AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 13, 2026 —

• Alfa Romeo upholds its enduring legacy of all-wheel-drive performance, spanning from the 1951 Alfa Romeo 1900M “Matta” to the contemporary Giulia, Stelvio, and Tonale models.
• The Q4 all-wheel-drive system is featured across the complete 2026 Alfa Romeo range: it is standard on the Stelvio and Tonale SUVs and offered as an option for the Giulia sedan.
• Q4 AWD models made up 26% of Alfa Romeo’s worldwide sales in 2025, underscoring the technology’s strategic significance for the brand.

Engineered to provide optimal traction and assured performance in any situation, the Alfa Romeo Q4 all-wheel-drive system maintains the brand’s signature sharp and sporty driving dynamics. Currently, Q4 AWD is an option available for every model in the Alfa Romeo portfolio.

The brand’s all-wheel-drive heritage is deeply rooted, originating with early 4×4 prototypes in the 1920s and its first production use in the 1951 1900M “Matta,” an off-road vehicle that laid the groundwork for subsequent AWD innovation. The contemporary chapter started in 1984 with the Alfa 33 4×4, which advanced the technology by incorporating electromagnetic coupling.

A significant milestone was reached in 1991 with the Protéo concept and the launch of the 33 Permanent 4, which introduced a permanent AWD system using viscous coupling and spurred the creation of the initial Q4-branded vehicles like the 33, 155, and 164. These models were not just engineering achievements but also proved dominant in touring-car competitions; the 155 Q4 race cars won the 1992 Italian Superturismo Championship and the 1993 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM). Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Q4 AWD was integrated into more models, from the sturdy 156 Crosswagon to the 159, Brera, and Spider, firmly establishing Q4 as a fundamental element of Alfa Romeo’s performance, adaptability, and capability in all conditions.

For the 2026 model year, Alfa Romeo’s Q4 system carries on this legacy while incorporating technological advancements. In the United States, the Tonale is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a standard mechanical Q4 all-wheel-drive system. This configuration employs a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) to dynamically control torque split between the front and rear axles, capable of sending all available torque to the rear wheels if necessary, ensuring robust performance in any weather and assertive acceleration.

The Giulia and Stelvio, which feature a 280-horsepower, 306-lb.-ft. torque, 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic, utilize a rear-wheel-biased Q4 AWD system. This system, standard on the Stelvio and optional on the Giulia, uses a lightweight Active Transfer Case to engage the front axle as needed. It maintains a rear-drive character for daily use while enhancing stability in adverse weather and during dynamic starts. By continuously analyzing wheel speed, steering angle, and throttle position, the system ensures rapid and smooth torque distribution, preserving the agile, performance-oriented handling synonymous with Alfa Romeo.

Q4 AWD models constituted over 25% of Alfa Romeo’s global sales in 2025. For countless drivers, whether navigating winter roads, exploring mountain passes, or managing the daily drive, Q4 AWD provides the adaptability, assurance, and distinctive driving character that are hallmarks of the Alfa Romeo experience.

Alfa Romeo
Founded in 1910 in Milan, Italy, Alfa Romeo has a history of creating some of the most aesthetically pleasing and performance-oriented automobiles. This legacy continues as the brand maintains its distinctive and forward-thinking philosophy. The Alfa Romeo Tonale, its inaugural compact SUV, represents the evolution of the iconic marque, ushering in a new standard of luxury and connectivity with a standard turbocharged engine, Q4 all-wheel drive, Uconnect 5, and sophisticated driver-assistance features. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio establishes a new reference point for performance, design, and technology among SUVs. The acclaimed Alfa Romeo Giulia brings race-bred performance, cutting-edge technology, and a thrilling drive to the premium midsize sedan category. The meticulously hand-assembled Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, drawing inspiration from the famous 1967 Tipo 33 Stradale, merges custom Italian artistry with 630-horsepower capability in a limited production of only 33 cars globally. Alfa Romeo is one of the brands within the portfolio of Stellantis, a premier worldwide automaker and mobility solutions provider. To learn more about Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), visit www.stellantis.com.

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Alfa Romeo newsroom: https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsroom.do?id=292&mid=446
Consumer website: www.alfaromeousa.com and www.alfaromeo.com
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SOURCE Stellantis