Alfa Romeo Stelvio

How it looks on the street: We like our cars to feel like a splurge and the sinewy styling of Stelvio added a spark to our wintery schlep. Sometimes in cold weather climates, practicality reigns over style. The chic contours of the Stelvio deliver on both fronts – a bit more oomph on the average SUV styling and way more rewarding to bop around in than many in its competitive class. Stelvio comes in a primary trim, a limited-production Tributo Italiano Special Edition and a gold trim for 2025. It dropped the Quadrofolio from the lineup.

How it feels on the inside: On the interior, the seats and Italian design cues and elaborating stitching posh. The infotainment screen lacks some the responsive functionality of big-name competitors and the switches and details don’t feel as luxe as the rest of the ride. Overall tech execution lags a few years behind. But this is all balanced out by the way the driver and passengers feel in the cabin space, which presents as a wonderful element of Euro cool.

How it drives: The best part about the Stelvio is that it’s a pure pleasure to drive. The 2.0 liter turbo engine has real spunk.

Space for people and things: Clever cubbies enhance the interior. We had one adult and one child in the backseat, which were not overly spacious, but not cramped. For cargo we easily stashed multiple carry-on suitcases and bulky winter gear.

What to compare it to: Porsche Macan, Genesis GV70, Mercedes-Benz GLC.

How much does it cost: The model we tested, the special edition Stelivio Tributo Italiano AWD, was priced at $58,690, cast in Milano white, and a spicy red interior. The base price is $48,604.