The launch of the new Alfa Romeo Junior marks the brand’s bold return to the compact car segment, offering both hybrid and electric options. The Junior is designed with a distinctive Italian flair, featuring a streamlined body and a focus on electrification. The vehicle is available in two variants: the hybrid Ibrida, priced from $45,900 plus on-road costs, and the fully electric Elettrica, starting at $57,900.
Design and Features
One of the striking aspects of the Junior is its minimal use of chrome, opting instead for a design that emphasizes its sporty lineage. The car showcases the iconic Alfa Romeo design elements, including a sculpted body with a scudetto grille and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. This small SUV is adorned with the classic leggenda scudetto and features bold 3+3 adaptive full LED matrix headlights. The profile has been meticulously crafted to enhance aerodynamics.
The interior of the Junior is described as “driver-centric,” boasting premium materials and a modern infotainment system. The cabin features a cannocchiale digital instrument cluster and ambient lighting. The optional Spiga seats offer massage functionality, adding a touch of luxury to the driving experience. With a luggage capacity of 415 litres, the Junior balances style with practicality.
Performance and Technology
Under the hood, the Junior Ibrida is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. This combination delivers a 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.9 seconds. The hybrid variant utilizes a 54kWh battery, providing a maximum range of 410 km according to the WLTP standard. The electric variant, Elettrica, features a 115 kW motor that ensures a dynamic driving experience, with advanced handling capabilities derived from the engineering team behind the Giulia GTA.
The Junior is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Level 2 autonomous driving, adaptive cruise control, and active lane management. The vehicle also includes Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic Emergency Braking, and a 360-degree parking sensor system. Six airbags are standard, enhancing occupant safety.
The new infotainment system features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supplemented by a 10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster. The system delivers information efficiently, although users may need time to familiarize themselves with the various control methods.
Overall, the Alfa Romeo Junior aims to blend style, technology, and performance in a compact SUV. While some interior surfaces reflect cost-cutting measures, the vehicle’s striking design and advanced features position it as a competitive option in its class.
With the Junior, Alfa Romeo showcases its commitment to innovation and style, appealing to both traditional enthusiasts and new buyers alike.
