There are petrol and diesel engine options and seven trim
levels and Giulia prices start at £33,190 for the entry-level Super version, the one featured here. This model has a 197 hp 2.0 litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a slick 8-speed automatic gearbox and it is a formidable combination. Top speed is 146 mph, the 0-60 mph time just 6.6 seconds. Average fuel economy is 41.5 mpg and emissions 157 g/km. The cabin is a showcase of fine Italian
design, visually more impressive than in rival models such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, underlining the character and cachet of this legendary Italian sporting marque. When it comes to driving, the rear-wheel-drive Giulia is a delight, offering immediate power delivery and fluent gear changes from the auto transmission. For those who wish to
MAZDA 6 Tourer
THE MARKET FOR ELEGANT LUXURY ESTATE CARS USED TO BE DOMINATED BY PRESTIGE GERMAN MANUFACTURERS BUT, IN RECENT YEARS, OTHER MARQUES HAVE BECOME ESTABLISHED IN THE SECTOR, WITH THE LATEST MAZDA6 TOURER A FINE EXAMPLE. Its beautifully-sculpted lines provide a classy visual
presence and the cabin, with leather upholstery, gloss black inserts and chrome detailing creates the feeling you are driving something special. There is a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines and all models are well-equipped, with prices starting at £24,095. The popular engine choice is the 148 hp 2.2 diesel unit which was in the model I recently tested, along with the optional 7-speed automatic gearbox. In mid-range SE-L Lux Nav+ form it costs £28,093. Even the entry-level Mazda6 Tourer is generously-kitted with dual-zone climate control, cruise control, sat-nav, front and rear parking sensors, touch-screen infotainment centre, digital radio and Bluetooth all standard. My Lux test model added extra features including leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats and a reversing camera. Underway, the engine proves to be smooth quiet and
refined, with a 0-60 mph time of 10.6 seconds, top speed 127 mph and average fuel economy very good at 55.5 mpg. Emissions are 133 g/km. The steering has a light responsive feel for effortless driv- ing though I found the suspension rather over-firm, picking up the bumps on rougher surfaces. The Tourer is spacious front and rear and there are plenty
of stowage areas for oddments. The boot is large at 522 litres, expandable to a massive 1,689 litres by folding the rear seats. And the load floor is flat, another plus-point. The two-tone cabin design is very pleasing and with large glass areas and slim pillars, helps give the cabin a light airy ambiance. Notable rivals in the sector include estate versions of the
Ford Mondeo and Skoda Superb but the Mazda6 Tourer in my view outshines them for sheer presence. Mazda says the Tourer makes ‘a stylish statement’. I think the company is being modest - it makes a VERY stylish statement!
All quoted prices were correct at time of going to press
HANDLING ALWAYS FEELS ASSURED AND THE SUSPENSION IS UNDERSTANDABLY FIRM TO HELP PROVIDE GRIP AND COMPOSURE
be more engaged with the driving, there are also manual paddle-shifters and also three driving modes which can vary steering and throttle responses. Handling always feels assured and while the suspension is understandably firm to help provide grip and composure, it is still compliant enough for good all-round ride comfort. Standard equipment on this entry model is very good and includes cruise control, dual-zone climate control, touch screen infotainment system, Bluetooth, sat-nav and connectivity features. Safety kit includes emergency auto braking,
pedestrian detection and lane departure warning. The Alfa Giulia has a distinctive niche position within its
class, with its stand-out styling and Alfa sporting heritage giving it compelling appeal.
Autoservices • MOT Testing
• Servicing & Repairs • All Diagnostics • 4 x 4 Specialist • Air Conditioning
Unit 12, Nelson Road Inds. Estate, Dartmouth TQ6 9LA
Tel: 01803 833181 www.
frlautoservices.co.uk
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