Segment:
Compact family hatchback / Premium compact car
Positioning:
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Type 940) was positioned as a stylish, sporty, and premium alternative to mainstream compact hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Audi A3, emphasizing driving dynamics and Italian design flair.
Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Ford Focus, Mazda 3, Honda Civic.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes 'La Bella Macchina' - the beautiful car, with distinctive Alfa Romeo styling cues like the 'Scudetto' grille.
Driving Dynamics:
Focus on sporty handling and driver engagement, often incorporating Alfa Romeo's proprietary 'Dynamic Driving Control' (DNA) system.
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, starting and charging systems, engine management.
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox operation, clutch (if applicable), automatic transmission modes and operation, differential.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, steering, braking system (including ABS, EBD), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, instruments and controls, wipers and washers, climate control, power windows, central locking, audio system, electronic control units (ECUs).
Body And Interior:
Seats, airbags, seatbelts, interior trim, body panels, doors, windows, locks, security system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-ups, tire pressure checks, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement.
Operation Guidelines:
Vehicle controls, dashboard indicators and warnings, driving modes (e.g., DNA system), infotainment system usage, climate control operation.
Troubleshooting:
Identification of warning lights, basic fault diagnosis, emergency procedures (e.g., tire change, jump starting).
Depth Level:
Comprehensive owner's level information, covering operation, basic maintenance, and safety features. Not a full workshop/service manual, but provides essential user knowledge.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Readability:
Searchable text, hyperlinked chapters (typical for well-formatted PDFs).
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PCs (Windows, macOS), Linux, smartphones, and tablets.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution digital document, suitable for on-screen viewing and printing.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Product)
Paper:
Not applicable (Digital Product)
Engine Variants Covered:
The manual covers all engine types offered for the 2010 model year. This typically included: 1.4 TB (Turbo Benzina), 1.8 TBi (Turbo Benzina Iniezione), 1.6 JTDM (JTD MultiJet Diesel), 2.0 JTDM (JTD MultiJet Diesel).
Typical Power Output:
Petrol engines: 120 PS (1.4 TB) to 235 PS (1.8 TBi Quadrifoglio Verde). Diesel engines: 105 PS (1.6 JTDM) to 170 PS (2.0 JTDM).
Torque Characteristics:
Emphasis on good low-end torque, particularly from the MultiJet diesel engines, enhancing drivability.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for diesel engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as specified in manual), Diesel Fuel.
Transmission Type Standard:
Typically a 6-speed manual transmission as standard across most engine variants.
Transmission Type Optional:
Optional 'TCT' (Twin Clutch Transmission) was available on some models and later model years, but the 2010 launch models primarily featured manual transmission. The manual would detail its operation if equipped.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would vary by engine and transmission but are detailed in technical sections of comprehensive manuals. This owner's manual would outline usage of the gearbox.
Clutch System:
Hydraulically operated single dry-plate clutch for manual transmissions.
Width:
Approx. 1,790 mm (excluding mirrors)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,630 mm
Boot Capacity:
Approx. 350 liters (expandable with rear seats folded)
Kerb Weight:
Varies by engine, starting from approx. 1,350 kg
Euro Ncap Rating:
5 Stars (achieved a high score in its Euro NCAP tests, reflecting strong occupant protection).
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard fitment of VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), including ABS, EBD, ASR (Traction Control), and MSR (Engine Brake Control).
Brake Assist:
Included as part of the VDC system.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, window airbags, and a driver's knee airbag.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned seatbelts with load limiters for front seats, three-point seatbelts for all other seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX mounting points for child safety seats.
Infotainment System:
Features a standard radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, and optional upgrades could include Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, and navigation system. Steering wheel controls are usually present.
Driving Modes:
Alfa Romeo's DNA (Dynamic, Natural, All Weather) driving mode selector, which adjusts engine response, steering feel, and stability control settings.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Bluetooth Handsfree:
Available as an option, allowing for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 12,000 miles or 1 year (whichever comes first), depending on engine and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For petrol engines (e.g., 1.4 TB, 1.8 TBi), replacement is critical. Interval typically around 60,000-75,000 miles or 5 years. Diesel engines use timing chains, requiring less frequent replacement.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Typically every 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/CF, ACEA C2 or C3, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 (e.g., Selenia K P.E. or equivalent).
Coolant Specification:
Paraflu UP (or equivalent OAT-based coolant, typically pink or blue) with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 specified gear oil. Automatic (TCT): Specific dual-clutch transmission fluid as per manufacturer.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, shock absorbers), clutch wear (manual transmission), turbocharger issues (especially on higher-mileage 1.4 TB and 1.8 TBi), EGR valve issues (diesel engines).
Electrical Quirks:
Intermittent electrical faults, issues with window regulators, and infotainment system glitches can occur. Battery drain can also be an issue if not managed.
Alfa Romeo Legacy:
Alfa Romeo has a long and distinguished history in motorsport and performance car manufacturing, dating back to 1910. Known for its sporty character, innovative engineering, and distinctive Italian design.
Giulietta Lineage:
The name 'Giulietta' has been used by Alfa Romeo for iconic models in the past, notably the Giulietta Sprint of the 1950s and 60s. The 2010 model marked a revival of the nameplate for a modern compact hatchback.
Platform:
Built on Fiat's Compact Premium platform (shared with Fiat Bravo and Lancia Delta).
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled at Alfa Romeo's Cassino plant in Italy.
European Car Of The Year Nomination:
Was a finalist for European Car of the Year in 2010.
Design Awards:
Often praised for its stylish and distinctive Italian design.
Safety Ratings:
5-star Euro NCAP safety rating underscores its structural integrity and occupant protection systems.
