Alfa Romeo has seemingly lurched from one do-or-die situation to the next the past few decades, and latest reports suggest that it is currently in the process of finalising one of its biggest new model offenses of all time (again) as it prepares for its all-important re-entry into the American market, scheduled for next year. Will these new cars finally restore its position as a serious contender? Looks promising…
Of course, the likelihood of all of these models (particularly the 4C) reaching South Africa is unclear, but with the recent “marriage” of Chrysler and Fiat in South Africa, the benefits of a more profitable and larger dealership network for Fiat/Alfa Romeo can only improve chances of these new vehicles reaching local shores.
Alfa Romeo 4C
The junior “8C” has been confirmed for production and should reach European (and American) showrooms next year. Production will take place in the Maserati factory in Modena. It has since also been confirmed that a targa-top “Spider” version can be expected at a later date, possibly in 2014/2015.
Both coupé and “Spider” versions will be powered by the marque’s powerful 1750 TBI engine (delivering in excess of 200 kW), mated with the dual-clutch TCT transmission. Due to the generous use of carbon fibre in its construction expect a weight of around 900 kg, resulting in blistering performance (0-100 km/h in 4,5 seconds). It will be pricey though, with the rumoured cost being in the region of Euro 50 000. Although there is no confirmation yet of right-hand drive availability, it looks increasingly likely to be on the cards.
Alfa Romeo Spider/Duetto
As reported earlier this year, Mazda and Alfa Romeo have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop and produce two new roadsters based on the platform of the next-generation Mazda MX-5, which will be a compact, lightweight and, importantly, rear-wheel-driven product. The Alfa product will reportedly herald a return to the values of the original Alfa Spider.
It remains to be seen which engines will be offered in the future Spider line-up, but it stands to reason that the turbocharged four-cylinder MultiAir motors offered in the current Mito and Guilietta, mated with either six-speed manual or dual-clutch (TCT) transmissions, are likely to be considered.
By virtue of sharing its underpinnings with a car that will definitely be offered in the Japanese market (the MX-5), it’s virtually guaranteed that the Spider will be produced in right-hand-drive form as well. Expect it in 2014.
Alfa Romeo Kamal/Crossover SUV
Production of the Jeep Liberty/Cherokee recently stopped in Toledo, America as the factory prepares for the introduction of an all-new Jeep SUV next year. It has already confirmed that this product (which will likely replace the Cherokee), will be based on the Fiat Compact Wide platform that will underpin a large number of future vehicles in the Fiat/Chrysler group. A Giulietta test mule with seriously raised ground clearance was recently spotted in America, but this was most likely camouflage for the new Jeep Cherokee. It is suspected that the Jeep version will be more off-road biased than the Alfa spin-off, which in turn will target the likes of crossover SUVs such as the Range Rover Evoque and Audi Q3. The Alfa SUV will be built in Toledo and will likely make use of a range o MultiAir petrol engines, as well as turbodiesels. It should be revealed late next year.
Alfa Romeo Giulia & Sportwagon
One of the most important models currently undergoing development is the 159 successor, to be called Giulia. Its importance is reflected in its troubled design process – apparently four different designs by Fiat’s Centro Stile have been rejected by Sergio Marchionne, Fiat/Chrysler CEO. It is reported that the Giulia’s design work has since moved entirely to the USA, where it will also be built. Although speculation is rife that this new D-segment model will feature rear-wheel drive (with optional all-wheel drive), the more likely scenario remains front-wheel drive with Q4 all-wheel drive for the more expensive versions.
The Giulia faces a tough challenge – to take the fight to the German Big Three (Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class). It will be powered by a range MultiAir petrol engines, stretching from a frugal (but punchy) 1,4-litre turbo, through the 1750 TBi four-cylinder unit of various outputs to a MultiAir version of Chrysler’s Pentastar V6. There is also talk of a new V6 turbodiesel model, reportedly featuring three turbos. Rumoured is a Hybrid version featuring an energy-recuperation system similar to what is used in F1 (KERS).
A stylish coupé version is also mooted, as is a Sportwagon estate variant. The Giulia is expected to hit international showrooms in 2014.
Other rumours
We hear the successor to the Mito hatchback has been delayed along with the new-generation Fiat Punto. B-segment hatchbacks sell mainly in Europe (where the market is under pressure), and as a result is not a major focus for Marchionne right now. Reportedly, Fiat is looking for a partner to help co-develop future B-segment cars, and Mazda has been mentioned as one candidate, now that it is divorced from Ford.
Also, there are rumours that Alfa Romeo is planning an even larger crossover (Giulia based), as well as a new flagship saloon model (often referred to as 169) to slot in above the Giulia. The GTA moniker could also be revived in future, and could become associated with high-tech features such as KERS.
