Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs. Volvo XC60: Complete comparison 2026

Alfa Romeo Stelvio brings unmistakable Italian passion and driving dynamics to the premium mid-size SUV segment, rivaling that of sports cars. In contrast, the Volvo XC60 is built on entirely different values, attracting customers with minimalist Scandinavian elegance, top-tier safety, and maximum travel comfort. In this comparison, we take a detailed look at both of these diametrically opposed approaches to a luxury family car to help you decide which one better suits your daily needs and deserves a place in your garage.

When you place the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Volvo XC60 side by side, you find that their exterior proportions are surprisingly similar. Both premium SUVs share almost identical basic length and width to the millimeter. While the Italian model measures 4,687 mm in length and 1,903 mm in width as standard, its Swedish competitor is practically identical with a length of 4,688 mm and a width of 1,902 mm. In terms of maneuvering in parking lots, underground garages, or narrow city streets, there is no choosing between them – both cars have a nearly identical footprint and require the same amount of space from the driver. Additionally, with the Alfa Romeo, you might come across the top-of-the-line Quadrifoglio version, which is slightly longer and wider due to its sporty accessories.

More interesting differences appear when looking at the wheelbase. The Volvo XC60 offers a wheelbase of 2,865 mm, which is 47 mm more than the Alfa Romeo (2,818 mm). This difference in favor of the Nordic SUV translates positively into longitudinal cabin space, primarily benefiting rear-seat passengers. Furthermore, the longer wheelbase contributes to a smoother and more stable ride on highways, which perfectly aligns with Volvo's typically comfort-oriented focus. Conversely, the Stelvio intentionally relies on a shorter wheelbase, which, combined with sharper steering, gives it more agile and sporty driving characteristics in winding corners.

Regarding overall height, the Alfa Romeo surprisingly slightly exceeds its Swedish competitor. While the Volvo XC60 stays at 1,658 mm for roughly four-year-old used cars, the Stelvio reaches a height of up to 1,693 mm. Although one might expect a more crouched silhouette from a car with such strong sporting DNA, the Alfa's taller build can offer a slightly more upright driving position and make daily entry feel easier. Ultimately, the Volvo will appeal to those looking for a used family car with more generous space for rear passengers, while the Alfa Romeo will attract drivers who prefer more nimble vehicle responses without having to make significant compromises in daily practicality.

Trunk capacity is one of the key parameters when choosing a mid-size family SUV. Practicality and the ability to accommodate all luggage play just as important a role for many buyers as the driving characteristics or comfort on board. In the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, where the Italian Alfa Romeo Stelvio and the second generation of the Swedish Volvo XC60 often face off, you will encounter surprisingly different approaches to the use of interior space, which can fundamentally influence your final decision.

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio will please drivers looking not only for a dynamic ride but also for unexpectedly generous luggage space. In its basic configuration, it offers a generous trunk with a volume of 525 liters. However, if you fold down the rear seats, you get a space of an impressive 1600 liters, which is perfectly sufficient for a weekend shopping trip or a longer vacation with the whole family. The competing Volvo XC60 in its classic and mild-hybrid engine versions provides a slightly more modest 483 liters as standard, with its transport capacity increasing to 1410 liters after folding down the backrests. In a direct comparison, the Italian representative scores significantly by offering space for several extra suitcases, which is a very pleasant surprise for a premium SUV with a sporty character.

When buying a used Volvo XC60, it is also necessary to monitor the chosen engine, as you will encounter versions with different capacities on the market. Increasingly popular plug-in hybrid variants labeled Recharge (T6 and T8) have a slightly reduced volume due to the placement of the heavy traction battery, specifically 468 liters in the base and 1395 liters with the rear seats folded. Although Volvo lags behind its Italian rival in absolute numbers, it bravely makes up for this minor handicap in the field of practicality. The Swedish SUV scores with the regular shapes of its side walls, well-thought-out fixing systems, and especially a perfectly flat loading area without a loading sill, which makes handling heavy cargo as easy as possible.

If you plan to hitch a caravan, boat, or heavy trailer behind your car, both of these premium SUVs (focusing on models approximately four years old) offer very solid figures, but there are important differences between them. The trailer weight fundamentally affects the overall practicality of the vehicle for active families looking for a car that offers not only interior space for a few extra suitcases but also enough towing power for a weekend purchase of bulky materials or a longer holiday with a heavy caravan.

Both the standard and maximum braked trailer weights for both models are above average, while the unbraked trailer has the same legislative limit of 750 kg for both cars. For the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the capacity depends significantly on the specific engine. Weaker petrol versions 2.0 Turbo (147 kW) have a standard towing capacity of 1600 kg, while more powerful petrol (206 kW) and popular 2.2 Diesel variants can pull a respectable 2300 kg.

The Swedish Volvo XC60 performs even slightly better in terms of maximum values. Most of its mild-hybrid engines (B4, B5, B6) and popular diesel versions (D4) can tow 2300 to 2400 kg. However, a more significant difference in the Volvo is represented by the plug-in hybrid versions (T6 and T8), where, due to the additional weight of the traction batteries, a slightly reduced capacity of 2100 to 2250 kg must be expected. Even this reduced limit is, however, perfectly usable for transporting most common loads without any problems.

Final summary: The Volvo XC60 is the slightly stronger contender in this comparison, as the vast majority of its engines offer a capacity reaching up to 2400 kg. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio lags only slightly behind with its powerful engines (2300 kg); however, with the base petrol version, you are significantly limited by a 1600 kg limit. For the hybrid versions of the Volvo, a slight compromise must be expected, although values safely exceeding two tonnes will not pose any obstacle for the vast majority of users in real life.

When comparing the engine options of these two premium SUVs, the completely different philosophies of the two brands are clearly revealed, which is a key factor for those interested in a car roughly four years old. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio bets on passion, driving dynamics, and classic internal combustion engines that give the car an unmistakable sporting character. Standard diesel and petrol versions of the Italian representative benefit from excellent pairing with a lightning-fast eight-speed gearbox and focus primarily on performance and immediate response. Conversely, the Volvo XC60 takes a determined path of modern technology, maximum refinement, and widespread electrification. While you won't find any hybrids in this generation of the Alfa, the Swedes have completely electrified their range and deployed efficient mild-hybrids or extremely powerful plug-in hybrids. The Stelvio will thus delight enthusiastic drivers and lovers of the old ways looking for emotion behind the wheel, while the XC60 will perfectly serve drivers focused on the family budget, ecology, and a quiet, unhurried ride.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

The engine range for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio is pleasantly straightforward and completely avoids complex electrified systems. For used car buyers, this can be very attractive due to theoretically lower future service costs. There is no ordinary "weak" base here – the entry point to the world of petrol is the turbocharged 2.0 Turbo 16V four-cylinder with 147 kW (200 hp), complemented by an even sharper variant with 206 kW (280 hp). Lovers of long motorway journeys and fans of lower fuel consumption will most often reach for the reliable all-aluminum 2.2 Diesel engine. This was gradually available in versions with 118 kW (160 hp), 140 kW (190 hp), and the top 154 kW (210 hp). A major asset of the entire model range is the standard-fit excellent ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Although weaker diesel engines could also be purchased with pure rear-wheel drive, most used cars on the market boast the Q4 all-wheel-drive system with a strong rear-axle preference, underlining the fantastic driving experience. The proverbial gem for connoisseurs and collectors is the uncompromising Quadrifoglio version with a 2.9 V6 Bi-Turbo, born in collaboration with Ferrari. This provides the driver with a crushing 375 kW, or 382 kW in the most recent model years.

Volvo XC60

The second generation of the Volvo XC60 offers a significantly more diverse, but inherently also technically more complex, range of powertrains on the used car market. Modern technology and an emphasis on low fuel consumption prevail in the offering. An important fact for used car buyers is that pure internal combustion engines such as the petrol T4 and T5, or the very popular D3, D4, and D5 diesels, were phased out between 2020 and 2021. You will essentially no longer find them in younger used cars, as the Swedish brand has fully replaced them with updated mild-hybrid variants (labeled B). In these, a small onboard electric motor helps with smoother starts and the unobtrusive operation of the start-stop system. Diesel versions, whether the older D4 (140 kW) or the more modern B4 Diesel (145 kW) and B5 Diesel (173 kW), play the role of excellent and economical motorway cruisers. With the exception of the long-discontinued manual in the D3 version, power is handled by the comfortable Geartronic eight-speed automatic. A separate elite chapter is the exceptionally successful T6 Recharge and T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid units. These combine a two-liter petrol engine with massive assistance from an independent electric motor. They can travel approximately 45 kilometers purely on electricity, and the top T8 version boasts a staggering combined output exceeding 300 kW, making even a family SUV an inconspicuous rocket.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with these premium SUVs. Our recommendation is based on real-world experience, mechanical reliability, and everyday practicality. Each manufacturer approaches the powertrain from a different angle – while the Italian Stelvio boasts an ultra-lightweight construction with a carbon fiber driveshaft even in the base trim, which dramatically improves driving response, Sweden's Volvo, on the other hand, promotes maximum safety (including a blanket top speed limit of 180 km/h) and a strong lean towards mild-hybrid electrification. In the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, we are thus choosing between a mechanical Italian classic and Swedish hi-tech efficiency.

For the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, we recommend: 2.2 Diesel Q4 (154 kW / 210 hp)

This engine represents an absolutely ideal choice on the used car market for those looking for the perfect compromise between driving experience and reasonable operating costs. The all-aluminum four-cylinder diesel is paired with an excellent eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and the rear-biased (on-demand all-wheel drive) Q4 system.

• Why it's the best choice: Although the two-liter petrol engines give the Alfa a more explosive character, they are quite thirsty in the real world. The 210 hp diesel variant provides the roughly 1.7-ton SUV with effortless dynamics and perfectly complements the phenomenal, sport-oriented chassis without breaking the bank at the gas station.
• Technical advantages: The greatest weapon of this engine is the massive 470 Nm of torque available from just 1750 rpm. In real-world driving, fuel consumption easily stays between 7 and 8 liters per 100 km.
• Risks and what to watch out for: Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging – This engine physically suffers during constant city stop-and-go driving. If DPF regeneration is not successful, the control unit may interrupt the process, risking engine oil dilution with diesel. Check the vehicle's service history, or physically verify on the dipstick that the oil level is not rising dangerously, which is a major sign of the engine struggling in the city.
• Who it's for: For dynamically minded drivers who spend most of their time on highways or longer backroad routes, where the engine has the space to warm up properly and regenerate the emission systems.

For the Volvo XC60, we recommend: B4 Diesel AWD (145 kW / 197 hp)

For roughly four-year-old XC60s (second generation), it's worth reaching for the updated mild-hybrid unit labeled B4 Diesel, which seamlessly replaced the previous popular D4 engines in the lineup. It consists of a two-liter diesel and a 48V starter-generator.

• Why it's the best choice: The XC60 is a robust, comfortable, and relatively heavy car (often approaching two tons). The 197 hp output is perfectly sufficient for the car's purpose, and the AWD all-wheel drive ensures confidence in all weather conditions. Electrification makes a lot of sense here, as it effectively smooths out any gearbox delays when pulling away.
• Technical advantages: The integrated electric motor covers the so-called "turbo lag" and makes the start-stop system almost imperceptible. The combined torque of 420 Nm pulls linearly and quietly. You can typically drive this family cruiser with a very pleasant 6.5 to 7.5 liters per 100 km.
• Risks and what to watch out for: More complex sensors and the AdBlue system – Just like with the Alfa, city driving does not suit the engine. Pay attention to the condition of the DPF and the electronic oil level gauge in the infotainment. Volvo also occasionally struggled with more sensitive nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensors in the "B" generation of engines. Always demand a full service history and check that the car's software has undergone the latest updates at the dealer, which resolve a number of teething problems.
• Who it's for: For families and defensive drivers who demand absolute safety, tomb-like silence on board, soft responses, and peace of mind during long highway journeys from their SUV.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers are often far from reality nowadays, which is why it is crucial to follow the daily experiences of owners themselves when choosing an approximately four-year-old used car. Data obtained from user portals, such as the German Spritmonitor, give us a much clearer picture of the appetite with which these premium models actually drive. The comparison below focuses on the real average consumption of the most common engine variants of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Volvo XC60, where we focused mainly on generations and drivetrains relevant to the used car market from 2020 to 2022.

Looking at real data, it is evident that diesel engines firmly defend their place in such large mid-size SUVs. Volvo XC60 diesel engines (more recently labeled B4 and B5) benefit slightly from added mild-hybrid technology, which can save valuable tenths of a liter in city traffic. However, the classic Italian 2.2 Diesel four-cylinder under the Stelvio's hood proves that it can operate highly efficiently even without battery assistance, and both cars easily fit within the seven-liter limit under normal use.

More noticeable differences come in the world of petrol. Alfa Romeo's two-liter turbo (2.0 Turbo 16V) is built for a pure driving experience and fierce dynamics, where the small engine displacement ensures lightning-fast reactions rather than economy – real consumption here therefore quite easily approaches and occasionally exceeds the ten-liter mark. Swedish petrol mild-hybrids B4 and B5 are slightly more economical, but they are still not exactly thrifty cars. A specific case is the extremely popular T6 and T8 Recharge plug-in hybrids from Volvo. Unlike official tests promising figures around one liter, reality shows a huge range. If the owner charges regularly, the car operates at a fraction of normal costs, but with a discharged battery on the highway, the heavy Volvo has consumption identical to regular internal combustion versions, partly due to its higher weight.

For the typical user and driver covering long highway distances, both cars in diesel versions remain an absolutely ideal choice. Consumption can ultimately be a decisive factor, especially for budget-conscious buyers or people commuting from the suburbs to the center – while Volvo offers technically advanced plug-in hybrids suitable for daily emission-free commuting (provided you have a home wallbox), the petrol Alfa Romeo's thirstiness makes it clear that its main priority is always and under all circumstances exclusively driving emotions.

Price Comparison in the Used Car Market

Looking at used cars approximately four years old (mostly 2021 and 2022 models) reveals an interesting difference in how both models hold their value. Both the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Volvo XC60 started as new cars with a premium price tag, but the used car market has a different dynamic that perfectly reflects the preferences of European buyers.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio (2021–2022 models)

Alfa Romeo generally faces a slightly steeper depreciation curve in the first years of operation, making it an extremely attractive choice on the secondary market.

• Starting price: The cheapest units, usually with the reliable 2.2 JTD diesel engine and higher mileage around 100,000 km, can be purchased today starting from €25,000.
• The golden middle ground: Well-maintained models with the powerful 2.0 Turbo petrol engine (e.g., in the popular and handsome Veloce trim) with mileage up to 50,000 km range between €33,000 and €41,000.
• Top-of-the-line offer: The extreme performance Quadrifoglio variant with a V6 engine developed in collaboration with Ferrari is in a league of its own, and its prices rarely drop below €66,000 even after years.

Volvo XC60 (2021–2022 models)

Volvo traditionally holds its value very well on the used car market. The reason is its strong reputation as an exceptionally safe, practical, and timeless family car.

• Starting price: The entry point into the world of four-year-old XC60s are the versions labeled B4 (mild-hybrid diesels or petrols) with higher mileage. Here, prices start at approximately €27,000.
• The golden middle ground: Models with highly desirable trim levels like R-Design or Inscription with efficient and powerful B4 and B5 engines consistently sell for €35,000 to €45,000.
• Top-of-the-line offer: For the sophisticated T6 and T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid versions (often promising a pure electric range of around 50 km), you will pay between €41,000 and €54,000, depending on the condition of the traction battery and optional equipment.

Overview of Estimated Used Car Prices (approx. 4 years old)

Both models earned the maximum five-star rating in their independent Euro NCAP crash tests. However, when choosing a used car, it is essential to view this result in the correct context. Euro NCAP testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming more stringent, meaning that percentage results from different years are not directly comparable. Newer tests already include, for example, advanced frontal impact simulations with a moving barrier, more precise cyclist detection, or the reactions of assistance systems at intersections. From the perspective of the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, the situation for comparison is ideal – both cars underwent testing in the same year (2017), when their tested generations were launched. We can thus compare them head-to-head, although it should be kept in mind that their five-star certification has formally expired according to today's much stricter safety standards.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio performed excellently in the tests, particularly in the area of passive safety. Thanks to the outstanding structural rigidity of its lightweight Giorgio platform, it achieved a superb 97% in adult occupant protection, which at the time of its launch ranked it among the safest vehicles for the occupants during the impact itself. It also showed solid results in child protection (84%). However, a significant weakness of this sportily-styled SUV at the time was the absence of a wider range of active assistants in the standard equipment. For safety assistance systems, Alfa Romeo therefore took home a rating of only 60%, as it lacked more advanced functions for predicting and preventing accidents at higher speeds.

Volvo XC60, on the other hand, absolutely excelled in the tests, confirming the Swedish brand's reputation as a global leader in automotive safety. It earned an almost unbeatable 98% in adult protection and managed 87% for child protection. However, the truly vast difference compared to its Italian competitor was revealed in the safety assistance systems category, where Volvo triumphed with a massive 95% score. This is thanks to the exceptionally rich standard equipment, which already included advanced autonomous braking responding to pedestrians, cyclists, large animals, and approaching vehicles at intersections in the base model.

When comparing these two models, the conclusion is quite clear. Although passive occupant protection is at a top-tier and comparable level for both premium SUVs, Volvo offers a much more comprehensive approach to avoiding the accident itself. From the perspective of current safety requirements, a roughly four-year-old Volvo XC60 offers a significantly richer package of active assistants, making it a demonstrably more advanced and safer choice, especially for family use.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. While the Italian SUV appeals to emotions and driving enthusiasm, the Swedish representative bets on calmness, innovative technology, and maximum comfort on board.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio: Driving Passion and Carbon Fiber Engineering

• Giorgio Platform and Carbon Fiber Driveshaft (Chassis): Alfa Romeo built the Stelvio on a premium architecture focused on perfect weight distribution (50:50). A unique feature in this class is the use of a carbon fiber driveshaft as standard across all engine options, which reduces the car's weight and speeds up the powertrain response.
• Extremely Quick Steering (Driving Experience): No other family SUV in this age category offers such a fast and direct steering ratio. As a result, the Stelvio feels much smaller and more agile behind the wheel, diving into corners with the precision of a sports sedan.
• Massive Aluminum Paddles (Interior and Design): Instead of small plastic buttons on the steering wheel, the Stelvio offers huge shift paddles milled from a single piece of aluminum, fixed to the steering column. This Ferrari-inspired feature makes manual gear selection an exceptional tactile experience.
• Q4 All-Wheel Drive System (Traction): The all-wheel drive in the Stelvio operates as a rear-wheel drive under normal conditions (transferring 100% of power to the rear). Only when a loss of grip is detected can it instantly send up to 50% of torque to the front axle. The system thus maintains the fun character of rear-wheel drive while providing confidence in the winter months.
• DNA Drive Mode Selector (Electronics): The iconic rotary dial on the center console adjusts the behavior of the engine, the eight-speed ZF transmission, and the brakes. Switching to "Dynamic" mode noticeably sharpens the throttle mapping for maximum driver engagement.

Volvo XC60: Scandinavian Luxury and Smart Connectivity

• Infotainment with Google Android Automotive (Connectivity): Models from approximately 2021 onwards (depending on production date) were among the first on the market to switch to an operating system developed directly by Google. The ecosystem includes fully integrated Google Maps, Google Assistant voice control, and the ability to download third-party apps directly from Google Play.
• Orrefors Crystal Gear Shifter (Design and Comfort): Higher trim levels and plug-in hybrid models boast a small but fascinating detail – an automatic transmission selector handmade from Swedish Orrefors crystal. This adds a touch of genuine Scandinavian exclusivity to the interior.
• Bowers & Wilkins Audio System (Electronics): The optional 15-speaker audio system is among the absolute best in the entire automotive industry. The iconic tweeter in the center of the dashboard minimizes acoustic reflections from the windshield. The "Gothenburg Concert Hall" acoustic mode is also unique.
• Orthopedic Seats and Sustainable Materials (Comfort): Seats in Volvo cars are designed by engineers in collaboration with orthopedists for maximum body support on long journeys. Instead of traditional leather, the XC60 also offers premium Tailored Wool Blend upholstery, which is breathable, pleasantly cool in summer, and warm in winter.
• Pilot Assist System (Assistance Systems): Advanced telematics combine adaptive cruise control with precise lane-centering. The system monitors traffic and road markings, providing smooth steering support, which radically reduces driver fatigue during long highway trips and stop-and-go traffic.

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is the clear choice for driving enthusiasts who expect sporty performance from an SUV and don't want to blend in with the crowd. It is ideal for those who are willing to sacrifice a bit of practicality and comfort in exchange for a huge dose of emotion and genuine driving pleasure.

The Volvo XC60 is the perfect premium SUV for families looking for maximum safety, peace on board, and understated Scandinavian luxury. It perfectly suits drivers who require comfortable and quiet long-distance highway cruising without any ambitions for sporty driving.

Based on long-term user experience, service bulletins, and data provided by our comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems you should watch out for with these approximately four-year-old SUVs.

The first-generation Alfa Romeo Stelvio suffers mainly from minor quirks in the onboard electronics, while its mechanical foundation and engines are surprisingly robust and reliable when properly maintained.

• Electronics and software: Alfa Romeo is very sensitive to the state of the battery. If the battery is weak, the car often lights up a plethora of random error messages on the dashboard (the so-called "Christmas tree"), even though there is physically nothing wrong with the car. The infotainment in pre-2020 models was known for slower responses and occasional freezing, which the facelift largely resolved.
• Chassis and steering: Many new owners are startled by the "skipping" or "pushing" of the front wheels at full lock at low speeds (for example, when parking). This is not a defect, but a manifestation of the front axle's sporty geometry (Ackermann effect). However, the price for great driving characteristics is demonstrably faster wear of the front tires.
• Diesel engines (2.2 JTDM): Mechanically, these diesels are very durable, but if you drive the car frequently on short city trips, there is a risk of rapid clogging of the EGR valve and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). In older models, problems with the oil pump relay appeared exceptionally.
• Petrol engines (2.0 Turbo): Here, adhering to shortened engine oil change intervals (ideally every 10,000 to 15,000 km) is absolutely critical. When intervals are exceeded, degraded oil causes sticking and subsequent expensive damage to the delicate MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve control system.

The second-generation Volvo XC60 is an exceptionally safe and luxurious SUV, but its highly complex modern technology and emphasis on ecology can take their toll as age and mileage increase.

• Diesel engines (D4, D5, B4, B5): A very well-known and common pain point in more powerful versions (D5) is a bursting pressure hose of the PowerPulse system, which helps spin up the turbocharger. The fault manifests as a sudden drop in power. In older two-liter diesels of the VEA family, coolant leaks through micro-cracks in the EGR valve cooler also frequently occurred.
• Plug-in hybrid systems (T6 and T8 Recharge): The highly complex powertrain combines a supercharger, turbocharger, and electric motor. In used cars, failures can occur in the Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) module. Repairs to this hardware are technologically demanding and very expensive without a factory warranty.
• Infotainment and onboard systems: The multimedia system with a vertical screen (Sensus and the newer Android Automotive-based system) can suffer from slower loading immediately after starting. Occasional freezes and connectivity drops are usually solved by the relatively frequent software updates that the car requires.
• Chassis and brakes: The XC60 is a very heavy car (plug-in hybrids weigh well over two tons), which negatively affects the below-average lifespan of brake discs and pads. Versions equipped with optional air suspension may require expensive replacement of leaking air bellows or a failing compressor in used cars with higher mileage.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Although both of these premium SUVs are very attractive, each has its own specifics and weak points that are worth focusing on when choosing a used car. To avoid costly repairs, the best step is always a comprehensive car inspection, which reveals hidden defects on the chassis, engine wear, and electronic errors.

When choosing an Alfa Romeo Stelvio:

• Sensitivity to battery condition and electronics: The Stelvio is extremely sensitive to even the slightest drop in voltage. Before the test drive, check if the dashboard reports random errors (e.g., non-functional start-stop system, driver assistance system failures, or engine errors). If so, the cause is often not a fatal fault, but simply a dying AGM battery.
• Smoothness of the ZF automatic transmission: The eight-speed automatic is among the best on the market and should shift absolutely silkily. During the drive, try sharp acceleration as well as slow crawling in traffic. If the transmission kicks, hesitates, or jerks when downshifting, it could be a neglected oil change (recommended after 80,000–100,000 kilometers) or worn clutches.
• Front axle and geometry: Alfa Romeo has very sharp and steep steering, which is sensitive to correct settings. Inspect the tires for uneven wear. During the test drive over bumps and when turning at full lock, listen for any knocking sounds from the front axle. Worn control arms or steering linkages appear more frequently on this sport-oriented SUV.
• DPF filter condition and RPM fluctuations (for 2.2 JTDm engines): If you are buying a diesel version, find out its history. Short city trips do not suit these engines and quickly clog the particulate filter. During a cold start, watch if the engine suffers from fluctuating idle RPM, and while driving, focus on whether it has a noticeable delay or "chokes" when the gas pedal is pressed.

When choosing a Volvo XC60:

• Infotainment and software: From around 2021, Volvo switched to the Android Automotive system for this model. Early versions of this software could suffer from screen freezes, GPS dropouts, or a non-functional audio system. During the test drive, click through the menus, try the navigation and phone pairing. Make sure the display responds smoothly and that the car has the latest update installed.
• Condition of the rear electric motor in PHEV versions (T6/T8 Recharge): In plug-in hybrid versions, focus on the smoothness of the transition between electric and combustion modes. During acceleration and recuperation, listen carefully to the rear axle. Whistling, humming, or metallic sounds can indicate wear of the ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) module, which is a relatively well-known and very expensive fault. Also check the trip computer for a realistic estimate of the battery range.
• Air suspension functionality: If a specific XC60 is equipped with optional air suspension, try manually changing the ride height via the drive mode selector or buttons in the trunk. The car must rise and fall smoothly, quietly, and without warning messages on the display. Loud hissing or a long time required to change height reveals a worn compressor or leaking air bellows.
• Aisin automatic transmission behavior: The traditional eight-speed automatic should be tuned primarily for comfort. Test shifting under load and focus on changing the selector from P (Park) to D (Drive) or R (Reverse). The transmission should respond softly without hard jolts. Jerking can mean a need for a transmission software update or an approaching expensive service intervention.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, aktualne.cz, autoservis.cz, autotechnik.cz, autorskola.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.