While looks aren’t everything, the compact Stelvio is a thing of beauty. Staring at it from any angle, you’ll find perfect proportions and distinctive styling details that make it clear this is not your typical sport-utility vehicle.

And the key word here is “sport.” While virtually all other SUVs make at least some pretense of being rugged, the all-wheel-drive Stelvio is designed primarily for on-pavement performance. From its superbly tuned suspension to its ultra-precise steering, it’s not a stretch to say the experience is like whipping along in a two-seat Italian sports car that just happens to have room for three friends and their luggage.

Nevertheless, the Stelvio is not without flaws, including a relatively small, narrow cargo hold. That said, those looking for an SUV that’s fun to drive will find this exotic entry endearing enough to overlook its shortcomings. 

Strengths

• Perhaps the best-handling SUV on the market
• Distinctive looks that will turn heads at every stoplight

Weaknesses

• Smallish cargo area limits usefulness.
• Some SUV fans may wish for a taller driver’s seat.  

Bottom Line

How do you say “I want one” in Italian?

Pricing

Base Price: $40,295

As Tested: $94,190

Safety

NHTSA: Not yet tested 

MPG (city/highway)

22/29 (2.0L I4/automatic)