What's the news?

Alfa Romeo has introduced the Sportiva trim level for its MiTo and Giulietta models. The new guise is based on the current top-spec trim levels, but offers buyers both exterior and interior upgrades.

Exterior

Starting with the MiTo, the first things to notice are the massive new 18-inch Quadrifoglio Verde alloy-wheels; behind which red brake callipers are fitted. Sports kick plates and Sportiva badges also feature; as they do on the Giulietta. The Giulietta Sportiva is based on the already sporty-looking Veloce model; and also adds large red Brembo callipers to its brakes. The wheels have also been upgraded to 18-inch items, which have a dark titanium finish.

Interior

Interior toys for the MiTo Sportiva come from the range-topping Distinctive model, which now has a black and green colour scheme. The headlining has been made darker, the steering wheel and handbrake are now coated in black leather, and the seats are trimmed in Alcantara. Green contrast stitching features on all of the above. The Giulietta also gains leather sports upholstery, and the rear armrest has a storage compartment.

Mechanicals

The MiTo Sportiva is available with the 85hp 875cc TB TwinAir engine, the 1.4-litre TB MultiAir unit, and the 1.6-litre JTDM-2 diesel powerplant. The Giulietta on the other hand is offered with a choice of six engines; and is also available with Alfa's new twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox, called TCT.

Anything else?

Prices for both models are higher than their range topping counterparts; however, equipment levels outweigh the higher prices. The MiTo Sportiva starts at £16,100 - a £750 increase despite having £1,500 worth of upgrades. The Giulietta costs £1,860 more than the Veloce model at £23,110; however the Sportiva boasts £3,000 worth of optional extras. Both cars are available to order now.

James Giddings - 24 Aug 2012