The Alfa Romeo Junior enters the electric segment. We took the wheel of the 280 hp Veloce version!
Like other manufacturers in the Stellantis group, Alfa Romeo is venturing into the electric segment with a small urban SUV. Based on the multi-energy e-CMP platform, the Junior adopts the 156 hp motorization, already well-known and used in the DS 3 E-Tense. However, with its top-of-the-line Veloce model, equipped with a 280 hp engine, Alfa Romeo takes it a step further. Unprecedented for this powertrain! Despite being overlooked by the Italian administration due to philosophical issues about a car’s identity, this Junior Veloce delivers all the sensations (with one exception) expected from a small Italian sports car.
Interesting Performance
The Junior Veloce is equipped with a 51 kWh CATL battery from a Jeep Avenger, among others, and an M4 type electric machine developed by eMotors, also found in the Peugeot e-3008. This unique tandem, where the engine can deliver a maximum of 286 hp (210 kW) on paper, allowed engineers to push the limits by rethinking the electronic management without changing the components. The urban SUV shows excellent performance with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h.
While the acceleration numbers are impressive, the driving experience may feel a bit diluted in this 1,590 kg SUV. However, the Italian SUV performs as well as a BMW iX1 xDrive30. Its sporty handling makes it a joy to drive.
A SUV that Drives Like a GTI!
In its Veloce version, the Alfa Romeo Junior is more than just a timid urban SUV. With a front limited-slip differential, this SUV handles sharp turns with ease, feeling more like a sporty GTI. Although the driving experience is exhilarating, some electronic assistance may intervene quickly. Despite some artificial feel in the steering, the SUV offers an engaging driving experience, especially in Dynamic mode.
Presentation and Finishing
The Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce offers a good driving experience, but the finish and presentation may feel lacking in some areas. With a firm suspension setup, the SUV may provide a bumpy ride on rough roads. However, it compensates with a tight turning radius of 10.5 meters.
Consumption Concerns
During the test drive, the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce showed high consumption levels, indicating a potential issue with range. The SUV is equipped with an 11 kW onboard charger in its Veloce version, ensuring quick recharging times.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce impresses with its dynamic performance but falls short in delivering the emotional connection expected from an Alfa Romeo. Priced from €38,500 for the base model with 156 hp, the Veloce variant starts at €46,900. While it offers a sporty driving experience, the price difference compared to other models may raise some eyebrows. Overall, the Junior Veloce is a compelling option for those seeking a fun urban SUV.