ALFA ROMEO HAS launched a new version of its flagship saloon, the Giulia. Called the Giulia Veloce, it is something of a halfway house between the hugely entertaining (and expensive) €100,000 Giulia Quadrifoglio, and the more mainstream diesel versions.

It is powered by a 280hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which also generates a healthy 400Nm of torque. That same engine also powers the forthcoming SUV, called the Stelvio. Performance is equally brisk with the Giulia Veloce taking just 5.7 seconds to reach 100km/h from rest. If you happen to find yourself on a private runway or unrestricted German autobahn, you could also experience the 240km/h top speed.

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Despite having more power on tap Alfa hasn’t lost sight of the more realistic side of ownership, hence CO2 emissions have been kept to 141g/km, which places it into band C for annual motor tax (€390 per annum). According to Alfa Romeo’s claimed figures, the Giulia Veloce consumes 6.1 litres/100km or 46mpg in old money.

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Pricing for the Giulia Veloce will start at €53,895 in Ireland, with standard equipment including Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, parking sensors front and rear as well as a reversing camera.

The interior comes in a choice of black, tan or red leather sports seats. Visual differences include an exclusive Misano Blue colour, distinct bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels with painted brake calipers, privacy glass in the rear and a sportier diffuser at the back.

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On the technology and safety side of things, the Giulia Veloce features Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning, cruise control with speed limiter and Forward Collision Warning.

Order books are open now.

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