Efficiency & Charging
7/10
Performance & Driving Dynamics
7.5/10
Interior & Technology
7.5/10
Practicality & Usability
7.5/10
Value & Running Costs
7/10
Overall
7.5/10
Overview
The Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica marks a significant milestone for the iconic Italian brand, as it steps into the electric vehicle market with its first electric model. Designed as a premium compact crossover, this car aims to fill the gap left by the discontinued MiTo and Giulietta hatchbacks. Built on the same e-CMP2 platform as other Stellantis models like the Jeep Avenger and Peugeot e-2008, the Junior Elettrica targets a different audience. Produced in Poland, this model is crucial for attracting younger customers.
Design
The car's exterior, crafted by Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, features a bold design. The front sports distinctive adaptive LED matrix headlights, echoing the SZ, and flanking a reimagined 'scudetto' V-shaped grille. This grille is intricately detailed with the Visconti logo, featuring the serpent and cross emblem. Muscular wheel arches emphasize the car's broad stance, while the sleek profile ends with the 'coda tronca' design, inspired by the aerodynamic lines of classic race cars like the Giulia TZ.
Interior
Inside, the Junior Elettrica caters to the driver with a focus that sets it apart from other Stellantis vehicles. The 10.25-inch digital instrument panel sits within a retro-styled, double bubble 'cannocchiale' binnacle. A second 10.25-inch display handles media and climate controls, angled towards the driver and supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior features soft-touch materials and physical buttons for climate control, though some hard plastics remain lower on the dashboard. Higher trims enhance sportiness with black and red Alcantara leather sports seats and an Alcantara leather steering wheel.
Performance & Powertrains
Powering the Junior Elettrica are two models with a 54 kWh battery and two front-wheel-drive options. The base model delivers 156 hp and 265 Nm of torque, achieving 0-62 mph in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 93 mph, with a range of 256 miles. The Veloce version boasts 280 hp and 345 Nm, sprinting to 62 mph in 5.9 seconds with a top speed of 124 mph. However, these enhancements reduce the range to 200 miles. The Veloce also features a lowered ride height, stiffer anti-roll bars, and larger 380mm front brakes with four-piston calipers.
Practicality
Measuring 4,173 mm in length, the Junior Elettrica balances city driving with practicality. The front offers ample space, thanks to a fully adjustable steering wheel and generous seat travel. Storage includes a phone charging slot on the center console and a cable compartment under the hood. Rear legroom is limited, making it ideal for four passengers. The trunk offers 400 liters of space, expanding to 1,265 liters with the rear seats folded.
Buying
Starting at £33,900, the Junior Elettrica is competitively priced. Standard features include a heat pump, 18-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, and a dual-screen infotainment system. The Speciale version adds satellite navigation, level two autonomous driving, and premium leather upholstery. The top-tier Veloce version costs £42,300. EV Hub recommends the midrange Speciale for its balance of features and performance, offering the full driving range of the 156 hp engine, along with satellite navigation, an electric massage chair, and a reversing camera.