Skip advert
Advertisement

Alfa Romeo MiTo TCT

Stylish Italian supermini now comes equipped with an efficient twin-clutch gear box - we travelled to Italy to find out if VW's DSG has met its match!

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Alfa Romeo MiTo
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Alfa’s TCT gearbox works well, providing the ease of an auto without the performance and economy penalties. Those wanting a sportier drive will still get more kicks from a manual, even though Alfa has integrated TCT into its DNA system nicely. However, the poor ride and lifeless steering mean the MiTo is still no MINI beater. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Meet Alfa Romeo’s new twin! The Italian company has made its first dual-clutch transmission, called TCT, and the MiTo supermini is the first model to use it.

Developed by Fiat, the six-speed box is hooked up to a 135bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir petrol engine, although it will also appear in petrol and diesel versions of the new Giulietta hatch from the spring. 

Alfa is the latest in a string of manufacturers to offer a dual-clutch transmission, but the MiTo is only the second car to combine it with stop-start technology – the first being the Porsche Panamera.

On paper, the figures are impressive; economy, emissions and acceleration are all improved over the manual car. Plus, steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters are standard, allowing quick manual changes when you’re in the mood.

During leisurely driving, the TCT box shifts smoothly, regardless of whether it’s in full auto or manual mode. The set-up is linked to the car’s DNA switch, which alters the handling from comfort to sporty.

In Dynamic mode, TCT holds gears for longer and shifts down more aggressively when pushing on. However, the gearbox can have a tendency to pause slightly while it decides which ratio to use, and it over-revs occasionally, regardless of the DNA setting. 

The stop-start system can be frustrating, too – once the engine cuts out, there’s a brief wait while it fires up and first gear is engaged. That’s not ideal at busy junctions, although the system can be deactivated.

Otherwise, TCT is as impressive as VW’s DSG box. It will certainly satisfy those looking for an easier life in their Italian supermini.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,161 off RRP*
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,300
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,788 off RRP*Used from £15,300
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £3,152 off RRP*Used from £14,700
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years
MG Cyber X design render - front

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years

Boxy small SUV is gearing up for production, and our exclusive images show how the model might look
News
30 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease
Ford Puma Gen-E - front action

Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease

The EV grant has made the Ford Puma Gen-E a lot cheaper, and lease customers can cash-in with today’s Deal of the Day
News
29 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month

The Renault 5 is taking the market by storm – and at this price it’s easy to see why. It’s our Deal of the Day for August 30
News
30 Aug 2025