Alfa Romeo Stelvio I (949) (2016 – 2022)

Reliability score : 8.0/10

The Stelvio (Type 949) is the first SUV in Alfa Romeo's history. Based on the excellent Giorgio platform shared with the Giulia sedan, it immediately established itself as the dynamic benchmark in its segment, offering road handling worthy of a sports sedan, ultra-direct steering, and ideal weight distribution (50/50). While Phase 1 models (2016-2019) suffered from shortcomings in interior finish and an outdated infotainment system, the 2020 model year update corrected these issues with more upscale materials, a redesigned touchscreen, and the integration of Level 2 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). In terms of reliability, the petrol engines (GME) are generally robust, although the onboard electronics experienced some early issues. Overall note: An enthusiast's SUV, demanding in

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a choice of passion that proves surprisingly rational with the petrol engine (2.0 Turbo 200 or 280 hp). Contrary to brand clichés, the mechanics are robust if maintenance is scrupulously respected. The main inconveniences come from the onboard electronics and a light finish on the first model years. For a worry-free purchase, favor a petrol model from the 2020 model year onwards (revised interior, touchscreen infotainment, better sound insulation) with a complete service history. Avoid examples with neglected oil changes or displaying "Christmas trees" on the dashboard (often linked to a weak battery, but sometimes to corroded BCM modules).

Common issues

Problèmes électroniques et d'infodivertissement (logiciel, écran tactile, connectivité) Medium
🔧 10 000 – 60 000 km
💶 300 – 1 000 € (mise à jour logicielle, remplacement module)
Vérifier le bon fonctionnement de tous les systèmes électroniques lors de l'essai.
Défaillance de capteurs électriques (ABS, pression des pneus, aide au stationnement) Medium
🔧 40 000 – 100 000 km
💶 200 – 500 € (remplacement capteur et main-d'œuvre)
Surveiller les voyants d'alerte au tableau de bord et l'historique des pannes.
Usure prématurée des plaquettes et disques de frein (avant, surtout versions puissantes) Low
🔧 30 000 – 60 000 km
💶 350 – 700 € (par essieu, plaquettes et disques)
Prévoir un budget pour les freins, surtout si conduite dynamique.
Fuites d'huile mineures (joints de carter, cache-culbuteurs sur 2.0L Turbo) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 300 – 800 € (remplacement des joints concernés)
Vérifier régulièrement le niveau d'huile et l'absence de taches sous le véhicule.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £140 – 220
Complete brakes £500 – 1 000
Estimated annual budget £700 – 1 400

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.