Alfa Romeo Giulietta: Gas vs. Diesel

It's no secret that Chrysler will be borrowing heavily from Fiat to fill out its Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep brands in the coming years. And it's been widely reported that Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is especially concerned with the small car offerings for U.S. consumption. As a result, one of the first vehicles to get adapted for the U.S. marketplace will be the current-gen Alfa Romeo Giulietta, which will likely spawn several versions as soon as next year, starting with a Dodge compact car.

Timing issues aside, we thought it would be a good idea to get more familiar with this platform if it's going to play such a pivotal role in the continued relationship (and success) of Chrysler and Fiat. Naturally (well, actually, we were just lucky) we decided to drive a pair of Giuliettas -- one Multi-Air gas turbo and one diesel turbo -- in rural Ireland. This would allow us to grade the vehicle itself, as well as get familiar with the various Italian power strategy differences. Spoiler alert: If this is what Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep have to look forward to, we're all likely to benefit.

Factory numbers for the heavier 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel are 168 hp at 4000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 1750 rpm. Top speed is also computer limited to 135 mph. As you might expect, there is more heft to the diesel engine, and as a consequence, vehicle weight is about 70 pounds heavier. Also not surprising, 0-60 mph times are a little larger as well, with Alfa's estimate coming in 8 seconds flat to 62 mph.

In Dynamic mode, the steering gets tighter and throttle response is sharper. In addition, braking is more sensitive, the turbo spools quicker, and the electronic differential is more attentive. In Normal mode, all the same parameters become smoother and more gradual, biasing all computer controls to comfort and MPG efficiency. In All-weather mode, the system assumes there is possible ice or other traction issues, so braking, throttle response, gear selection, and the traction control sensors work together to limit as much slip or slide as possible. This single feature allows the driver to enjoy almost every aspect of the car to its fullest. It's almost like having three cars in one. It wouldn't surprise us to see this same DNA system in every Alfa Romeo (or Chrysler-made vehicle) sold in the U.S. Certainly, the next Jeep Compass will benefit from this type of powertrain intelligence.

Our proposed route allowed us to make a complete loop over the southern half of Ireland, starting in Dublin, cutting straight across the country above Galway. Then we'd swing south along the coast until we made our way to Cork then back to Dublin. This particular route has many exciting and wonderful places to stop, so if you're interested, give yourself at least a week (preferably two) to make the loop. We would also advise you bring, buy, or have a vehicle that offers a nav system. With all the ancient and hidden roads through the old towns and meandering countryside, you'll want to have some way of getting back on track after you explore a new or uncharted route.

Galway is a beautiful tourist town if you like to shop and walk along the ocean. There are plenty of comfortable places to stay, but don't be afraid to search outlying areas for more exciting and rustic accommodations. We stayed at an old castle about hour outside Galway, near the Connemara National Park (worth a visit because it looks like the surface of another planet -- www.connemaranationalpark.ie), called the Ballynahinch Castle. It was spectacular, with plenty of beautiful mountain trails all around the hillsides that lead to several streams and lakes to find.

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