CAR magazine UK is reporting Alfa Romeo plans to phase out its Mito and Giulietta models as part of a drastic rethink aimed at targeting the success of German rivals BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.
Working closely with Maserati, the radical new business plan will see an all-new range of rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive-only vehicles launched from 2016. As a result all front-wheel-drive production will halt, signalling the end-of-the-line for Mito and Guilietta models as we know them. The express aim of this re-focus is to produce cars that are not only good to look at but also entertaining and rewarding to drive.
While production plans for the highly-anticipated forthcoming Alfa Romeo 4C are already at an advanced stage, talk of at least four new models including two saloons and two SUVs is being heard.
Based on an all-new lightweight platform, CAR is reporting the 3 Series-rivalling Giulia will make an appearance 12 months ahead of the larger, E-Class challenging Alfetta. The first of two new Alfa Romeo-badged SUVs, one to rival the BMW X1 and a later one to take on the likes of the Audi Q5, will follow from 2017.
Expect the new closer relationship with Maserati to afford access to V6 Maserati engines, ZF transmissions and hybrid drivetrains.
