| Year
(of specifications) |
2010 |
| Engine(s) |
1.8
litre, turbocharged 4 cylinder |
| Transmission |
6
speed manual FWD |
| Max
speed |
150
mph |
| 0-60 |
7.2
seconds |
| Horsepower |
235
hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| weight |
- |
Background
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Cloverleaf (in Italian "Quadrifoglio
Verde") is the top spec Giulietta model. The car has the
same great styling as the other models in the Giulietta range.
Except that for the Cloverleaf version Alfa Romeo has added
some special bits and trim elements including; optional 18 inch
wheels, discreet chrome trim, and distinctive green-on-white
Cloverleaf badges on the front wings. Overall it's one of the
more sophisticated, grown-up and stylish designs in the hot
hatch segment.
Drivetrain
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Cloverleaf is powered by a soulful,
turbocharged 1.8 litre 4-cylinder engine with direct injection.
It produces 232 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque
from just 1,900 rpm. Top speed is 150 mph, and the 0-60 mph
sprint is dealt with in just 7.2 seconds.
The Giulietta Cloverleaf features Alfa's DNA system which offers
different dynamic settings for the drivetrain and chassis. When
set in 'Normal' mode the throttle response is slower and the
car is a bit more relaxed overall - almost too relaxed. Set
in 'Dynamic' the car comes to life. Throttle response is sharpened,
the brakes firmed up and the steering made weightier. The electronic
EQ2 differential
also changes its settings, and kicks in to counter understeer
with more vigor.
The transmission
is handled by a slightly uninspiring 6-speed gearbox which sends
the power to the front wheels.
Chassis
Dynamically the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Cloverleaf isn't near the
top of its class. It can cover ground easily and comfortably,
but it's more of a tourer than a back road racer. The suspension
setup offers a smooth, quiet ride, but during cornering it also
offers a degree of sportiness. Unfortunately, and like so many
other contemporary Alfa's, the handling isn't anywhere near
as engaging as it should be.
Styling
Styling has always been one of Alfa Romeo's strong points. And
the Giulietta Cloverleaf certainly doesn't let the side down
in this department. The design, like the MiTo
GTA, is influenced by the Alfa
Romeo 8c Competizione. Alfa's designers have done a fantastic
job of translating the 8c supercar's shape into a 5-door hatchback.
The hidden rear door handles cleverly disguise the rear doors
and help contribute to the clean overall profile. Up front the
curvaceous front bumper is nicely matched to the triangular
shield-like grille. The jewel-like headlights are also a thing
of beauty. In the hot hatch market there's a long list of cars
which - while dynamically gifted - will also make you look like
an idiot thanks to the unnecessarily gaudy graphics and oversized
air intakes. This isn't one of them.
Overall
If you're looking for a supremely dynamic and focused hot
hatch then the Giulietta Cloverleaf probably isn't the car
for you. However if you're in the market for a family-friendly
car which looks classy and appealing, and at the same time offers
up some fun in the corners and a degree of grunt up front, this
is well worth taking a look at.
Similar and related vehicles:
 Alfa
Romeo MiTo GTA
Alfa Romeo 147 GTA (2003-2006)
Alfa Romeo 145 Cloverleaf (1995-2001)
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