In terms of sales volume, the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio models represent just a few hundred units. These are true supercars, powered by the exceptional 2.9-liter V6 engine producing 510 horsepower, derived from Ferrari technology.
However, this powertrain, along with other turbocharged gasoline options, will soon no longer be available.
Why Is Alfa Romeo Phasing Out Gasoline Engines?
The decision aligns with the progressive elimination of higher-emission engines, as the brand prepares for the introduction of the next-generation Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The upcoming SUV will be built on the STLA Large platform and will continue to be manufactured in Cassino. By 2026, the new Giulia will follow suit.
For the Stelvio, this phase-out represents a short-term transition, whereas for the Giulia, it will extend over a longer period. The sedan will remain available with diesel engines for another year.
Here’s a timeline of key dates:
- March 31, 2025: Orders for the Giulia Quadrifoglio will close.
- April 30, 2025: Orders for the Stelvio Quadrifoglio will end.
- May 31, 2025: Dealerships will stop taking orders for Giulia and Stelvio models equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged gasoline engine producing 280 horsepower. Remaining stock will still be available for purchase.
While these engines offer top-tier performance, they also produce the highest CO2 emissions. Compliance with the 2025 emissions target of 93.6 g/km—recently extended to 2027 through an agreement between the EU and automakers—has become a pressing concern. Manufacturers now have three years to adapt to the new regulations and avoid penalties.
Why is gasoline being cut while diesel remains? CO2 emissions are directly linked to fuel consumption, which is typically higher for gasoline engines. Diesel engines, on the other hand, have lower CO2 emissions but face stricter controls due to nitrogen oxides (NOx), which have health impacts. However, modern Euro 6 diesel engines incorporate advanced emission treatment systems (SCR, AdBlue injection, and DPF filters) that significantly reduce NOx emissions to well below legal limits. This explains Alfa Romeo’s decision to maintain diesel options while discontinuing non-hybrid gasoline models.
Will There Be High-Performance Engines in the Future?
The outlook for high-performance models is becoming increasingly clear. Automakers must reduce the average CO2 emissions of their fleets, meaning future performance models will likely feature high-performance hybrid gasoline engines. Alternatively, if brands wish to preserve traditional high-performance engines like naturally aspirated V6 and V8 units, they will need to balance their lineup with a significant number of electric and hybrid vehicle sales.
Alfa Romeo’s decision to cut gasoline engines aligns with the strategic shifts many automakers have been making in response to stricter emissions regulations. Although the emission targets remain unchanged, the three-year flexibility granted for compliance has led to the selective discontinuation of certain powertrains.
With the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio set to debut in the coming months featuring hybrid gasoline and electric powertrains, the brand is making a decisive shift toward lowering its average CO2 emissions. The same approach will be followed with the 2026 Giulia, marking a new era for Alfa Romeo’s performance vehicles.
