It is rare that I test different powertrains of the same car in consecutive weeks. The subject of this week's review is the electric and petrol hybrid versions of the new Alfa Romeo Junior, namely the 'Electtrica' and the 'Ibrida'.
The Junior adds a bit more depth to Alfa Romeo's new-car lineup, joining the Tonale, Stelvio and Giulia. It is also the smallest. Despite being described as a compact crossover, the Junior's low driving position and cramped rear make it feel like a blend between the foregone Giulietta and Mito.
Regardless of the engine, the Junior is a cracking car and is unmistakably Alfa Romeo. It is great to still be writing that in 2025, as if it was not for the backing of the Stellantis Group, the iconic Italian brand would most likely be no more. Sharing parts with the likes of Peugeot, Opel, Jeep and Fiat has naturally upset the purists, but that is the reality here.
The Junior Electtrica is Alfa's first ever fully-electric vehicle. Driving the front wheels of the Elettrica is a 156hp electric motor with a 54kWh battery and a claimed range of 410km. Much of my time with this EV was spent on motorways, meaning I could not get anywhere near that figure. On back roads, the Junior Electtrica handles brilliantly, and I am not shy to admit I had more fun in the electric version than the petrol.
The Junior range starts from €34,995 and has been price-matched to the petrol version. My Elettrica 'Speciale' trim model brought this price right up to €49,279 (after grant and VRT ). This added a pair of gorgeous bucket seats, alcantara upholstery, a sunroof, and more sophisticated tech. Buyers of this model are probably limited to those with a high disposable income and no dependents.
If that is not enough, they can also opt for the 280hp 'Veloce' range-topper (from €51,495 ).
On the other side of the coin, we have the Junior Ibrida, which combines a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 21kWh electric motor. Output here is 145hp and a range of around 600km. It is a shame there is no manual gearbox option, as I found the six-speed automatic to be slightly lazy under lower revs. I have no complaints with the ride quality as suspension is right up to scratch. The Ibrida gets a more distinctive grille over the Elettrica, but other than that they are identical cars, so pick your poison.
Depending on trim, the interior is pretty much the same in both versions. The 10.25-inch centre screen is angled towards the driver and is flush with the dash. Under this is a bank of physical buttons and a wireless phone charger. Further back is the familiar gear and drive mode selector that we have seen in some newer Peugeot and Opel models. However, rear passengers have seemingly been forgotten about, as legroom is cramped and there are no cup holders or even doorbins. Boot space is up to 415-litres (400-litres in the Electtrica ).
It really was great to be back behind the wheel of an Alfa Romeo. I do hope the Junior represents a new dawn for the brand, and it can kick on with more head-turning models for many more years to come.
