COMBUSTION engine offerings versus EV?
The above concern was informed by the 2025 launched Alfa Romeo- Junior that also comes in 207 kW single-motor electric powertrain and front-wheel drive.
Its all dependent on your taste- but EVs are a real deal in globally.
Had an opportunity to test drive this more driver-focused electric car it, and it does tick the boxes.
It does produce performance, personality, and everyday usability-thanks to its agility and intimidating design that left on-lookers in awe and ladies demanding a drive.
What the Alfa Romeo Junior EV does prove though, is one that prioritises steering feel, cornering confidence, and driver involvement-but a hard plastic interior remains questionable, after-all this is an Italian made.
Reviving the equally iconic Junior name after 48 years, especially as an EV was a decision Stellantis had to take- make it or break it… since Alfa Romeo’s now abandoned plans to go fully electric by 2030, the Junior becomes its first EV, though a hybrid might be possible.
The sportiest Junior model is said to represent a new direction for the brand, both mechanically and from a buyer perspective.
Launched in 2025 in two variants- the Elettrica and the Elettrica Veloce, both motivated by a front-mounted 54-kWh battery pack. The claimed range for the Elettrica is 410 km.
I had to postpone my long drive because the battery quickly depletes, meaning had to be steadier on acceleration an approach.
Elettrica motor produces 118kW/260Nm, while in the Veloce, outputs rise to 207kW/345Nm, we were told at the launch held in Joburg.
Its’ 4 170 mm long.
During my test, I did 0-100 km/h in 10-seconds and reach a top speed of 152 km/h.
During the recharge of up to 100 kW, it required a waiting time of 35 minutes from 45-80% at the charging point at a garage in Rosebank, since Sandton City Mall no longer provide such facility.
From the design, interior quality, technology, ride comfort, handling, and performance, as well as real-world electric range, charging practicality, safety systems, it does tick the boxes.
The Elettrica comes in iconic tele-dial alloy wheels wrapped in 18-inch wheels, as well as a diagonal Alfa Romeo script on the grille.
Standard specification is a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a six-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charger, ambient lighting, a 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Matrix LED headlights.
Included on the safety and driver assistance front are rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, tyre pressure monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Attention Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking and Traffic Sign Recogniton and a panoramic sun-roof.
Junior, although not desirable for taller folks- holds its own, on curves and hairpin corners as experienced when driving along Winnie Mandela Drv, and the EV torque steering handles well.
Junior is available in five colour- White Sempione, Grey Aresa, Black Tortona, Red Brera and Blue Navigli.
Included in both models’ price tags is a five-year/100 000 km warranty, a five-year/100 000 km service plan and an eight-year/150 000 km battery warranty.
- Junior Elettrica – R799 900
- Junior Elettrica Veloce – R999 900
Verdict
Performance -1-10 (6)
Electric 1-10 (5)
Top image SLM ( The first Alfa Romeo Junior EV- ticks all boxes.)
