A hybrid with character: Alfa Romeo brings a breath of fresh air to the compact class with the Junior Ibrida Q4.
The latest offshoot of the Junior series relies on an electrified four-wheel drive without a mechanical connection between the front and rear axles.
Alfa Romeo Junior Hybrid Q4
It combines a 1,2-liter turbo gasoline engine with two electric motors and thus makes it to a System performance of 145 PS – more than enough for everyday use and the occasional sporty excursion. The concept is interesting: the front electric motor is located directly in the 6-speed dual clutch transmission and works together with the combustion engine.
Drive and technology
The rear electric motor, on the other hand, operates completely independently – without a cardan shaft, but with its own Reduction gearThis saves weight and components without sacrificing traction. The result is a all wheel drive, which is automatically switched on as needed – a real plus point, especially in slippery road conditions or snow.
And even if the battery is empty, the gasoline engine ensures that electricity is generated for the rear axle. Speaking of batteries: The 48-volt hybrid system also allows short distances in pure electric mode at low speedAccording to Alfa Romeo, CO₂ emissions, depending on driving style, are less than 120 g / km, which is quite efficient for an all-wheel drive model.
Driving modes for every purpose
About the Alfa DNA System Four driving modes are available. In “Q4” the all-wheel drive runs up to 30 km/h permanently, until 90 km/h It is activated when needed – ideal for slippery roads. “DYNAMIC” ensures sporty driving with a boost function up to 40 km/h.
Those who simply want to travel in a relaxed manner can choose "NATURAL" – this also automatically switches to all-wheel drive between 0 and 90 km/h when necessary. And for those on a tight budget, there is also the "ADVANCED EFFICIENCY" mode, which adjusts the engine response and the accelerator pedal to Efficiency trims.
Chassis and comfort
The rear axle of the Junior Ibrida Q4 is equipped with a Multilink independent suspension equipped exclusively for this variant. This not only ensures better driving comfort, but also for more stability and traction in difficult conditions.
The adjustment of springs, dampers and stabilizers is adapted to this configuration. In everyday driving, this translates into smoother handling, less pitching, and more control on poor roads. This is a real plus, especially for a compact vehicle with all-wheel drive.
Equipment: Lots of features, little to complain about
The Junior Ibrida Q4 is well equipped right from the factory. Full LED matrix headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels in Petali design, electrically adjustable driver's seat with massage function – all series. In inner space continues with artificial leather, complemented by a Leather steering wheel with shift paddles, aluminum pedals and ambient lighting in eight colors.
The 10,25 inch display in the middle controls navigation, infotainment and vehicle settings via the Alfa Connect NAV system. Six speakers, a 180-degree rear view camera, Keyless Entry and electrically opening tailgate with gesture control round off the whole thing. And: The junior can drive semi-autonomously at Level 2 – i.e. assistance systems that are not always a given even in higher classes.
Price and availability
The new Junior Ibrida Q4 can be ordered now, first test drives are from end of May at Alfa Romeo dealers. Prices start at about 37.000 Euro – for a compact hybrid model with all-wheel drive and this equipment, that's a fair price. Overall, Alfa Romeo shows with the Junior Ibrida Q4 that Hybrid doesn't have to be boring.
Technically sophisticated, dynamically solid and with a clear focus on everyday usability – the Junior could actually be an exciting new addition to this class. All further information can be found in the video. Image and video credits/source: Stellantis | This content was created using AI and reviewed by an editor.
