They say the soul of a car lives in how it makes you feel. The 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio returns not just as a refresh but as a reinvigoration — merging Italian flair with modern tech and everyday utility. This is more than a mere SUV; it’s a statement.
Let’s journey through every angle, from specs to verdict, so you know whether this is the Stelvio for you.
What’s New & Why It Matters
In 2025, Alfa Romeo streamlined the Stelvio lineup, shedding complexity for focused appeal. According to MotorTrend, the new model is offered in a core trim with optional luxury or performance packages. (MotorTrend)
The special-edition Tributo Italiano (or Special Edition) brings appearance upgrades like 21-inch wheels, red calipers, body kits, and a gloss-black finish—all for around a $55,995 price tag. (MotorTrend)
The 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio special edition stands out visually, but under the skin, much remains tuned for balance: sportiness without excessive edge. It’s a move to deliver emotion without crossing into impracticality.
2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Specs — What You Need to Know
Quick take: It’s a turbocharged, AWD midsize SUV that leans toward a driver-centric feel rather than pure utility.
| Category | Specification |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp @ 5,200 rpm (Alfa Romeo of Plano) |
| Torque | 306 lb-ft (Alfa Romeo of Plano) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (MotorTrend) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (standard) (U.S. News Cars) |
| Fuel Economy (est.) | 22 city / 28 highway / 24 combined mpg (U.S. News Cars) |
| Cargo Volume | 18.5 cu ft (rear seats up) / 56.5 cu ft (folded) (U.S. News Cars) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 184.6 in × 74.9 in × 66.0 in (MotorTrend) |
| Ground Clearance | ~8.1 in (MotorTrend) |
| MSRP (base) | $48,995 (U.S. News Cars) |
| Special/Top Trim MSRP | $55,995 (Special Edition) (U.S. News Cars) |
This set of 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio specs places it solidly in the compact-luxury SUV realm, though with a performance-leaning tilt. Its power numbers and drivetrain feel more like a sporty sedan with extra height than a utility-first SUV.
Trim Structure & Editions — What Are Your Options?
Alfa Romeo consolidated trim differentiation into packages rather than distinct models. The key ones:
- Base / Standard AWD — gives you the essentials in performance, safety, and design.
- Intensa — an upgraded luxury & tech package. (U.S. News Cars)
- Special Edition / Tributo Italiano — more aggressive styling cues, black accents, 21-inch wheels. (MotorTrend)
Interestingly, the high-performance 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio variant has been discontinued for this model year. U.S. News notes that the Stelvio traded power for simplicity in this redesign. (U.S. News Cars)
If you were eyeing the Quadrifoglio, you’ll need to wait for a future revival — or explore a used exemplar.
Driving Dynamics & Real-World Impressions
I once drove a previous-gen Stelvio through coastal curves in Northern California, and I still remember the intimate feedback from the steering wheel. That’s the kind of spirit Alfa tries to preserve here.
In Autoblog’s week behind the wheel of the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce, the reviewer praised its emotional delivery: responsive throttle, crisp handling, and the kind of small thrills you expect when turning a corner on a tight road. (Autoblog) Torque Report echoed this, calling the 2025 model “one of the most engaging SUVs in its class.” (The Torque Report)
However — and this matters — it’s not perfect. U.S. News called out its “tight rear legroom” and “small cargo area.” (U.S. News Cars) The cabin quality also draws mixed reactions, particularly when compared to German rivals. The tactile experience is strong up front, but the rear seat and finish materials may not wow at first glance.
On rough roads or city speed bumps, the ride can feel a bit firm. Enthusiasts may love that firmness; daily commuters might find it a touch firm for repeated potholes.
2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs. Competitors
Why choose the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio? Its emotional appeal is its point of difference. Compared to a BMW X3 or Mercedes GLC:
- It leans more driver-centric than those.
- Cargo and rear-seat space are somewhat more compromised. (U.S. News Cars)
- Style and visual impact are stronger (for many buyers).
- Feature lists are competitive but not wildly ahead.
If you prioritize character over maximum practicality, the Stelvio is alluring. If your priority is space, comfort, or minimal compromises, some rivals might edge ahead.
| Model | Base Horsepower | Cargo (Behind Rear Seat) | Key Trait |
| 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio | 280 hp | 18.5 cu ft | Driving Emotion |
| 2025 BMW X3 | 248 hp (est.) | 28.7 cu ft | Tech & Balance |
| 2025 Audi Q5 | 261 hp (Sportback) | 24.7 cu ft | Refined Luxury |
Pro Tips / Action Steps Before You Buy
- Test All Trims Back-to-Back: Feel the difference in seat bolstering, suspension settings, and ambiance between the base and Special Edition.
- Check Real-World MPG: Suburban driving may deviate from EPA estimates of 22/28 mpg. Check live owner forums for real-world data.
- Research Owner Forums: Look for long-term reliability reports and common quirks mentioned by current Stelvio owners.
- Prioritize Warranty & Service Network: Alfa Romeo’s U.S. dealer footprint is smaller than mainstream brands. Ensure service accessibility in your area.
- Negotiate Packages: Because trim differentiation is package-based, you may unlock better deals on optional add-ons rather than the base MSRP.
- Inspect Rear-Seat Comfort: Given feedback about tight legroom, sit in the back yourself with someone else in the driver’s seat.
Common Questions (FAQ)
The 280-hp base model hits 60 mph in about 5.4 to 5.5 seconds, offering snappy acceleration thanks to its standard AWD and 8-speed transmission.6
Yes, all 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio models come standard with the Q4 all-wheel-drive system, ensuring balanced performance and all-weather grip.
You get 18.5 cu ft with all seats upright and 56.5 cu ft with them folded down, which is less than some key rivals in its class.
The 2025 Stelvio starts at an MSRP of $48,995.7 The stylish Special Edition (Tributo Italiano) package brings the price to around $55,995.
No, Alfa Romeo has discontinued the high-performance 505-hp Stelvio Quadrifoglio variant for the 2025 model year. This model is not currently available.
Strengths & Drawbacks — A Balanced View
Strengths
- Distinctive, emotive styling and presence
- Engaging driving dynamics and solid engine output
- Novel trim strategy with expressive options
- Emotional cachet unmatched by many rivals
Drawbacks
- Rear-seat space is tight, cargo area is smaller than average
- Interior finish in the rear may not impress all buyers
- Ride can feel firm for everyday city driving
- Smaller dealer network and service access
- Limited trims and no high-output variant for 2025
The Verdict: Is the 2025 Stelvio for You?
The 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is not a vehicle you choose with a spreadsheet. You choose it with your heart. It’s for the driver who glances back at their car in the parking lot, who is willing to trade a few cubic feet of cargo space for a few more thrills on a winding road.
If you prioritize maximum practicality and rear-seat comfort, German rivals may serve you better. But if you believe an SUV should stir your soul, the Stelvio remains one of the most passionate, engaging, and stylish choices on the market.
Jake Harlan is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 10 years of experience. From family SUVs to high-performance sports cars, he delivers accurate, unbiased reviews and practical insights trusted by enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
