvio, the mill produces no less than 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque. The Velar's engine somewhat lags behind with its 247 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. of torque. These numbers make the Stelvio considerably quicker, but this is only part of the drive story.

The Alfa Romeo was built in the la meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion) spirit which stands for an unparalleled connection between vehicle and driver. This is achieved through a chassis regulated to deliver control and confidence. This is no ordinary SUV. Its ultra-precise steering, sport-tuned suspension and high-performance Brembo front brakes ensure the most dynamic of driving experiences.

An SUV can be beautiful

And the Alfa Romeo Stelvio is beautiful. Every time it'll be parked, you'll catch yourself glancing over your shoulder to peek at the SUV. The combination of its powerful proportions, fluid and seductive curves interspersed with spots of voluntary simplicity deliver a style unlike any other SUV.

This unique SUV is more exclusive than any Range Rover. You'll have noticed an Alfa Romeo Stelvio drive by but it's highly unlikely that you'll have spotted the last dozen Range Rovers. Clearly then, the Italians know how to make an attractive SUV that is also unbelievably good to drive.