Alfa Romeo has joined the ranks of those that offer an efficient automatic gearbox with the launch of its new TCT transmission. Also available on the Mito, the twin-clutch system in the Giulietta comes with both 170hp 1.4 petrol and 2.0 diesel engines. The petrol is the most efficient of its type in its class at 121g/km, while the diesel driven here comes in at 119g/km.
It’s a good auto gearbox, shifting quickly and smoothly at the right moments, and the emissions figure impresses. The bad news is that it costs £1400 more than its standard six-speed manual sibling, although it does sit one BIK band lower.
The TCT is both faster and more economical, by 2.7mpg, than the manual, but it loses out on efficiency and performance to the more expensive BMW 120d SE auto that, despite starting out almost £1500 more expensive, enjoys a cost per mile advantage thanks to an RV almost 10 percentage points to the good.
But the Giulietta has added to its arsenal by providing a good and efficient auto for a car that remains one of the prettiest and most striking in its class.
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