Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

The case for the Giulia Quadrifoglio

The Giulia Quadrifoglio, launched in 2016, announced Alfa Romeo's return to serious performance cars. Its 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6, developed with Ferrari input, produces 503 hp and drives the rear wheels. Early cars offered a six-speed manual in some markets, though the vast majority use the excellent ZF eight-speed automatic. The result is a sports saloon that can genuinely trouble the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63 while feeling distinctly Italian.

The Giulia's appeal is its character. The engine is glorious, the chassis is beautifully balanced, and the steering is quick and communicative. It is a car that rewards an engaged driver. The cabin is well-equipped and the saloon body is genuinely practical. For a buyer who wants a fast saloon with soul, the Quadrifoglio is a compelling and slightly left-field choice.

The driving modes matter. In the more aggressive settings the throttle sharpens, the exhaust opens and the car feels alive. The limited-slip differential and rear-wheel drive mean the Giulia will move around on the limit in a way the all-wheel-drive rivals do not. It is a car that feels alive and slightly demanding, which is exactly what its admirers want. A 2021 facelift updated the infotainment and interior, so later cars are worth seeking out.

What it costs to run

The Quadrifoglio is a performance car and costs reflect that. An annual service at an Alfa Romeo specialist is typically £500 to £900, with larger services more. The ZF gearbox has a fluid-change schedule. Tyres are a significant cost, £1,000 to £1,400 for a set of the correct performance rubber, and the powerful engine and rear-wheel drive mean rear tyres wear quickly. Brakes are similarly expensive if the car is driven hard.

The twin-turbo V6 needs quality oil and regular changes, particularly on a car that is used hard. Fuel economy is poor when the performance is used, with low 20s mpg typical in mixed driving. Insurance and road tax are in line with the class.

Known weak points

Oil consumption is the most discussed engine concern. Some engines consume oil between services, and a car that has been run low can suffer damage. Check the service history for regular oil changes and ask about consumption. A pre-purchase inspection should include a compression or leak-down check if there is any doubt.

Build quality and reliability niggles are reported. Infotainment glitches, software faults and minor electrical issues appear in owner reports, though many have been improved by updates. The differentials and rear drivetrain should be checked on a hard-driven car. Suspension components and brakes wear quickly if the car is used on track. Early cars had some recalls and software campaigns, so check these have been completed.

What to check before buying

Service history is important, and a car maintained by an Alfa Romeo specialist with regular oil changes is preferable. Ask specifically about oil consumption and whether the level has been monitored between services. Check for a full main-dealer or specialist history.

On the test drive, check the engine pulls cleanly and listen for any unusual noises. Test the gearbox for smooth shifts and check the infotainment, cameras and driver aids all work. Look for any warning messages. Inspect the tyres for even wear and the brakes for condition. Check the interior trim and panel fit, which can reveal build quality. A pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist is recommended.

Check that recall and software campaigns have been completed against the VIN. On a manual car, check the clutch and gear change. On all cars, look underneath for damage and check the suspension mounting points.

Market and depreciation

The Giulia Quadrifoglio has depreciated from its launch price. Values were typically £35,000 to £55,000 at the time of writing, depending on age, mileage and specification. The earliest cars are now accessible, while later facelifted cars with updated infotainment command more. Values have been relatively soft, which makes the Giulia good value for the performance.

The depreciation makes the Giulia an attractive used buy, but factor in the running costs and the importance of a good example. A cheap car with oil-consumption issues or a patchy history can cost more to sort than a well-kept car. Buy on condition and history, and the Quadrifoglio offers a lot of performance for the money.

Who it suits

The Giulia Quadrifoglio suits the driver who wants a fast, characterful saloon and is prepared to maintain it properly. It is practical enough for daily use and thrilling on the right road. It does not suit someone who prioritises German build quality and resale values or who wants the cheapest possible performance car. If you value engine character and driving engagement, the Quadrifoglio rewards. It is the saloon for the driver who finds the German rivals a little too polished and predictable.

Alternatives

The BMW M3 is the benchmark, with better build quality and resale but a less distinctive character. The Mercedes-AMG C63 offers a thunderous V8 and strong residuals. The Audi RS4 is more practical and discreet. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio offers the same engine in an SUV body. The Giulia's character and value make it a compelling choice for the engaged driver.

How this review was compiled

This review is based on Alfa Romeo's published technical information, owner reports from AlfaOwner and specialist forums, UK specialist servicing guides and current Auto Trader listings. Indicative UK prices vary with location, specification and condition.