The model expected to lift Alfa Romeo’s stakes here has made a quiet entrance.

THREE four-cylinder editions of Alfa Romeo’s first sports utility become locally available next week, but no word yet on when the V6 Quadrifoglio flagship joins the pack.

The Stelvio presents for now in a single $84,990 2.2-litre turbodiesel format, packing 154kW/470Nm, plus two petrols, an $82,990 entry model with 148kW/330Nm and a Ti, with 206kW/400Nm and costing $99,990, that’ll stand in as the flagship until the 2.9-litre 375kW/600Nm six-cylinder comes. All have an eight-speed automatic gearbox and full time four-wheel drive.

The prices include a free service plan for three years/45,000 km for the petrol versions and three years/60,000km for the Turbo Diesel.

David Smitherman, chief executive officer for distributor Fiat Chrysler New Zealand, a subsidiary of the Ateco Group, is confident the model will have a good run.

“The Stelvio seamlessly blends everything the Alfa Romeo brand stands for; style, passion and exhilaration and adds the versatility of a state-of-the-art SUV.”

He suggested the Italian model would be uniquely suitable for New Zealand, in any of the usual environments.

“The premium mid-size SUV segment in New Zealand is forecast to grow and the introduction of the Stelvio now enables Alfa Romeo further expansion of the brand,” says Smitherman.

“Stelvio opens the door to customers who may not have considered an Alfa Romeo in the past due to the demands of a family or business life – the Stelvio meets these demands while still providing the uniquely Alfa Romeo dynamic driving experience.” 

Aimed firmly at disrupting the premium end of the mid-size SUV segment, the Stelvio delivers a inimitable and distinct proposition when compared to its European and Japanese rivals.

“The Stelvio provides a genuine, exciting and unique alternative in this area of the market and the models we have selected for New Zealand provides the perfect choice for local buyers,” Smitherman suggested in provided comment.