Alfa Romeo’s slick looking Giulietta can now be bought with the firm’s TCT twin-clutch automatic gearbox.

Introduced into the mainstream by Volkwagen under the 'DSG' banner and since seen in Audis, Seats and Skodas, twin-clutch automatics are now becoming a must-have option.

Available on most powerful Giuliettas

Twin-clutch gearboxes are designed to be a lot sportier in feel compared to a conventional automatic - an attribute Alfa Romeo clearly feels sits well with its image. Already available in the MiTo, the six-speed TCT gearbox will be offered on two of the more powerful Giulietta engine options – the 1.4-litre MultiAir turbo petrol and the 2.0-litre JTDM-2 diesel, both with 168bhp.

The latter, with its 236lb ft of pulling power, is a convincing rival for the 168bhp VW Golf GTD – the diesel GTI – which is available with a comparable six-speed DSG gearbox. So equipped, the Golf costs a hefty £26,530 in five-door form, while the Giulietta 2.0 JTDM-2 TCT costs £24,450 in Lusso and £25,290 in sporty Veloce trim. The Giulietta’s 119g/km CO2 and 62.8mpg are also significantly better than the Golf’s figures - and it’s faster too.