We cruised the coast in the new Alfa Romeo Junior – and realised that going electric doesn’t mean giving up the fun.
If you’ve ever taken a weekend drive out of Umhlanga – coffee in hand, playlist on point – you’ll know that some cars just fit the moment. The new Alfa Romeo Junior is one of them.
We took it for a spin up the North Coast, cruising out of Umhlanga, stopping in Umdloti for a pastry and a peek at the waves before heading further north. Turns out, this compact electric hatchback is as stylish as it is smart, and surprisingly fun to drive.
FIRST THINGS FIRST: IT LOOKS GOOD
The Junior has that unmistakable Alfa Romeo confidence. Think sleek lines and sculpted curves. It’s compact (just over four metres long) but bold enough to turn heads, especially in its signature Italian red. Inside, the cabin feels driver-focused and a little sporty, with a digital dash, 10-inch touchscreen and all the tech you need to stay connected.
SO HOW DOES IT DRIVE?
In a word – lively. The all-electric motor delivers instant power (209 kW in the Veloce version), so it zips from 0 to 100km/h in under six seconds. But it’s not just about speed. The handling is tight and confident, perfect for weaving through traffic or gliding around those North Coast bends. It’s got that signature Alfa personality: smooth when you want it to be, playful when you’re in the mood.
MADE FOR OUR KIND OF LIFESTYLE
With a range of around 410 km, the Junior is ideal for everyday use and weekend getaways. Plug it in overnight and you’re good to go, and if you do need a quick top-up, fast charging will get you from 20 to 80 percent in under half an hour. Practical? Definitely. The 400-litre boot means there’s space for shopping, beach gear or a weekend bag, and it’s small enough to squeeze into tight Umhlanga parking spots without breaking a sweat.
INSIDE STORY
It’s all very Alfa – stylish but unfussy. You get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ambient lighting, and plenty of clever little storage touches. It feels modern, comfortable, and just a bit indulgent – exactly what you want when you’re stuck in traffic or heading up the coast for a Sunday lunch.
THE VERDICT
It’s safe to say the Alfa Romeo Junior has personality, attitude and proper Italian flair. It’s quick, compact and just a little cheeky.
For anyone looking to dip into the EV world without losing the joy of driving, this could be the one. After all, life’s too short for boring cars – especially when you have a beautiful coast to explore!
Quick facts
- POWER & PERFORMANCE
Choose between the standard 115 kW version or the punchy 209 kW Veloce. Expect quick acceleration: 0 to 100km/h in about 5.9 seconds. - BATTERY & RANGE
A 54 kWh battery gives up to 410 km (WLTP) of range. Fast charging gets you from 20 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes, or a full charge overnight at home. - DESIGN & DIMENSIONS:
Compact at just over 4.1 metres long, with a bold Alfa grille and sporty stance. Inside, you’ll find a digital cockpit, 10.25-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone connectivity. - PRACTICAL TOUCHES:
A 400-litre boot, clever storage, and comfortable seating make it a smart choice for everyday life. - PEACE OF MIND:
An 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty (guaranteeing 70 percent capacity). - STARTING PRICE
R 799 900 for the Alfa Romeo Junior EV Electrica and R 999 900 for the EV Electrica Veloce, with added luxuries available as follows:
Paint: R3500
Electric Sunroof: R20 000
Veloce Performance Pack:
R55 000
