Nuova Simonelli Nuova Aurelia Semiautomatic XT 2-Group Espresso Machine

The Nuova Aurelia Semiautomatic XT 2GR is a two-group Nuova Simonelli espresso machine with manual extraction control, a 2.8-inch touchscreen and PID temperature control. It was made for baristas who decide for themselves when to stop the espresso, and who want stable temperature and an overview of the machine’s operation on the display. It is the most affordable way into the new generation of the Aurelia with XT technology, and on a 230 V supply it does not need a three-phase connection.

Manual control: who it makes sense for

In the semi-automatic version each group has one button: the barista starts the extraction and stops it, watching the stream and the weight in the cup. There are no programmed volumes, so every espresso depends on the person behind the bar.

That is an advantage in a specialty café, where the barista works with a scale, changes coffees regularly and adjusts the extraction time to a specific coffee. It is a drawback in a venue with staff turnover, where the machine is used by people without barista training. There, a volumetric version works better, as the machine ends the extraction on its own after the set volume.

SEM XT or Volumetric: comparison

	Semiautomatic XT	Volumetric	Volumetric XT
End of extraction	manual, by the barista	automatic, 5 doses	automatic, 5 doses
2.8″ touchscreen	yes	no	yes
PID	yes	no	yes
Auto-purge (option)	yes	no	yes

If you need consistency without relying on a barista, see the Nuova Aurelia Volumetric or the Volumetric XT.

PID and SIS in the Nuova Aurelia SEM XT

When extraction is controlled by hand, temperature is the only variable the barista cannot control directly. That is why PID matters especially in this version: electronic control keeps the temperature at the set level, and changes are made from the touchscreen.

The SIS (Soft Infusion System) runs a gentle pre-infusion, so the espresso has a fuller body and lasting crema, and uneven tamping affects the taste less. E-Steam with an electronic knob handles steam without classic levers.

Nuova Aurelia Semiautomatic XT 2GR technical data

Manufacturer code	MNAURE1SDG02
Number of groups	2
Steam boiler	10 L
Power	4700 W
Power supply	220-240 V, 50/60 Hz
Dimensions (W x D x H)	820 x 562 x 515 mm
Net / gross weight	78 / 84 kg
Body	stainless steel and ABS

Also standard: insulated boiler, Hot Water Economizer, three hot water doses, pull-out drip tray and automatic cleaning programme.

The Nuova Aurelia SEM XT is not the Aurelia Wave

The Nuova Aurelia is the new generation and the successor to the Aurelia Wave, unveiled in 2023. Shops sometimes use both names interchangeably, so check the manufacturer code when comparing prices. MNAURE1SDG02 is the Nuova Aurelia Semiautomatic XT 2GR.

Options and colours

Available: raised groups, auto-purge, double-wall steam wand, display above the group, LED lighting, programmable cup warmer, pump motor cooling, hot water temperature control, the E-Milk module (automatic frothing of milk and plant drinks, up to 9 recipes) and telemetry-ready. The manufacturer’s photo shows the version with the E-Milk module.

Standard colours at no extra cost: black, red, white, metallic grey.