Criswell Alfa Romeo

Refreshingly pleasant, enjoyable experience working with James Tan and the Criswell team to return my leased Guilia and lease a new one.

James was excellent to work with. He ensured I had a chance to see and compare all the cars I was considering, answered all questions I had, and made the entire experience a breeze.

By far the best car buying experience I have ever had.

This is a longer review, but I wanted to wait until a month of ownership of the Stelvio before I wrote it. Spoiler alert: we love it.

First of all, if you're in the market for an X3 or Q5, you MUST test drive the Stelvio. When it comes to the driving experience, you'll be pleasantly surprised.

I had a 328i manual transmission couple that I loved. Our baby needed a booster seat, so unfortunately we had to transition out of a coupe. We test drove the X3, 330i, RDX, Q5, Highlander and the Passport (all 2020s).

The X3, 330i and Q5 had great tech, but did not match in driving experience to my old bmw. Obviously can't compare the driving experience of a sport coupe to a sedan/SUV, but I guess I expected more from the brand new BMWs. The new BMWs felt boat-y (word?), over-styled, and looking back, I would overall describe them as "underwhelming." In any event, we committed to get the X3.

The Stelvio was a last minute addition. It's not on many top 10 lists, and frankly I thought Alfas were out of our price range. We were surprised to learn the Alfa/Maserati Criswell dealership was hidden off of Middle Brook Rd. close to our home in Germantown. The plan was formed to test drive the Stelvio just to check off a final box, but still 99% planned to go with the X3.

We took the Stelvio home the same day. We love the car. it's different, fast, fun, spacious, and handles like a coupe. The review quote that accurately summarizes our experience (my wife found it) was:

"In a world of bland crossovers, the Stelvio is a spicy Italian meatball in a Ferragamo suit."

On top of our awesome experience with the Stelvio itself, was the excellent experience at Criswell Alfa.

James was our non-pushy sales guy. He has an old dad vibe, but knew or was able to get any and all of the information we needed. He was knowledgeable about the vehicle, specs, tech and various packages that distinguished the vehicles.

The finance manager Krystie is a financial guru. As a team they made us feel like they wanted our business, worked on our pricing, gave us space when we needed to consider our options, and really made the deal happen.

All in all, definitely go to Criswell Alfa Romeo. Ask for James and Krystie, they made this major decision a fantastic experience.

Good experience. Best deals. I drove all the way from NYC and they kept their word. Everything on the paper was exactly what I had been offered. It was an easy transaction. No pressure for extra stuff.

Worked with Robert and Danny on a new Stelvio via email. Very easy to deal with, straightforward, fair and transparent. Drove 2.5 hours from VA to pick up Stelvio and turn in my Alfa lease. Nearly everything was done before I arrived and was in and out in about an hour. Outstanding service and a great vehicle!

Highly recommend Criswell as well as Alfa Romeo.