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Alfa Romeo launches an exclusive Intensa run for Australia
Alfa Romeo has rolled out a new range-wide special series — Intensa — but the twist is that it's arriving first and only in Australia. The limited-run collection gives local buyers a fresh incentive to consider the Tonale, Giulia or Stelvio with unique styling, upgraded materials and model-specific dynamics.
Why Australia?
The move is a clear nod from Stellantis to a market where Alfa still enjoys passionate followings. With brand momentum uneven around the world — modest sales in North America versus stronger pockets in Europe — a tightly scripted special edition helps generate showroom buzz and collectability. Only 50 Intensa cars will be offered nationwide: 30 Giulia sedans plus just 10 Tonale crossovers and 10 Stelvio SUVs.
Design and specification highlights
The Intensa series tags each model with distinctive exterior and interior upgrades that signal exclusivity without radically changing the cars' character. Exterior touches include:
- Light-gold two-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels (19-inch on Giulia; 20-inch on Tonale and Stelvio)
- Gold trim accents and subtle gold highlights on brake calipers
- Italian-flag mirror badges and a standard sunroof
Color options are tailored by model: Tonale buyers can choose Alfa Black, Alfa Red or Montreal Green; Giulia and Stelvio customers get Volcano Black, Etna Red and Montreal Green. Inside, Intensa models wear tan-accented badging — tan Alfa logos on headrests, dual-tone steering wheels with tan stitching and new Intensa branding.
New materials and cabin features
Alfa Romeo introduces premium Alcantara seats for the lineup with Anthracite Grey backs and tan stitching, a first for these models in Australia. The Tonale debuts an Australian-market rotary shifter, while Giulia and Stelvio receive a distinct leather seat package. These interior updates elevate the premium feel and differentiate the Intensa from standard trims.
Performance and chassis: tweaks by model
Powertrain choices remain familiar but paired with model-specific suspension tuning:
- Tonale: 1.5-liter MHEV petrol (157 hp) with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) and front-wheel drive. It also receives a Dual-Stage Valve suspension for improved comfort and control.
- Giulia & Stelvio: 2.0-liter turbo petrol (276 hp) with an eight-speed automatic; Giulia is rear-wheel drive while Stelvio adds all-wheel drive. Both sport the Synaptic Dynamic Control (SDC) system to sharpen handling and driver-adapted responses.
These mechanical choices underline the Intensa’s intent: retain everyday usability while offering a slightly more focused driving experience.
Pricing and availability
Alfa lists the Intensa Special Series prices (MSRP) in Australia as follows:
- Tonale Intensa: AUD 69,990
- Giulia Intensa: AUD 84,990
- Stelvio Intensa: AUD 94,490
MSRP includes GST and any applicable Luxury Car Tax (LCT), but excludes on-road costs and dealer delivery. Given the small allocation — particularly the ten-unit runs for Tonale and Stelvio — buyers will need to move quickly to secure one of these numbered examples.
What this means for buyers and collectors
For enthusiasts, the Intensa series offers a compact way to own a recognizably different Alfa without waiting for a full model refresh. Collectors will value the low numbers and unique finishes; everyday drivers get a premium cabin and distinct styling cues. Whether this Australia-only experiment returns to other markets will depend on demand and how well the special series lifts showroom interest.
Quote highlight: "An extremely limited release with just 50 units across Australia — it’s designed to excite the local market and reward Alfa loyalists," an Alfa representative said.
If you’re watching Alfa Romeo’s global strategy, the Intensa Special Series is a smart, targeted play: a small run that amplifies desirability and reminds buyers the brand still knows how to marry style with performance.
Source: autoevolution
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