In the realm of luxury vehicles, the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio resembles a remarkably handsome but aging celebrity. Fans can easily recognize the initial allure that made him captivating, yet there’s a sense that his prime days might be in the rearview mirror. This sentiment is further compounded by the fact that the Stelvio competes within one of the most fiercely contested segments of the luxury car industry. This arena is teeming with heavyweights like the BMW X3, Volvo XC60, and Genesis GV70. Confronted with these adversaries, many of which boast more recent iterations, the Stelvio leans heavily on its aesthetics and innate sophistication. Its exterior design is undeniably appealing, while the interior radiates a design flair that remains quintessentially Italian.

Although luxury crossovers don’t traditionally prioritize handling and performance, these attributes are precisely where the Stelvio excels. It outpaces its competitors with a more robust base horsepower. Elevating the ante, the Quadrifoglio variant catapults this figure past the 500-horsepower mark, a realm of exhilarating power.

While the Alfa Romeo Stelvio shares dimensions similar to its direct rivals, it possesses a distinct feeling of compactness. This quality proves advantageous in terms of handling, yet it comes with some trade-offs in cargo capacity and front legroom. Regardless, the Stelvio proves itself as an enjoyable SUV that comfortably accommodates up to five adults. Seat comfort earns high marks, and the ride, although firm, delivers a satisfying experience for everyday cruising.