Alfa Romeo has expanded its Giulia range to include a new Veloce model.

Combining the dynamics and comfort of the Giulia range to offer ‘affordable performance and luxury’, the new model sits between the Giulia Speciale and flagship Quadrifoglio in the line-up.

The new Giulia Veloce debuts an exclusive 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, partnered with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel-drive. The four-cylinder engine is made entirely of aluminium, generating 280hp and a maximum torque of 400Nm at 2,250 rpm, taking it from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph. It features a "2-in-1" turbocharger system and direct injection, with 200-bar pressure. Made in the factory at Termoli, Italy, this new engine returns 46.3mpg on the combined cycle and emits 141g/km CO2.

Sharing the enhanced sports exterior styling of the Speciale, this includes sports bumpers, black gloss window surround and rear sports diffuser with dual exhausts, but adds 18-inch 10-spoke Turbine alloy wheels and black brake calipers. Misano Blue paint is available, as an option, exclusively on the Giulia Veloce. Inside, a driver focused layout is complimented by a choice of black, tan or red Italian leather Sport seats and aluminium shift paddles on the steering column.

Standard equipment includes front & rear parking sensors, headlamp washers and upgraded braking system with larger diameter front and rear brake discs, on top of the standard dual-zone climate control, Alfa DNA driving mode selector and 8.8-inch Alfa Connect infotainment system.

Achieving a five-star Euro NCAP rating and 98 per cent score for passenger safety, all models in the Giulia range includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Integrated Braking System (IBS) and cruise control with speed limiter.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce is available to order now, priced from £37,935 OTR.