The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio super saloon has received positive reviews since its launch in 2016. It was a much-awaited performance car from the Italian brand that could compete with the best in its class. The car’s rear-driven handling, compactness on the road, and powerful Ferrari-derived V6 engine were widely recognized.

Alfa Romeo has taken a unique approach in the performance car market by making the car simpler to make it better. The Quadrifoglio version receives the same updates as the regular Giulia, including new headlights, a new radiator grille, new digital instruments, and an updated infotainment system. Additionally, the engine power has been increased to 514bhp, and the suspension and driveline have been recalibrated to give the car a ‘mini-GTA feel’ according to Alfa performance engineering lead Domenico Bagnasco.

The ‘100 Anniversario’ version of the car celebrates the centenary of Alfa’s green cloverleaf iconography and features gold-edged badging and detailing. Only 100 units will be produced for the global market, and all are already sold in the UK.

To address the previous issues with on-track performance and handling, Alfa has made significant changes to the car’s mechanical specifications. The electronically controlled ‘eDiff’ has been replaced with a more conventional mechanical limited-slip differential. Other changes include increased anti-roll bar stiffness on both axles and firmer calibration of the electronic dampers at their firmest setting. These changes improve the rear axle’s response and consistency in limit handling with the ESC switched off.

The Giulia still maintains its appealing low driving position, well-designed cockpit and controls, and a sense of agility on the road. Despite the ‘mini-GTA’ billing, the car doesn’t feel overly aggressive. The ride and damper calibration are comfortable in the ‘natural’ driving mode, the steering is light but direct, and the engine and gearbox are generally smooth in normal traffic.