Test drive Alfa Romeo 147 Q2: Mr. Q
The Alfa Romeo 147 JTD is even more dynamic and stable on the road thanks to the Q2 system, in which the Torsen differential on the front drive axle plays a major role. First impressions of the model.
From now on, the most powerful modifications of the compact representatives of the Alfa Romeo line will carry the addition of Q2 to their names. Since the Q4 designation, traditionally used in Alfa Romeo models with all-wheel drive, is obviously intentionally drawn, in this case it is clearly something like a "half" dual transmission. In principle, this is more or less the same - in the Q2, the front-wheel drive is supplemented by a Torsen-type differential with an automatic mechanical lock. Thus, the idea is to achieve better traction, cornering behavior and, ultimately, active safety. The Q2 system takes advantage of the Torsen mechanism's ability to produce a 25 percent locking effect under load and 30 percent under hard acceleration, consistently delivering most of the torque to the wheel with the best grip at that moment.
As incredible as it may sound, the mechanism weighs only about a kilogram! For comparison: the components of the Alfa Romeo Q4 system weigh about 70 kilograms. Of course, not all the benefits of the dual drivetrain can be expected from the Q2, but the Italian designers promise significant improvements in cornering dynamics, as well as almost complete elimination of vibration in the steering system. Our team has tested these ambitions in practice and made sure that these are not empty marketing conversations.
On the Alfa Romeo test track near Baloko in northern Italy, the 147 Q2 shows a qualitatively different dimension in terms of road holding and handling. The behavior of the new modification 147 in corners has absolutely nothing to do with the behavior of its cousins from the same model with conventional front-wheel drive - in border mode there is no helpless front wheel spin, and the tendency to understeer is smoothed out. Instability when driving fast on uneven surfaces? Forget it! If the limits of physics are still exceeded, the Q2 is immediately brought to a halt by traction control and pleasantly belated ESP intervention.
Particularly impressive is the confidence with which the new 147 accelerates out of the bend, following a ruthless and impeccable course. Whether the turning radius is large or small, dry or wet, smooth or rough, well-groomed or broken, it has little to no effect on the car's behavior. The handling also benefits greatly from the almost complete absence of vibration in the steering system. At the moment, the Q2 system will be available in the 147 version with a 1,9-liter turbo diesel with 150 hp. with., as well as in the GT coupe, created on the same platform.
Text: AMS
Photos: Alfa Romeo
2020-08-29
