ALFA ROMEO GIULIA

Price on application.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Price on application.

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This Italian junior executive saloon, which replaces the 159, has the BMW 3 Series squarely in its sights. Unlike its frontwheel- drive predecessor, the Giulia boasts rear-wheel-drive and balanced weight distribution. And instead of a clunky robotised manual gearbox, the Giulia is equipped with a smoother 8-speed automatic. The turbocharged 2-litre petrol variant with 200bhp should be quick enough for most buyers, but there’s also a 510bhp Quadrifoglio version for those who wish to frighten M3 owners.

RIVAL: BMW 3 SERIES.