2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia AWD TI Q4

First Time Driver in an Alfa Romeo

2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia TI AWD Q4

By: Cathy Droz – HER Certified

My Fifteen-year old granddaughter was shocked when I asked if she would like to take a spin in the neighborhood… not just any spin but in my 2020 Alfa Romeo? I would imagine grandma’s do this all the time in Italy, but this redhead was thrilled, anxious and a tad intimidated by a car she has always admired and felt had her name all over it.

Jayden has been a part of my test-driving cars since she was three, including photos in magazines, newspapers and even interviewed on the radio. She has been in front of the cars, standing behind, on the side and in the passenger seat. In fact, we had a column called Grandma’s Hot Wheels for three years. Well she finally hit the age where she can practice driving one of these vehicles, behind the wheel, not just sitting all cute posing for the camera.

First, I had to move the seat back as her legs are practically longer than my whole body and next, I needed to explain where all the bells and whistles were and how they differed from their family suburban. Like most teens she wanted to check out Apple CarPlay, find the cupholders and where her devices could be plugged in. She was in awe of the almost 9-inch Touchscreen Display and leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

I drove first showing her all the technology, how it accelerated with just a soft touch not gunning it or punching it. Once she got behind the wheel she adjusted her mirrors, made sure we all had seatbelts on, adjusted the steering column and then I had her place her hands on the steering wheel at 9 and 3. Several years ago the placement ( like a clock) had changed from 10 and 2 to 9 and 3 via NHTSA. It was proven to be a better position in avoiding a collision.

With very little pressure on the gas pedal we moved slowly down the block until I suggested she pick up speed and turn the corner to see how beautifully the Giulia handled and she felt more comfortable and secure. It didn’t take long for her to gain her confidence.

My past experiences with testing Alfa Romeo cars has given me the same feelings that I suppose Jayden had when I handed her the keys (butterflies in your stomach). There is something about Alfa Romeo cars that makes you feel you are royalty, makes you want to speak Italian, plan a trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, forget about Covid-19 or at least get a slice of Pizza.

For more about the Alfa Romeo Models go to www.alfaromeousa.com and for more reviews go to www.hercertified.com my YouTube Channel HER Certified.

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