The Alfa Romeo Stelvio was the Italian firm’s first SUV when it launched in 2017. But though it took Alfa some time to join this important market segment, the result is one of the most interesting mid-size premium models available. So while it doesn’t make the Parkers list of the best SUVs on sale, it’s still worth considering – especially if you value an engaging driving experience and a stylish appearance.

Sitting above the smaller (and newer) Alfa Romeo Tonale, which aims to tempt buyers with hybrid powertrains, the entirely conventional combustion engines of the Stelvio do make it seem a little old fashioned. But the introduction of a facelifted model in 2023 has brought a bit of a tech injection.

The revised exterior now sports Matrix LED headlights and a Tonale-style grille; the interior features a completely revised digital instrument cluster. Meanwhile Alfa Connected Services enables some remote access via your smartphone as well as over the air updates to keep the Stelvio’s electronics refreshed. As with the Tonale, service records can be authenticated by NFT block chain technology.

Sounds like a lot of fiddling, but the fundamental appeal of the Stelvio’s outstandingly nimble driving character remains undiminished – the same platform underpins the equally engaging Alfa Romeo Giulia saloon. All Stelvios use Alfa’s rear-biased Q4 four-wheel drive system, giving them all-weather traction capability but also making them feel instantly sporty, regardless of whether you choose the 280hp petrol model or the 210hp diesel.

Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission. A 510hp high-performance variant is available, too, but’s covered separately in our Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio review.

The conventional Stelvio model line-up since the 2023 facelift is straightforward: entry-level Sprint, more sporting Veloce and top-of-the-range Competizione. The latter is lavishly equipped, including leather and alcantara seats, Alfa’s Synaptic Dynamic Control (SDC) suspension set-up and Harman Kardon Audio.

As a decidedly fun-to-drive choice, the Stelvio places an emphasis on handling over comfort. To this end, the obvious rival is the Porsche Macan (though that is quite a bit less practical). The Jaguar F-Pace is another fine-handling SUV in this category. And the BMW X3 is always worth a look if you’re a keen driver.

Those considering the Stelvio for reasons of style should also examine the Range Rover Velar. For more of a general all-rounder, try the Audi Q5. The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a little staid by comparison to most of these, and seems unlikely to appeal to anyone seriously contemplating the Stelvio.

Over the next few pages, we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and rating them in our verdict. Along the way, we’ll consider the car’s driving experience, the quality and comfort of its interior, the level of practicality available and how much it’ll cost you to keep it on the road.