(Motorsport-Total.com/Motor1) – This car has caused a lot of buzz in the media. Not only because a small Alfa Romeo is always unusual. Rather, it was the big public debate about its name that brought the Milano, now renamed Junior, a lot of free PR. That’s another reason why we were excited to see how the Junior would perform when it first came into contact with the car in real life.
© Motor1.com Germany
The Bernegger car dealership in Rosenheim, where the new Alfa Romeo was shown, was able to sell three Juniors virtually “blind” on the same day. And that was despite the fact that the car is no bargain at at least 29,500 euros. But it is not more expensive either. That is what its technology buddy Fiat is doing 600.
It’s about the design. Of course, you can like or dislike the look. But you have to give credit to the stylists at Alfa Romeo for creating something very unique based on the Jeep Avenger/Opel Mokka and co.
The radiator grille with the integrated Alfa emblem is pleasing, the basic version with the “Leggenda” grille has the lettering “Alfa Romeo” in nostalgic cursive. Of course, a red is a must, it is called “Rosso Brera” and costs 1,200 euros extra. It’s just a shame that the “Verde Montreal” known from the other Alfas isn’t available.
Let’s turn to the bare facts. We have already reported in detail here, so here are just the most important data: length 4.17 meters, width 1.78 meters and a height of 1.50 meters. Wheelbase: 2.56 meters due to the CMP platform from Stellantis. The clean flanks with rear door handle next to the window and the belt line rising towards the rear are striking.
What you quickly notice: The trunk volume of 400 liters is OK, but the slanted rear window is a bit restrictive. We feel our way forward, and the footwell in the back is quite tight for people over 1.80 meters. The situation in the driver’s seat is much more comfortable: lots of real buttons and good ergonomics thanks to the 10.25-inch touchscreen facing the driver. It could be mounted a bit higher, though. Hard plastic is definitely visible, but depending on the version, Alfa tries to spice up the ambience with Alcantara.
Photo gallery: Alfa Romeo Junior (2024) in the first test drive
In terms of engines, the Junior is available as a mild hybrid petrol engine with 136 hp and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Price in Germany: from 29,500 euros with already quite good standard equipment. The pure electric model with 156 hp is more expensive, with prices starting at 39,500 euros.
The current top model is the Electric Veloce. There are 280 hp and 345 Newton meters of torque. However, the electric junior weighs almost 300 kilograms more. A driving report will have to show what effect this has and whether the petrol engine can convince.
More from Alfa Romeo:
Source: German