2017 Alfa Romeo Stelvio SUV On Its Final Test Phase Before LA Debut

Alfa Romeo is putting the final touches on its upcoming crossover, set to be named Stelvio, before it debuts next month at the LA Auto Show.

With the official reveal date approaching, Alfa Romeo removed all of the body cladding we saw on earlier prototypes, exposing the shape of their new SUV for the first time (likely, intentionally).

It’s no surprise then to see the new Stelvio adopting the styling of the Giulia. Only a thin layer of camouflage wrap appears to be applied on the bodywork, exposing a sporty sloping roofline and a front end arrangement that’s almost the same with the brand’s four-door sedan.

After all, the two models ride on the same platform and are expected to share most of their components, including powertrains as well. Alfa Romeo’s upcoming SUV will be powered by a range of turbocharged four- and six- cylinders units, with the range-topping version to use the twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 found in the Giulia Quadrifoglio. It is believed that Alfa Romeo will offer their new model in both rear-drive and AWD versions.

As for the prototype you see in the pictures, this is likely the range-topping twin-turbo V6 model, judging from the huge twin exhaust pipes that are integrated in the rear bumper. It’s no secret that Alfa Romeo wants to set the lap record for SUVs on the Nurburgring with the Stelvio.

The cabin is lifted almost in its entirety from the Giulia, as our previous scoop exposed, with the dashboard, center console and steering wheel appearing to be the exact same.

The new Alfa Romeo Stelvio will have to fight models like the Mercedes GLC, the BMW X3, the Audi Q5 and the Porsche Macan once it hits the market in early 2017. It won’t be easy but given the Giulia has been well received so far, all Alfa Romeo has to do is repeat the same recipe for it.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops