There is a new Alfa Giulietta on the market. It’s the Giulietta TCT. This new Alfa combines the existing Giulietta with the twin-clutch TCT transmission that was previously only offered on the Mito. The new model comes in both petrol and diesel, and we recommend the 1.4 litre turbocharged “Multiair” engine with 168bhp – a very respectable amount in such a small car.
New Gearbox
The aforementioned TCT system is currently exclusive to Alfa, although the Fiat group are looking to use it throughout in the future, however, Alfa are proud to be developing the technology.
The TCT transmission is a dry clutch system, which is more economical than oil powered “wet clutch” boxes. It also has electro-hydraulic operation, and one clutch engaging odd-numbered gears, and one clutch engaging even-numbered gears.
The system is said to weigh around 81kg and will also improve fuel economy and improve acceleration times. CO2 emissions are also decreased as they are now down from 135g/km to 121g/km when compared to the manual gearbox.
Any Criticisms?
Slight criticisms of the transmission are that there are noticeable pauses between selecting a new gear and receiving a new gear, however, by all accounts the Giulietta’s new gearbox, on the whole, drives very well indeed, and what we must remember is that the TCT transmission system is still being developed and it will inevitably get better and better as it moves from one car to the next.
The new Giulietta will set prospective owners back £21,855 which is a bit of a bargain when you consider that the new, five door, DSG equipped VW Golf GT is on sale for £23,255. The Giulietta is also more economical too. The new cars are however likely to be similar when requesting car insurance quotes.
The Giulietta, I have to say, is a fantastic looking car, but then again most Alfa Romeo’s are. It is beautifully built, and looks the part. It is therefore sure to sell well!
Alfa are now looking to roll out their TCT transmissions across future Alfa models, as they claim they can build 150,000 transmissions a year.
