11Nov
Alfa Romeo proudly declares the 2024 Stelvio Quadrifoglio as the fastest SUV available in the North American market. It's a lofty claim based on a 2018 lap time performance that saw the SUV take on and finish the Nurburgring at 7:51.7, making it the fastest mass-produced midsize performance SUV in America, including premium imports that aren't low-volume production or custom models sold in the US market. "The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is an intricately crafted, performance-focused luxury SUV configured with care and built for speed," Alfa Romeo says.
Crowned the Best Compact Performance SUV by US News & World Report for 2023/2024, the 2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is an Italian dreamboat equipped with a heart-pounding 505-hp twin-turbo V6 engine. Although the Report isn't as excited about the interior design and cabin materials, US NWR admits the Stelvio QF is "one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs in its class."
Well, Alfa Romeo did say the QF was built for speed.
However, the SUV's top ranking isn't based solely on mechanical prowess. The report says Stelvio Quadrifoglio's #1 ranking comes from a score of 7.9 out of 10 from evaluating "10 pieces of research and data elements using various sources." This comprehensive comparison explores how the QF outshines top rivals like the Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 M.
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2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vs. Audi SQ5 vs. BMW X3 M: Engine, Powertrain, And Performance
The Stelvio Quadrifoglio stands out with its robust twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 generating an impressive 505 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Its paddle-shifted eight-speed automatic transmission and ethereal chassis contribute to a remarkable 3.3-second 0-60 mph sprint, combining speed and agility. The adaptive dampers provide customizable ride firmness, while its responsive steering and impressive braking capabilities contribute to a sports car-like road manners.
Rounding up to the Audi, the 2024 SQ5 (the S denotes “Sport”) incorporates a twin-scroll turbocharger within its 3-liter engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Although not as quick as the Stelvio, the SQ5 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 5 seconds. Aging gracefully, it maintains a spirited edge with a stiffer suspension and distinctive attitude, presenting a compelling value proposition among its competitors.
Meanwhile, the 2023 BMW X3 M embraces performance with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine churning out 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. Its M-tuned xDrive all-wheel-drive system and comprehensive hardware upgrades contribute to a dynamic driving experience.
With aggressive modifications across the drivetrain, steering, braking, suspension, and exhaust, the X3 M achieves a near-perfect weight distribution, comfortable seating for four (or five), and a spacious 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Most shoppers won’t demand more from a high-performance SUV.
2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vs. Audi SQ5 vs. BMW X3 M: Fuel Economy
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio posts a decent EPA rating of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, resulting in a combined 19 mpg. This outperforms the BMW X3 M, which lags at 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. However, real-world testing of the Stelvio QF on a 75-mph highway route yielded a slightly lower 21 mpg.
Moving to the SQ5, it holds an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined, aligning with the average for sport-oriented small SUVs. Despite the required premium fuel, the SQ5 compensates with an enjoyable and powerful engine, responsive handling, and a less intrusive stability control system. The turbocharged V6 engine adds entertaining thrust and a pleasing soundtrack to the driving experience.
Meanwhile, the 2023 X3 M returns 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, which is still decent estimates for a compact performance SUV. With crisp steering, balanced cornering, and ample grip, the X3 M is a proud performance SUV capable of handling winding roads and quick turns with minimal body roll. Its confidence-inspiring stopping power, courtesy of the brakes, adds to the overall appeal of this BMW in the realm of performance and efficiency.
2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vs. Audi SQ5 vs. BMW X3 M: Interior And Cargo Space
While the Stelvio QF's interior shows some build-quality flaws, its leather-covered and contrast-stitched surfaces surpass those of the regular Stelvio. The QF prioritizes a racetrack-inspired experience with supportive front seats, an ideal driving position, and large paddle shifters.
Standard features like 14-way power-adjustable seats, ambient lighting, and a heated steering wheel enhance its appeal. Despite a comfortable backseat, the Stelvio falls short on headroom and interior cubby storage. However, its cargo capacity impresses, accommodating eight carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 11 more with them folded.
Related Reading: Best Features of the 2024 Lexus RX 450h+: KBB's Best Luxury Hybrid SUV for 2023/2024
Moving to the SQ5, its interior epitomizes luxury SUV comfort with supportive seats, a quiet ride, and effective side bolsters for cornering without sacrificing commute comfort. Minimal cabin noise and customizable engine loudness contribute to a refined driving experience.
The interior layout is intuitive, offering a wide range of adjustments for seats and steering wheel. The 10.1-inch touchscreen, though visually appealing, lacks a controller, forcing the driver to lean forward to use it. In any case, excellent head clearance, large windows, and advanced parking features enhance the SQ5’s overall cabin convenience and visibility.
The 2023 X3 M, on the other hand, shares its updated design with the regular X3 but elevates the experience with exclusive M details. The M version boasts additional features like "M" badging, red drive-mode buttons, and aggressively bolstered front seats. The Competition package offers even more supportive features.
BMW's commitment to upscale aesthetics is evident in the attractive materials, standard leather upholstery, and customizable ambient lighting. Optional premium features include a head-up display, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The X3 M offers ample passenger and cargo space, accommodating seven carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat and 20 with the seatbacks folded.
2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vs. Audi SQ5 vs. BMW X3 M: Tech Features
The Stelvio QF boasts an 8.8-inch touchscreen with a convenient rotary controller, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, built-in navigation, and an optional Wi-Fi hotspot.
Despite some reported visibility issues with icons and delayed navigation directions, the infotainment system impresses with crisp graphics and a customizable layout. Audiophiles will delight in the standard 12-speaker, 900-watt Harman/Kardon audio system.
Moving to the SQ5, technology shines with a high-resolution central touchscreen and responsive digital instrument panel. While the touchscreen requires some leaning to reach, it offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a standard wireless charging station.
Advanced driver aids, including well-calibrated adaptive cruise control and prominent blind-spot warning lights, enhance the driving experience. However, the voice activation system may leave users wanting more due to its strict prompts.
As for the X3 M, the no-nonsense infotainment system is straightforward, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
Intuitive touchscreen menus, a rotary knob for commands, and a host of standard and available features, including a digital instrument cluster and tri-zone automatic climate control, contribute to a modern and user-friendly experience. Additional features like a panoramic moonroof, keyless entry, and remote start elevate the X3 M's tech offerings.
2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vs. Audi SQ5 vs. BMW X3 M: Pricing
The Stelvio QF starts at $94,370. If we cared more about comfort than racing seats, we'd skip the Sparco option and enhance the exterior with the Carbon package, which adds carbon fiber to mirrors, grille, and steering wheel along with a leather-wrapped shift knob.
The Audi SQ5, starting at $57,000, stands out as a good value in its class. Its stealthy appearance outshines pricier competitors like the BMW X3 M40i and the redesigned Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. Only the Genesis GV70 3.5T matches its affordability. While the Porsche Macan S offers superior acceleration, it comes at a considerable premium compared to the SQ5.
With a starting MSRP of $74,400, the 2023 X3 M is a compelling compact performance SUV. The X3 M Competition package, at an additional $7,000, brings a more powerful engine, black gloss grille, sport exhaust, 21-inch black wheels, and upgraded front seats.
However, the base X3 M model remains a solid choice, featuring standard amenities like an adaptive suspension, adaptive differential, leather sport seats, heated front seats, and a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
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