{"id":41801,"date":"2025-12-10T13:48:21","date_gmt":"2025-12-10T11:48:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/ballito-umhlanga\/?p=41801"},"modified":"2026-01-29T09:59:32","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T07:59:32","slug":"charged-up","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/ballito-umhlanga\/blog\/2025\/12\/10\/charged-up\/","title":{"rendered":"Charged up"},"content":{"rendered":"

We cruised the coast in the new Alfa Romeo Junior \u2013 and realised that going electric doesn\u2019t mean giving up the fun.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019ve ever taken a weekend drive out of Umhlanga \u2013 coffee in hand, playlist on point \u2013 you\u2019ll know that some cars just fit the moment. The new Alfa Romeo Junior is one of them.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

FIRST THINGS FIRST: IT LOOKS GOOD<\/strong>
\nThe Junior has that unmistakable Alfa Romeo confidence. Think sleek lines and sculpted curves. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>SO HOW DOES IT DRIVE?<\/strong>
\nIn a word \u2013 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\u2019s not just about speed. The handling is tight and confident, perfect for weaving through traffic or gliding around those North Coast bends. It\u2019s got that signature Alfa personality: smooth when you want it to be, playful when you\u2019re in the mood.<\/p>\n

MADE FOR OUR KIND OF LIFESTYLE<\/strong>
\nWith a range of around 410 km, the Junior is ideal for everyday use and weekend getaways. Plug it in overnight and you\u2019re 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\u2019s space for shopping, beach gear or a weekend bag, and it\u2019s small enough to squeeze into tight Umhlanga parking spots without breaking a sweat.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>INSIDE STORY<\/strong>
\nIt\u2019s all very Alfa \u2013 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 \u2013 exactly what you want when you\u2019re stuck in traffic or heading up the coast for a Sunday lunch.<\/p>\n

THE VERDICT<\/strong>
\nIt\u2019s safe to say the Alfa Romeo Junior has personality, attitude and proper Italian flair. It\u2019s quick, compact and just a little cheeky.<\/p>\n

For anyone looking to dip into the EV world without losing the joy of driving, this could be the one. After all, life\u2019s too short for boring cars \u2013 especially when you have a beautiful coast to explore!<\/p>\n

Quick facts<\/strong><\/h4>\n