For Lino Guanciale, arriving on set in his preferred vehicle is a cherished ritual before captivating audiences in the series Le libere donne (Free Women). While he portrays Dr. Mario Tobino within the walls of the Maggiano psychiatric hospital in 1942 Lucca, the actor from Abruzzo chooses the character and grit of a distinctly Italian creation in his everyday life. The Rai 1 fiction explores the human spirit and the suffering of secluded women, but in his personal time, Guanciale relies on the technical precision and power of his Alfa Romeo Stelvio. It’s a pairing that embodies elegance and substance.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio, launched in 2016 and built on the Giorgio architecture – the same platform as the Giulia – aims to bring the spirit of a sports car to the SUV segment. The vehicle, currently available starting at €56,300, takes its name from the Stelvio Pass, a challenging mountain road known for testing vehicle handling. With a near 50:50 weight distribution and a relatively lightweight build, the Stelvio immediately challenged established German rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, earning praise for its exceptionally direct steering, as Guanciale himself shared with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Stelvio Engine Options and Performance
The Stelvio offers a range of engines to suit different driving preferences. The 2.2 JTDm diesel is available in three outputs (160, 190, and 210 horsepower), all paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. For those prioritizing performance, the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine delivers 280 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. At the top of the range sits the Quadrifoglio version, a true performance flagship. Powered by a 2.9-liter V6 biturbo engine producing 510-520 horsepower derived from Ferrari, the Quadrifoglio set a lap time of 7:51 at the Nürburgring in 2017, a category record at the time. Alfa Romeo’s Q4 all-wheel-drive system and DNA selector allow drivers to tailor the car’s behavior, switching between “Natural” mode for relaxed urban driving and “Dynamic” for winding roads.
The Stelvio’s interior reflects Alfa Romeo’s driver-centric philosophy. Rather than large touchscreen displays that can be distracting, the cabin features premium materials and an integrated 8.8-inch infotainment system. The 525-liter trunk provides ample space for the frequent travel demands of an actor like Guanciale.
Le libere donne: Exploring the Human Condition
On Rai 1, Lino Guanciale is set to headline Le libere donne, a series based on Mario Tobino’s novel. The story is set in 1942, where Guanciale portrays Tobino, a doctor-poet striving to bring humanity to the suffering within the Maggiano psychiatric hospital. The narrative centers on Margherita (Grace Kicaj), a woman committed after rebelling against an abusive husband. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn Italy and the implementation of racial laws, Guanciale’s character will challenge outdated medical practices to grant a voice to those silenced. The six-episode miniseries, also starring Fabrizio Biggio and Francesca Cavallin, promises to be a profound offering this season. Whether behind the wheel of his Alfa Romeo or on the set of a major Rai production, Lino Guanciale consistently demonstrates a preference for stories and machines with soul.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio, starting at €56,300, represents a blend of Italian style and performance, mirroring the artistic sensibilities of its admirer, Lino Guanciale. The vehicle’s design and engineering reflect a commitment to driving pleasure, offering a compelling option for those seeking a sporty SUV experience.
As Guanciale prepares to captivate audiences with Le libere donne, his choice of vehicle speaks to a broader appreciation for craftsmanship and a connection to the Italian automotive tradition. The series is expected to spark conversation about historical trauma and the importance of empathy, themes that resonate with Guanciale’s own artistic pursuits.
What will be the critical reception of Le libere donne? And will Guanciale’s on-screen portrayal of Dr. Tobino further solidify his reputation as one of Italy’s most compelling actors? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
