Subtraction by addition

The Stelvio, Alfa Romeo’s first SUV, was launched only with all-wheel drive. No matter what trim, the powertrain drove all four wheels regardless of which trim was chosen. The Stelvio SUV is entering its second model year. However, one thing is certain: the Italian company will make a far-reaching change. Car reports that Alfa will offer the Stelvio in rear-wheel drive.

Rear-wheel drive not only helps the SUV to save weight, but also lowers the price. The Stelvio’s curb weight is reduced by 100 pounds by using the rear wheels. This also reduces the price by $2,000 This sounds like a win-win situation. The Stelvio should have a Q2 badge to denote its rear-wheel drive attributes, while the Q4 badge will remain on all-wheel-drive models.

However, a decrease in weight does not mean an increase of power. Stelvio’s turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will continue to be unchanged in the 2019 model year. It will still produce 280 horsepower and 306 pounds-feet torque. It also has an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The RWD Stelvio offers the option of a $1800 Sport Package that includes aluminum pedals and colored brake calipers. It also comes with 19-inch wheels and a few other goodies. You can also choose from an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, a Cold Weather Package, or driver-assist technologies.

You will need to swap the RWD feature for AWD if you want a luxurious and well-equipped Stelvio. Customers will have to accept AWD when they upgrade to Ti models.

The lineup has seen a welcome expansion with the addition of the RWD Alfa Romeo Stelvio. RWD driving dynamics and a lower entry point are both attractive. We would love to see RWD spread across the entire Stelvio range – we’re thinking Quadrifoglio. But that’s unlikely. For now.