2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs. 2025 Volvo XC60: A Luxurious Showdown in Ottawa
When it comes to premium SUVs, the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and 2025 Volvo XC60 both bring luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology to the table. If you’re in Ottawa, ON, choosing between these two models might feel like a tough decision. This comparison breaks down their key features to help you decide which one suits your lifestyle, budget, and driving preferences.
The 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a true expression of Italian design. With its sleek curves, signature V-shaped grille, and sporty stance, it commands attention. Unique trims, such as the limited-edition Tributo Italiano, elevate its already bold appearance with premium touches like 21-inch dark aluminum wheels and red brake calipers.
The 2025 Volvo XC60 takes a different approach. It embodies Swedish minimalism with clean lines and a timeless aesthetic. While the design is understated, it feels luxurious, especially in higher trims like the Ultimate or Black Edition. Each vehicle offers a distinct style, but the Stelvio leans sportier, while the XC60 focuses on elegance.
Under the hood, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 280 horsepower and a thrilling 0-100 km/h time of just 5.4 seconds. Its sport suspension and near-perfect weight distribution make it a dream to handle on Ottawa’s winding roads. Fuel efficiency is respectable, with a combined rating of 9.6 L/100 km.
The Volvo XC60, equipped with a mild hybrid B5 powertrain, produces 247 horsepower. While it’s not as fast as the Stelvio, its towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms is a big advantage for those with trailers or boats. The XC60 also shines in fuel economy, offering a combined 9.0 L/100 km, making it slightly more efficient for long drives through Ottawa and beyond.
The Stelvio’s interior is designed with the driver in mind. Premium leather seating comes standard, alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and an intuitive infotainment system. Optional packages, like the Premium Interior and Sound, add features such as a Harman/Kardon sound system and power-adjustable sport seats.
In contrast, the XC60 offers a cabin steeped in Swedish simplicity. Its large touchscreen dominates the dashboard, funnelling most functions into one interface. While elegant, the controls can feel less intuitive compared to the Stelvio’s user-friendly layout. Features like four-zone climate control and a Harman/Kardon sound system are reserved for higher trims, adding to the XC60’s price.
Both SUVs excel in safety, but the XC60 edges out with its Top Safety Pick award from IIHS. Standard safety systems include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and front collision mitigation.
The Stelvio also comes well-equipped, with blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and driver attention alerts. The optional Active Assist Plus package enhances these features for added peace of mind. While crash-test data for the Stelvio is limited, Alfa Romeo’s commitment to safety is evident in its advanced systems.
For Ottawa’s mix of urban streets and nearby scenic routes, both the Stelvio and XC60 offer something special. The Stelvio’s sporty drive makes it perfect for spirited trips along the Gatineau Hills, while the XC60’s smooth ride and towing capability suit weekend escapes to nearby lakes or camping spots. Both vehicles are well-equipped for harsh winters, offering all-wheel drive to tackle icy roads with confidence.
Choosing between the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and 2025 Volvo XC60 depends on your priorities. If heart-racing performance, bold design, and driver-focused innovation excite you, the Stelvio is calling your name. For those who value Scandinavian elegance, towing capacity, and top-tier safety ratings, the XC60 delivers.