Alfa Romeo has released a new, Sport version of its Giulietta hatchback, featuring a subtle, red-edged bodykit and a decent equipment roster.

The Giulietta Sport’s five-hole, 17-inch alloy wheels ape those of the Giulia Quadrifoglio supersaloon, while the front and rear splitters are edged with red detailing. Side skirts, tinted rear windows, fog lights and an “extra-large” twin exhaust are also included, while the Giulietta Sport is available in the same Misano Blue paint previously reserved for the rapid Giulia and Giulietta Veloce.

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The focus is more on the driving feel than outright performance as far as engines are concerned. Alfa is offering the Giulietta Sport with a 117bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol or an equally powerful 1.6-litre diesel engine. These, respectively, take 9.4 and 10 seconds to go from 0-62mph, officially returning 45.6mpg and 74.3mpg.

Equipment levels are pretty reasonable, with the Sport bringing a “techno-leather” steering wheel, FCA’s familiar five-inch Uconnect infotainment system, cruise and climate control, plus a front armrest and Alfa’s DNA driving mode selector.

The Sport slots into the Giulietta range between the unnamed entry-level model and the Giulietta Tecnica. Prices start at £20,965 for the petrol Giulietta Sport, rising to £22,340 for the diesel. Those prices roughly equate to a £1,200 premium over the base car. Meanwhile, the Misano Blue paint is a £525 option.

Read our in-depth review of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta…