Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce 280 2019 first drive

As one half of a two-pronged return to form, alongside the Stelvio SUV, the Alfa Romeo Giulia has helped re-establish the brand as a purveyor of fine driving cars. But it hasn't been the sales success the brand was hoping for, losing out to rivals that may not be more dynamic but are certainly better equipped.

That an improved infotainment system was the first bullet point on the press material for this facelifted version should indicate just how vocal customers and critics were over the Giulia’s shortcomings. Understandable, then, that this mid-life refresh seeks to add much-needed technology updates and overhaul interior fit and finish, rather than tweak an already stellar driving experience. 

So much so that beyond the handful of new paint options, the only exterior changes are to the trim level badges: silver lettering now signifies more mainstream models, black is reserved for sportier versions. The range has also been simplified to Super, Sprint, Lusso Ti and Veloce, with a new Business line dedicated to fleet sales in certain markets.

The engine line-up also remains unchanged, with a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel (both turbocharged) available in several states of tune. The 276bhp of our Veloce Ti test car is the most potent until the refreshed Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio comes on song next summer.

Almost every change has been made inside, with the centre console receiving the most attention. Cheaper black plastics have been exchanged for glossier fixtures, while the rotary infotainment dial is now much firmer and more substantial. The sharp-edged plastic gearstick of the outgoing car has been swapped for a leather-wrapped item that instantly feels more premium under your hand, and an Italian tricolore now flanks it as a gentle reminder to the car’s heritage. Wireless smartphone charging has also been added beneath the central armrest, which gains more stowage space.

The centrally mounted 8.8in display hasn’t grown but does receive a completely new interface, with modern graphics and easy-to-read text that make much better use of space. The main screen can be customised with a series of widgets and is now touch-sensitive, although physical controls remain. 

The 7.0in digital instrument display receives fewer changes, with a tweaked interface highlighting the additional driver assistance systems, which include adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance and traffic sign recognition. It’s still flanked by analogue dials, though, which feels out of step with the fully digital displays seen in the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.