Alfa Romeo Driving Experience: A Three-Month Review
This article shares the driving experience of an Alfa Romeo after owning it for three months. It covers unexpected issues, advantages, disadvantages, and considerations for potential buyers, especially in Malaysia.
Comfort and Practicality
Seating and Space
The Alfa Romeo is comfortable for passengers, even on long journeys. The car's size provides ample space.
180-Degree Reclining Seats and Child Safety Seats
The front seats can recline 180 degrees. However, this feature might be impractical for families with young children using safety seats, as finding a compatible child safety seat that also reclines fully can be challenging and may not be very stable.
Pricing and Parking in Malaysia
Affordability in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a unique opportunity to experience luxury cars like the Alfa Romeo at a relatively lower price compared to countries like China or the UK. A used, two-to-three-year-old model in Malaysia can cost significantly less than a new or used equivalent elsewhere.
Parking Friendliness
Malaysia is car-centric, making parking generally easy. Parking lots are typically wider, accommodating larger cars like the Alfa Romeo.
Driving Performance
Initial Concerns and Actual Experience
Initially, there were concerns that the car's size and 2.5-liter engine would result in slow acceleration. However, the actual driving experience is acceptable, comparable to other vehicles previously driven.
Agility and Acceleration
While not as agile or fast as a Porsche, the Alfa Romeo's acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving. It may not be ideal for aggressive overtaking in the fast lane.
Driving Skills and Parking
The car's length requires some driving skill, especially when parking. The 360-degree camera, specially installed by the dealer, is invaluable for navigating parking spaces.
Upgrades and Modifications
On-board Entertainment
The older model's on-board entertainment system is outdated compared to the latest models. Upgrading the screen is possible for an additional cost.
Additional Features
The 360 camera, and the front bumper were chosen as addition to the original car.
Shock Absorber Considerations
Researching and consulting with the seller led to the conclusion that replacing the original shock absorber with a heavier, metal one is unnecessary and could potentially cause more harm than good. The original light material allows for necessary deformation and absorption.
Unexpected Shortcomings
Low Bottom Plate
The car's low bottom plate poses challenges with high curbs, potentially damaging the doors and front bumper.
Trunk Accessibility
The high trunk height can make it difficult to open in tight parking spaces, requiring adjustments to the car's position.
Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption is high compared to other SUVs, especially the previously owned Porsche Macan. However, subsidized gasoline prices in Malaysia mitigate this issue.
Worth the Purchase?
Alternative Options
Considering options like the Toyota Cross and Honda CR-V, which are newer, cheaper, and faster, the Alfa Romeo offers a unique luxury experience.
Experiential Value
The Alfa Romeo provides a luxurious and enjoyable experience, especially for passengers, which is difficult to replicate with other cars.
Street Presence
The Alfa Romeo is a common sight on Malaysian roads.
Latest Model vs. Older Model
Differences and Considerations
The latest model features design updates and a hybrid engine. However, the significant price difference makes the older model a cost-effective option. The new Model is longer, so it will be harder to park.
Body Length
The increased body length of the newer model (5 meters vs. 4.95 meters) can make parking more challenging.
Color Choice: Black vs. White
Practical Considerations
While initially favoring black, the choice shifted to white due to its practicality. Black cars tend to show dirt and rain marks more easily and absorb more heat in Malaysia's climate.
Resale Value
White cars are generally more popular, potentially making them easier to resell.
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