The Junior marks Alfa Romeo’s first step into the world of electric cars, and it’s arriving in one of the most competitive spaces, the compact SUV segment. Rivals include the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia EV3, VW ID.3 and Jeep Avenger, but the Junior stands apart with unmistakably Alfa styling and a promise of driving excitement. The question is: does it deliver more than just good looks?

Performance

If driving fun is what you want, the Junior Veloce doesn’t disappoint. With 278hp, it can sprint from 0–100km/h in just 5.9 seconds, and it feels a world apart from the standard versions. Its lowered suspension, mechanical differential, and upgraded bump stops give it a planted, composed feel, even over rougher surfaces. The result is sporty without being uncomfortable.

One detail enthusiasts will appreciate is how the driving modes handle regenerative braking. In Dynamic mode, regen is switched off completely, letting you rely solely on the brake pedal for a more natural, consistent response. For everyday use, lighter regen modes are available, while the heavier “B” setting works well around town, even if it doesn’t quite feel like full one-pedal driving.

Range and Charging

The Junior is built on Stellantis’s updated e-CMP platform, shared with the Jeep Avenger. It houses a 51kWh usable (54kWh gross) NMC battery, which delivers a WLTP range of up to 410km in the Elettrica and Speciale trims. The Veloce sacrifices a little distance for performance, coming in at 322km.

Charging tops out at 100kW DC, allowing a 10–80% boost in about 35–40 minutes. On a 7kW home wallbox, a full charge takes around nine hours, in line with most of its direct rivals. A heat pump comes standard, which helps squeeze out extra efficiency in colder weather.

Design and Interior

Step inside the Junior and you’re reminded that it’s a compact SUV. Space is adequate rather than class-leading, though the 400-litre boot is generous for the segment and comes with a useful adjustable floor. There’s even a small frunk for your charging cable, provided you’re tidy with your coiling.

Cabin quality is solid, with part-Alcantara upholstery (highlighted by red stitching) adding a sporty edge. The infotainment system features a 14.5-inch touchscreen that’s easy to navigate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included. It’s not perfect, the graphics look dated in places, but over-the-air updates and improved route planning with charging stops help keep it competitive.

Cost Considerations

Pricing for the Junior starts at €41,083 for the Elettrica, which comes well-equipped with LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, 18-inch alloys, and a heat pump as standard. Step up to the €45,304 Speciale and you’ll find upgrades such as an electric driver’s seat with massage function, a powered bootlid, and leather accents. Equipment levels are strong across the range, meaning even the entry model feels well specced compared with rivals. Step up to the powerful Veloce trim and prices will start from €54,995.

Verdict

Alfa Romeo has always built cars with a strong emotional pull, and the Junior continues that tradition. It may not offer the longest range in the class, and pricing puts it up against some very tough competition, but it balances style, driving enjoyment, and practicality in a way that makes it stand out.

It’s the kind of car you buy with your heart as much as your head, fun to drive, handsome to look at, and packed with kit that makes everyday life easier. For those who want something different from the usual crowd of compact EVs, the Junior makes a compelling case.