Manufacturer spotlight: Stellantis

Stellantis, the world’s fourth-largest automaker by volume, has taken a turbulent road to electrification. After losing over $20 billion following a botched initial EV push, the group cancelled the Ram 1500 REV in its original form, axed plug-in hybrids across North America, and shelved the Charger Daytona SRT Banshee. What remains is a leaner, eclectic line-up in the industry stemming from an ambitious EV strategy built on two core platforms:

• STLA Large which underpins the most exciting Stellantis EVs in this review. It supports both 400V (Charger Daytona, Wagoneer S, Recon) and 800V architectures (Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio, which will be the first Stellantis models to exploit the platform’s full potential). Batteries scale up to 118 kWh, with a theoretical range ceiling of around 500 miles.

• STLA Medium which s a 400V platform targeting compact and mid-size segments with batteries up to 98 kWh and ranges of up to 435 miles. It underpins upcoming Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler models.

& Leapmotors with the Four Leaf Clover (Leap 3.0 / 3.5) architecture, entirely separate and purpose-built. This is build on the 800V Chinese platform that Stellantis distributes and assembles outside China through the Leapmotor International joint venture. Their goal: A sub-£ 30 000 Chinese crossover

Stellantis EV models at a glance

I’ve been a Jeep fan all my life. I owned a 1967 Jeepster Commando with a Dauntless mill, which I drove 250kms home, heater-less in the middle of a blizzard (-20 C), smile frozen on my face. I almost bought a 4XE but thought the EV was not what I thought it could be. I view the Recon differently.

The Recon is the most eagerly anticipated Stellantis EV and arguably the most important: it is Jeep’s answer to the question of whether serious off-roading can survive electrification. Positioned as the spiritual successor to the Wrangler, it sits on the STLA Large platform and was officially detailed in late 2025.

Specifications

What we like

The Recon makes a compelling case for electric off-roading. Instant torque delivery is a genuine advantage over combustion rivals in low-speed crawling scenarios torque vectoring and an electronic locking rear differential mean either rear wheel can receive full torque even if one is airborne or spinning on loose terrain. The 650 hp and 620 lb-ft figures are staggering for an off-roader, and the 3.6-second 0–60 time is almost irrelevant in this context though it does confirm the hardware is serious. The removable doors, consistent with Wrangler DNA, are confirmed. The STLA Large platform also provides a low center of gravity by packaging the battery in the floor.

 Meh…

The Recon’s key vulnerability is shared with its platform siblings: software. The Wagoneer S was described by Consumer Reports as an “unfinished product,” and the Charger Daytona suffered laggy, buggy software during press testing. For a vehicle intended to be driven deep into the wilderness, software reliability is not optional. Jeep has stated awareness of the issue, and the Recon’s later launch gives it more time to address it. The 250-mile range estimate is also modest and off-road use will reduce it significantly.

Rivals

1. Ford Bronco EV (forthcoming) — the most direct rival conceptually
2. Rivian R1S** — more refined, longer range (~314 miles EPA), superior software, but costlier (~$75,000+) and less trail-oriented in philosophy
3. Land Rover Defender PHEV — combustion-assisted range flexibility, legendary off-road capability, but far pricier

Verdict

The Recon is a bold, necessary product for Jeep. If Stellantis can nail the software, it could be transformative. If it launches with the same glitches as the Wagoneer S, it risks damaging the brand’s most sacred territory.

★★★★ (potential)

★★★ (current software risk)

My favorite truck (I’ve owned: 1950 F-48, 1948 M-68, a new Ram, a new Tundra and 2 LHD Hiluxs) was my 1984 Power Ram W-150 (NP205 t-case), shortbox with a 4sp manual. Solid and couldn’t help but hearing the Simon and Simon theme song everywhere I went. So whenever a new Dodge comes up, regardless of body style, it piques my interest.

This is a Dodge and the most culturally daring EV Stellantis has produced. The Charger Daytona reimagines the iconic muscle car nameplate as a fully electric coupe (and later four-door), complete with a patent-pending “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust” that generates synthesized muscle car sound. It launched as a two-door coupe in 2024–25 with ICE versions following.

Specifications

What we like

Performance figures are extraordinary; the Scat Pack’s 3.3-second 0–60 and 11.5-second quarter mile back up Dodge’s claim of “the world’s quickest production muscle car.” The R-Wing aerodynamic pass-through references the 1968 Charger’s visual DNA while providing real downforce. The Fratzonic Exhaust is a genuine innovation, delivering sound levels that make the Charger feel emotionally alive in a way most EVs don’t attempt. The four-door variant expands practicality while sharing the coupe’s wheelbase and roofline. Charging at 183 kW is class-competitive

Meh…

Software was a significant pain point in press testing lag and bugs were widely reported. The 93.9 kWh battery delivers markedly less range than the 100 kWh Wagoneer S despite a smaller, more aerodynamically efficient body. The SRT Banshee ultra-performance variant has been shelved. At $73,595 for a Scat Pack, the Charger competes against some formidable machines.

Rivals                   Range   Power     0-60    Price  

1. Tesla Model S Plaid     396 miles (EPA) 1020 hp     1.99 sec ~$89,000    
2. BMW M3 EV           TBA TBA hp     TBA sec $TBA    
3. Kia EV6 GT     206 miles (EPA) 577 hp 3.4 sec. $61 600    
4. Polestar 6. TBA 884 hp ~3.2 sec $TBA
5. Mustang Mach-E GT       270 miles 480 hp   3.5 sec ~$63,000

The Charger wins on cultural authenticity and sound design, but the Tesla Model S Plaid devastates it in outright performance and range. For buyers who want the muscle car experience in EV form, there’s nothing else quite like it which is both its strength and its niche

Verdict

The most emotionally resonant Stellantis EV. Performance hardware is real; software quality must improve.

★★★★

The second-generation Stelvio arrives in 2025 as Alfa Romeo’s first fully electric SUV, built on STLA Large’s 800V variant — a significant step beyond the Charger and Wagoneer S. It will also pioneer STLA Brain, Stellantis’s next-generation vehicle computing architecture, promising genuine OTA software improvement and AI-driven dynamic customization.



Specifications 

What we like

The 800V architecture is the most important upgrade over STLA Large’s initial applications. It enables dramatically faster charging rates (potentially 350 kW+) and supports the platform’s full battery capacity. The Quadrifoglio version’s claimed 2.0-second 0–62 mph time — versus the current V6 QV’s 3.9 seconds — underscores a genuine performance step-change. STLA Brain’s OTA capability addresses the software criticism that has dogged earlier STLA Large models. CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato has committed to a driver-focused interior without excessive digital clutter — a refreshing counterpoint to touchscreen overload.

The EREV variant with ~1,000 km total range is particularly clever for European markets where charging infrastructure remains patchy in some regions.

Meh…

Specifications remain partially confirmed ahead of full reveal. Alfa Romeo pricing has climbed significantly in recent years; the Stelvio EV will need to justify its position against well-established German rivals.     

Rivals                   Range   Power     0-60    Price  

1. BMW iX M60. 288 miles (EPA) 619 hp     3.8 sec ~$117 000    
2. Mercedes AMG EQE SUV (53) 263 miles EPA 677 hp     3.4 sec $104 000    
3. Porsche Macan 288–264 miles 355-639 hp 5.1-3.3 sec ~$75,000–$100 000
4. Audi Q6 e-tron 307–321 miles EPA 422-456 hp 4.3-5.9 sec $72 000

The Stelvio EV’s Quadrifoglio variant, if it delivers on its 1,000 hp / 2.0-second claims, would be the fastest SUV on this list. The base and Veloce models must justify their pricing versus the Porsche Macan Electric, currently the benchmark for the segment.

Verdict

High potential, especially the Quadrifoglio. The 800V architecture and STLA Brain give it a genuine technical edge over earlier Stellantis EVs.

The Wagoneer S is Jeep’s first global BEV and its first fully electric vehicle in North America. It’s built on STLA Large with 400V architecture, and launched in 2025 as a premium five-seat SUV positioned above the Grand Cherokee.


Specifications

What we like

The Wagoneer S is genuinely fast 3.4 seconds to 60 mph puts it in sports car territory and well-equipped, with the McIntosh audio system a standout feature. The 300-mile range is competitive for its class. Design is bold and clean, with a proper premium feel inside. As Jeep’s first serious push into the EV luxury space, it makes a strong statement.

 Meh…

The elephant in the room: early reviews were harsh on software quality. Consumer Reports called it an “unfinished product,” and significant dealer discounting (up to $25,000 off in some cases by mid-2025) suggests sluggish sales. The 400V architecture feels slightly behind the 800V curve established by rivals like Hyundai/Kia’s E-GMP platform. At $74,000+, expectations for polish and reliability are high, and Stellantis hasn’t fully met them yet.

Rivals

1. BMW iX xDrive50     324 miles (EPA) 516 hp     ~$89,000    
2. Rivian R1S           314 miles (EPA) 835 hp     ~$75,900    
3. Mercedes EQE SUV     305 miles (EPA) 402–677 hp ~$80,000    
4. Cadillac Escalade IQ 450 miles (EPA) 750 hp     ~$130,000

Verdict

A strong hardware story undermined by software immaturity. Worth watching for mid-cycle OTA updates.

★★★

I own a 911Twin Turbo, the 997 variant. As such, I have the great luck of enjoying all its glory, regularly; I love that car. Still, I get goosebumps thinking about the Giulia EV, Stellantis’s most ambitious product and successor to one of the finest-driving sports sedans of the 2010s. Arriving in 2026 on STLA Large’s 800V architecture, the Giulia must deliver both driver engagement and outright performance to honor its nameplate and the numbers suggest it might.


Specifications 

The Challenge

The original Giulia Quadrifoglio is beloved for its 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 and near-perfect chassis balance. Replicating that emotional connection in an EV is the central challenge. Alfa CEO Imparato’s commitment to a driver-focused cockpit minimal screen excess, analogue-feeling controls is the right instinct. The weight penalty of a large battery pack is the engineering obstacle; STLA Large’s underfloor packaging helps centralize mass, but a 118 kWh Giulia will be heavy.

What we like

A 1,000 hp Giulia QF would eclipse all of them in raw acceleration. Whether it can match the Taycan’s chassis sophistication or the BMW i4’s dynamic breadth is the key question. 

Rivals                   Range   Power     0-60    Price  

1. BMW i4 M50 245 miles (EPA) 536 hp     3.7 sec ~$ 77 000    
2. Mercedes AMG EQE 53 241 miles EPA 617 hp     3.4 sec ~$108 000    
3. Porsche Taycan 282–246 miles 402-938 hp 5.4-2.8 sec ~$93,000–$185 000
4. Tesla Model 3 Perf. 315 miles EPA 510 hp 2.9 sec ~$50 990

Verdict

The most eagerly anticipated Stellantis EV — and the highest stakes. If Alfa nails the driving experience, it could be a landmark car.

potentially ★★★★★

Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in China’s Leapmotor in 2023 for approximately €1.6 billion and formed Leapmotor International, a joint venture in which Stellantis controls 51% with exclusive rights to manufacture, sell and export Leapmotor products outside China. The strategy is straightforward: use Chinese cost efficiency and technology to compete at price points where Stellantis’s own brands cannot reach profitably.

The key models available or imminently arriving in international markets are the T03, C10, and B10, with the B05 and B03X following in late 2026.

Leapmotor models at a glance

The T03 is a pure city tool capped at 62 mph taking 12.7 seconds to 62 mph and getting 165 miles of WLTP range. It competes with the Dacia Spring and Citroën ë-C3. Its strengths are price and practicality; its limitation is the urban-only use case. A small production run in Tychy, Poland, was used to avoid EU import tariffs; long-term European assembly will shift to Zaragoza, Spain from 2026.

Specifications  

What’s to like

The T03 offers a very good range in decent driving comfort. It is an urban focussed tool, great for commuting. If comfort is what you seek, there are many other options available; you may have to give up on price or efficiency.

 What we’ve heard

The trunk/boot is small and the infotainment system was complicated to some. Take this with a grain of salt as ease and comfort vary with the individual.

Rivals

1. Dacia Spring (~£14,995)
2. Citroën ë-C3 (~£18,495)
3. Renault Twingo Electric

Verdict

We consider the Leapmotor T03 as a good value option for urban driving, especially compared to its rivals like the Dacia Spring and Citroën ë-C3.

The C10 is Leapmotor’s flagship product for international markets and its best seller (over 100,000 global deliveries in 14 months). The 2026 update upgraded the BEV to an 800V platform is a significant leap with the 16 minute 30–80% charge time among the fastest in its price bracket globally.

At 4.7 metres long, it is genuinely large for its price class matching the BMW iX3 in footprint while costing substantially less. Equipment is lavish: heated and ventilated seats, 360-degree camera, 12-speaker audio, panoramic roof, heat pump, and ambient lighting all standard.

Specifications 

The Challenge

The C10 is Leapmotor’s flagship product for international markets and its best seller (over 100,000 global deliveries in 14 months). The 2026 update upgraded the BEV to an 800V platform a significant leap with the 16-minute 30–80% charge time among the fastest in its price bracket globally.

At 4.7 metres long, it is genuinely large for its price class matching the BMW iX3 in footprint while costing substantially less. Equipment is lavish: heated and ventilated seats, 360-degree camera, 12-speaker audio, panoramic roof, heat pump, and ambient lighting all standard.

Driving impressions

Driving impressions are mixed: refinement is good, handling is soft and numb, and the interior lacks premium materials. But the value proposition is real.

Rivals                   Range       Price 

1. Skoda Enyaq 85       370 miles WLTP ~£42,000    
2. Renault Scenic E-Tech 379 miles WLTP ~£38,000
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5       316 miles EPA ~£42,000
4. MG S6                 296 miles WLTP. ~£28,000
5. Kia EV6               314 miles EPA ~£44,000

Verdict

The C10 undercuts all mainstream European rivals on price while exceeding most on interior space. It trails on driving dynamics.

The B10 is Leapmotor’s volume play for Europe slightly bigger than most of its B-segment rivals (Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, Volvo EX30, Kia EV3), at a price that undercuts them. At £29,995 all-in with no options needed, it is straightforwardly priced.

The B10 is soft-riding, practical, well-equipped, and thoroughly unexciting to drive. Its interior quality is below Volkswagen Group rivals. That said, for fleet buyers or value-conscious private buyers, the numbers are compelling.

Specifications 

The Challenge

The B10 is Leapmotor’s volume play for Europe — slightly bigger than most of its B-segment rivals (Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, Volvo EX30, Kia EV3), at a price that undercuts them. At £29,995 all-in with no options needed, it is straightforwardly priced.

Driving impressions

The B10 is best described as soft-riding, practical, well-equipped, and thoroughly unexciting to drive. Its interior quality is below Volkswagen Group rivals. Still, for fleet buyers or value-conscious private buyers, the numbers are compelling.

Rivals                   Range       Price 

1. Renault 4 E-Tech 248–310 miles WLTP ~£28,995  
2. Volvo EX30       200 miles WLTP     ~£33,000
3. Puma Gen-E 233 miles WLTP     ~£29,000  
4. Kia EV3         372 miles WLTP     ~£32,000
5. Peugeot e-2008   215 miles WLTP     ~£31,000

Verdict

The B10 competes well on price and space, but lags the Kia EV3 on range and the Renault 4 on driver appeal

 The Big Picture: Can Stellantis Compete?

Consider their Strengths

Brand depth: No other automaker can offer an electric muscle car (Charger), a hardcore off-roader (Recon), a luxury sports sedan (Giulia), and a £30,000 city-friendly SUV (B10) from a single corporate umbrella.

Performance ceiling: The 1,000+ hp Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio models, if delivered, will be genuinely exceptional and their 800V/STLA Brain foundation gives them real technical credibility.

Leapmotor pricing: The C10 and B10 deliver features and space at prices European brands simply cannot match profitably. For fleet operators and budget-conscious buyers, this matters enormously.

Cultural authenticity: The Charger Daytona and Recon understand their customers in ways that generic EVs don’t. The Fratzonic Exhaust may be seen as a gimmick to some, but it’s a thoughtful gimmick.

Potential Weaknesses

Software: This is Stellantis’s single biggest vulnerability. Every STLA Large model launched so far has suffered software criticism. The Wagoneer S ($74,000) being described as an “unfinished product” is commercially damaging. STLA Brain, arriving with the Alfa twins, is the fix but it must deliver.

400V limitations: The Charger Daytona and Wagoneer S are handicapped by 400V architecture in a world increasingly moving to 800V. Competitors like Porsche, Hyundai, and Kia charge significantly faster.

Range conservatism: 250 miles for the Recon, 260 for the Charger Scat Pack these are acceptable but not exceptional figures given battery capacities of 94–100 kWh.

Leapmotor image: In premium markets, being associated with a Chinese brand sold through Stellantis showrooms creates channel confusion and perception challenges.

Our thoughts:

Stellantis’s EV lineup is simultaneously its most exciting and most frustrating product range in years. The hardware ambition is real 1,000 hp Alfa Romeos, an off-road electric Jeep, a genuine muscle car but software immaturity has undercut early launches. The group’s Leapmotor partnership is a savvy hedge: affordable Chinese technology distributed through established dealership networks, sidestepping the impossible economics of building a budget EV in Turin or Windsor.

The next 18 months are critical. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Giulia, with their 800V architecture and STLA Brain computing platform, must prove that Stellantis has fixed its software problems. The Jeep Recon must launch cleanly. If both happen, Stellantis could field one of the most diverse and compelling EV lineups of any mainstream automaker. If software glitches persist, no amount of horsepower will rescue the narrative.

Specifications current as of March 2026. Some figures for 2026 models are based on confirmed manufacturer data and credible industry estimates ahead of full specification release. Prices may vary by market and trim level.