ALFA GIULIA GTAm TOPS ALFA VOTING POLL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Although Alfa Romeo has to date created more than 70 models in its rich 100 year history, it all came down to a battle between just two iconic Alfas in a poll of fans’ favourites, initiated to celebrate the Italian marque’s centenary year.

And it was the Alfa Giulia GTAm that came top of the poll, beating the 8C Competizione supercar to the chequered flag with less than one percent more of the vote.

The Alfa Giulia GTAm, which gained 20.4 per cent of the overall tally, derived from the standard 1750 GT Veloce production model, and secured its place in the Alfa Romeo elite by winning the 1970 European Touring Car Championship in the hands of Dutchman Toine Hezemans. The votes for this poll were collected from admirers and owners – known as Alfisti - who submitted photos of their Alfas to the alfacentenary.co.uk website to create a unique piece of mosaic artwork.

The GTAm and Alfa’s current supercar, the 8C Competizione, led the way against a shortlist of classics including the 2900 B Le Mans, Alfasud and the 156 GTA.

A worthy runner-up with 19.8 per cent, the 8C Competizione - worth more than £123,000 - debuted as a concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003 and went on to be produced in 2008 as a limited edition model of just 500 examples and selling out almost immediately. The car’s name derives from Alfa’s world famous 8 cylinder (8C) engine and the marque’s racing pedigree.

The Alfa Spider Duetto, widely regarded as a design classic, finished in third place with 16.01 per cent of the vote. This car was first launched in 1966 and famously starred in the legendary film The Graduate in 1967, alongside Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft.

Alfa Romeo UK Brand Communications manager, Damien Dally, says: “The Giulia GTAm was a great Alfa and a deserved winner. It’s really interesting to see how people voted in the poll. We all have our favourites which is testament to the fantastic cars Alfa Romeo has produced over the past century.”

The latest five-door Alfa Giulietta model, which takes styling cues from the iconic 8C Competizione, is now on sale in dealerships across the UK. For further information visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk

Full list of results:

Alfa Giulia GTAm 20.4%; 8C Competizione 19.8%; Alfa Spider Duetto 16.1%; Alfa Giulietta 13.1%; Alfa Sud 11%; Alfa 156 GTA 7.5%; Alfa 159 Alfetta 7.3%; Alfa 8C 2900 B Le Mans 3.4%; Alfa Giulia 1600 Sprint Speciale 1.4%;

 

Alfa Romeo celebrates its 100th anniversary and Milan stages four days of events

For the Alfa Romeo centenary, the city of Milan will pay homage to the historic car manufacturer by staging four days of events from 24 to 27 June involving the City Council, Fiera Milano Expo, the Monza Race Track and the Alfa Romeo Museum. The interesting programme was organised by the Italian Alfa Romeo Register (RIAR) and MAC Group, consolidated Fiat Group Automobiles partner for historical heritage projects, and is sponsored by Alfa Romeo.

An extraordinary appointment for motor enthusiasts and “Alfisti” worldwide: collectors, club members and current model owners. More or less 3000 Alfa Romeo cars are expected from 45 countries.

The schedule of the events and a brief overview of Alfa Romeo's one century long history, which started on 24 June 1910 in Milan, follow. The 100th anniversary is a prestigious achievement shared by a very small number of other auto makers, peppered with commercial successes and racing wins acquired worldwide. Celebrating Alfa Romeo's centenary means leafing through some of the most important pages in automotive history in terms of design and innovation. Indeed, Alfa Romeo has always stood out for its fascinating style capable of transmitting strong emotions and for state-of-the-art technology, as well as top-level handling and driving pleasure.

Schedule of the events

Some activities will take place on 24 June, the day when Alfa Romeo was founded, before the main events which will be held during the weekend. Thursday morning will be kicked off by the presentation press conference in the spectacular setting of Palazzo Marino, historic seat of the Milan city authorities. Open sessions will be held in the afternoon from 1 to 6 o'clock at the Monza Race Track (contact the RIAR secretary office for bookings).

On 24 and 25 June the Alfa Romeo Museum in Arese will be open from nine in the morning to midnight and guided visits in several languages will be organised: what better way to learn more about scores of Alfa Romeo models up front?

From 24 to 27 June, classic models will be displayed alongside the brand-new Alfa Romeo Giulietta in some of the most beautiful and important squares of Milan. Last but not least, Poste Italiane will be attending and present a special stamp cancellation specially created to celebrate the centenary.

The key event of the calendar will be the huge international rally dedicated to all Alfa Romeo enthusiasts on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27. Thousands of crews have registered and will be parading through the centre of Milan on the afternoon of 26 June. All cars will meet up on Saturday morning at Fiera Milano (Rho) where the exhibition "Fiera Milano e Alfa Romeo: frammenti d'insieme" (Fiera Milano and Alfa Romeo: parts of a whole) can be seen. From here, the enrolled Alfa Romeos will set off in procession to the centre of Milan, final destination: the Sforzesco Castle, where the most significant models of the brand's one-hundred year history will take to the catwalk.

A statue donated by RIAR (an association which brings together more than 1500 vintage Alfa owners) and by many enthusiasts worldwide will be presented in front of the south gate of Fiera Milano Expo in a ceremony a few hours before the parade. Inspired by the famous Alfa Romeo 1900 Disco Volante (Flying Saucer), the work was designed by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo with the collaboration of artist Agostino Bonalumi.

The first day of the international rally will end in the evening near Sempione Park with a dinner together in the many city centre venues before a firework display. The record-breaking exhibition on the morning of Sunday 27 June will certainly be even more exciting, when all the enrolled crews will form a massive line of Alfa Romeos, all bearing the characteristic "Biscione" emblem on the roof. They will parade along the inner lane of the Milan ring road and be filmed from a helicopter. Alfa Romeo will symbolically embrace the city where it was born.

Finally, all enthusiasts can complete this exciting experience by visiting the “100X100 Alfa” exhibition at Parco Esposizioni Novegro (Milan) from 19 to 27 June. Hundreds of cars, wins and successes will be displayed, model after model, to celebrate the history of Alfa Romeo: not only one-off models designed for performance and races but also many standard production cars that conquered the collective imagination and transported generations of Italians. The exhibition is organised by C.M.A.E., the Milan Classic Car & Motorbike Club, with the collaboration of A.S.I., Italian Classic Car & Motorcycle Club, and Alfa BlueTeam.

1910 – 2010: Alfa Romeo celebrates a century of wins and world records

Alfa Romeo was officially established in Milan on 24 June 1910. That year, a group of entrepreneurs and businessmen acquired Società Italiana Automobili Darracq, the Italian branch of the French car maker, and its Portello workshops on the city outskirts, and established A.L.F.A. (Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili – “Lombard Automobile Factory, Public Company”). The emblem underlined the new company's ties to the city of Milan: a red cross from the city's banner and the Visconti family "grass snake" ("Biscione" in Italian). The first car to sport it was the “24 HP”, a model that stood out from the very beginning for its mechanics, performance and driving pleasure - features which will become by-words for the brand.

The outbreak of World War I and limited resources created trouble for the company, which was acquired on 2 December 1915 by Neapolitan engineer and entrepreneur Nicola Romeo. The name was changed to “Alfa-Romeo”. The Portello plant, with a workforce of 2500 workers, was expanded and converted to war production. The plant made engine compressors, ammunition, aircraft engines and - starting in 1917 - trains. The company went back to making cars at the end of the war.

Alfa Romeo made a first important leap forward winning Targa Florio in 1923 (the brand's first of ten wins) with the “RL TF”, which was also the first appearance of the four-leaf clover (“quadrifoglio” in Italian) racing emblem, and then in 1925 with the “P2 Gran Premio”, that won the first Automobile World Championship in history, the first of Alfa Romeo's five victories.

In the meantime, Romeo replaced Alfa Chief Engineer Giuseppe Merosi, who had created the first models and joined the company back in 1910, with Vittorio Jano, technical creator of the great Alfas of the 1930s. His debut model was the “P2”, which was followed by the “6C 1500” (1928), “6C 1750” (1930), “8C 2300” (1931) and the “Gran Premio Tipo B-P3” (1932), all models which greatly contributed to increasing the “Quadrifoglio” prize record and elevated the technical prestige of cars made at the Portello plant. Jano was responsible for the legendary "8C" eight cylinder in-line engine with supercharger.

The 1930s were the years in which the Alfa Romeo legend took shape. Engine reliability was undisputed and the names of valorous drivers - Antonio Ascari, Gastone Brilli Peri, Giuseppe Campari, Enzo Ferrari, Tazio Nuvolari, Achille Varzi - were on everybody's lips. They won many legendary races: Mille Miglia (11 wins, an undefeated record), Le Mans 24 Hours (four consecutive editions), Targa Florio, and a very long list of international Grand Prix. In addition, the valuable indications arising from racing were transferred to standard production models.

The worldwide recession that followed the Wall Street Crash of 1929 had repercussions on Alfa's expansion: the company was taken over in 1933 by IRI (Istituto per la Ricostruzione Industriale - Industrial Reconstruction Institute). Ugo Gobbato was appointed Managing Director. He rationalised and reorganised production focusing on the core business of aircraft engines, industrial vehicles and touring and racing cars. The company left the world of racing in the year and its “8C2300B” cars were given to Scuderia Ferrari. Results were brilliant: Alfa won more races than any other manufacturer in 1934, and racing even outshone standard production in 1936. Aeronautic production reached nearly 80 percent of the entire yearly revenue. New orders came in, also from abroad, and a new plant was opened in Pomigliano d'Arco (Naples) at the end of the decade.

The outbreak of World War II on 10 June 1940 unsettled the company's ambitious plans. As most Italian industries, Alfa converted to war production and its plants were bombed by the Allies (the Portello plant ceased operations all together following the damage it received on 20 October 1944). Work resumed the following April after the peace treaty was signed but the workshops had been damaged and there were no components for making aircraft engines, coaches or cars. So the eight thousand workers of the Portello plant made electric cooking ranges, metallic furniture, doors, windows and shutters - in other words, the objects needed to rebuild a country.

Auto building was resumed only in 1946. Pre-war 6C 2500s rolled out of the factory and 158s salvaged from the debris raced on tracks. New versions (Freccia d'oro and Villa d'Este), fitting an innovative steering wheel mounted gear shift, soon arrived. The 1900, the first Alfa with monocoque body shell, was designed by Orazio Satta Puliga (who had joined the company in 1938) in 1950, and the first assembly chain was opened at the Portello plant. Racing wins multiplied. The supremacy of the Alfa 158 in Grand Prix was absolute and Nino Farina won the Formula 1 World Championship in 1950. In the following year was legendary Juan Manuel Fangio's turn: he won the second Championship behind the wheel of an Alfa Romeo 159 fitted with the most powerful 1500 engine ever made delivering 425 HP at over 300 km/h. Straight afterwards, Alfa decided to retire from Grand Prix competitions but kept on competing in the Sport category with the “1900 Disco Volante”, a flying-saucer shaped car capable of reaching a top speed of 225 km/h. In the meanwhile, the company concentrated on the production of standard cars, industrial vehicles, aircraft and naval engines, and diesel engines for industrial applications. Following the IRI reorganisation in 1948, Alfa passed into the Finmeccanica sub-holding.

“Giulietta Sprint” was introduced in 1954. This car - along with the “Spider” (1955) and the “berlina” (1955) - would be crucial, and not only for the history of Alfa: it established new parameters (this was the first standard car with a two-shaft engine entirely made of aluminium) and embodied Italy's willingness to emerge from the dark years of the war. Furthermore, it consolidated Alfa Romeo's vocation as "major auto maker". The 1960s started with the success of the “Giulia” (1962), which developed the philosophy of the earlier “Giulietta” with new proportions, forcing Alfa Romeo to expand the shop floor and open a new plant in Arese near Milan. At the end of its long, honoured career, “Giulia” and its spinoffs - the “Giulia Sprint GT” (1964), the “1600 Spider Duetto” (1966) and the “1750” in saloon, coupé and spider versions - reached the outstanding goal of one million units made. Racing activities continued throughout the decade. The Autodelta racing team was established and Alfa Romeo won on tracks worldwide with the “Giulia TZ” (1963), “TZ 2” (1965), “Giulia GTA” (1965) and “33” (from ’69 to ’71).

The 1960s were florid years for the company: cars were sold worldwide and ties with the United States market - still particularly lively today - were consolidated. As a result of the forward-thinking managerial skills of Giuseppe Luraghi, CEO until 1974, and the remarkable engineering skills of Orazio Satta Puliga, Alfa Chief Engineer, who created all the models up to the "Alfetta", Alfa Romeo reached the peak of its development. The Portello plant, by now incorporated in the spreading city of Milan, was insufficient. Production was gradually transferred to the new plant (with an area of over two million and a half square metres) which was opened in Arese and a prototype test track was opened in Balocco (Vercelli).

Following the high increase in demand, Alfa Romeo planned the opening of a new plant in Pomigliano d'Arco (Naples): the foundation stone was laid on 29 April 1968. Engineer Rudolf Hruska was called to design a new car: the "Alfasud", a compact entry-level car equipped with a number of sophisticated mechanical solutions (flat-4 “boxer” overhanging front engine), was introduced in 1971. Production of the ”Alfetta” started in Arese the following year. This sporty saloon with sophisticated mechanics (longitudinal front engine, rear wheel drive, “De Dion” rear axle and transaxle) was leader in its segment for many years: the "Alfetta GT” (1974), followed by the lower segment “New Giulietta” (1977) saloon, were the backbone of production at the Arese plant. In the meantime Alfa Romeo took two World Championship titles: in 1975 with the 33 TT 12 (Manufacturers Championship), and in 1977 with the 33 SC 12 (Prototype Championship).

Troubles deriving from the social unrest of the seventies were felt across Italy and in Alfa Romeo. Despite this, the company pulled ahead preparing models and strategies for the forthcoming decade: the "Alfa 33”, replaced the "Alfasud” in 1983, the remarkable “Alfetta” was replaced by the "Alfa 90” (1984) and the "Alfa 75” (1985), the last of the “Alfetta” family, was introduced to celebrate the brand's 75th anniversary.

The company changed hands again in 1986, for the third time in its history. Fiat Group acquired Alfa Romeo, at that time producing the brand-new top-range saloon “164” (1987). The car's success would revive Alfa Romeo and the Arese plant. 1992 was the year of the “155”, remarkably successful in races. The “145” was introduced to replace the “33” in 1994 and the sporty “GTV” and “Spider” were launched the following year. The model of the 1990s revival was the “156” (1997). The sporty hatchback is the result of a new style and top-notch technical contents (like high double-wishbone front suspensions and common-rail diesel engine): it was sensationally successful on the market - awarded “Car of the Year” in 1998 - and on international race tracks taking many wins in the Touring category. The “166” replaced the “164” in 1998, and in 2000 “147” (also “Car of the Year”) replaced the “145” and was even more successful than its "big sister" the “156”, that in the meantime had complemented the range: the “GT”, a four-seat coupe, with a style concept reminiscent of the “Giulietta Sprint”, was introduced in the Autumn of 2003. In the “159” replaced the “156” in 2005, evolving its style and implementing new proportions, engine versions and body configurations: the "Brera” coupe was introduced in the same year, followed by the new “Spider” in 2006.

Again in 2006, Alfa Romeo introduced the long-awaited “8C Competizione”, a very high performance coupe with a remarkable design that made it an “instant classic”. With only 500 units made, this supercar was for collectors and a handful of lucky owners. It was joined by the “8C Spider” in 2008, which maintained the same mechanical features and performance as the coupe. The Alfa Romeo MiTo, a compact car with a sporty look, for young motorists and everyone who want a distinctive, performing car, was introduced the same year.

Now is the turn of the brand-new “Giulietta” with the aim of reviving the brand in one of the most important segments in Europe. In the centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automotive legend which was key in the history of Alfa Romeo: the Giulietta is a car that, in the fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time. The Alfa Romeo Style Centre has designed the new Giulietta, a five-door hatchback with an unmistakable Alfa Romeo look, capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads. This is the merit of the new "Compact" architecture. Using sophisticated suspension technical solutions, a dual pinion active steering, top-quality materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies, the Giulietta achieves excellent levels of on-board comfort, dynamic features and safety (both active and passive).

Turin, June 21, 2010

For updates on the rally and on how to take part in this extraordinary event are available at the web site www.alfisti.com.

Source: alfaromeopress.com

 

Alfa Giulietta – first drive

Andrew Brown visits Alfa’s test track at Balocco to sample the new Giulietta, including the 235bhp Cloverleaf version.

Before going on sale in left-hand drive form in Europe, Alfa Romeo gathered a range of Giuliettas at their Balocco test track and invited the motoring press to take a drive. All I had to do was walk up and say, “ I’ll have that one.” This was a 2.0 JTDm2 in gleaming white and Sports trim. The first impression is of a relatively compact car, both inside and out, although interior width and legroom are generous for this size of car and there is plenty of room for four or even five adults to sit in comfort.
Start-up is refined and the gears are selected with short-throw lever. A data/satnav screen tilts up at the top of the dashboard once the engine is turning. The whole interior feels quite plush and well equipped and I found it easy to adjust the seat and steering wheel to my preferred driving position.
We were not confined to the track so I exited the site and tried the car on the rural roads in the surrounding area. With diesel torque pushing the Giulietta along I was soon up to incautious speeds. The car sat four-square on the road and took the bends with precision, minimal roll and absolute security. The ride was good with no crash-bash or choppy pitching – better than the MiTo then. So the fun factor is high without the compromises normally associated with sporty suspension. Whilst the new 2 litre diesel engine has plenty of easy-to-use power, it makes no Alfa style noises at all - there was only the usual four cylinder diesel ‘patter’. Time for a petrol version then.
Back at the track I selected a 170bhp turbo petrol Multiair in dark blue. I had already tested the MiTo with this engine and was very impressed. Even with turbo and Multiair technology, real performance is to be had higher up the rev range compared to a diesel, which is to be expected. So it paid to hang on to the gears a bit longer. Progress was brisk. The Giulietta performed well in a refined way, but it is not a racer. The sure-footed handling maintained the fun factor though.
Back at base I tried a couple of lesser versions which were almost as much fun as the higher powered cars. But I really wanted to get my hands on a 1750, 235bhp Cloverleaf and managed to grab one in 8C style metallic red. Alfa did not want us to terrorise the locals with this car so we were confined to the track – which I did not mind at all.
The main circuit at Balocco has many challenging corners, a semi-banked sweeping curve and a long straight. I have driven this on a couple of previous visits and it takes a few laps to even start to get things right. Today, however, the Alfa management had incorporated a few artificial chicanes to slow us down and challenge the Giulietta’s handling. Also, we were not allowed to use the main straight, being channelled into the paddock at the end of each lap.
The Cloverleaf negotiated the track in a totally sure-footed way. Acceleration, braking and road holding are all up to expectations – in Dynamic mode. Apexes could be clipped with accuracy and there was plenty of grunt from the engine to fling the car out of corners. The electronics were very much in charge though and there was no tail-out fun to be had at all. The car just stuck four-square to the track with a momentary squeak from the front tyres when adhesion reached its limit. Understeer is incredibly well controlled so neutral handing is what you get. All very refined, but Alfa has decided that you can have just that much fun, and no more. A disappointment was the gear change. It was rubbery and baulky - not the slick switch-like shift you would expect with a performance car. Anyway, after each forced exit at the end of each lap I rejoined the track to have another go. I certainly was not getting bored.
There will be a full report in the June issue of the club magazine. In the meantime, I would suggest that the 170bhp Multiair Giulietta is the one to have.

ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA

Model in brief

Having made its world preview at the recent Geneva International Motor Show, the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta makes its debut today and, from May this year, will be marketed progressively on all the major markets, thus relaunching the brand in one of the most important segments in Europe.
In Alfa Romeo’s Centenary year, the name Giulietta is a tribute to an automobile and an Alfa Romeo legend. In the Fifties, the Giulietta caught the imagination of car enthusiasts throughout the world, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying its high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.

Now the Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a five-door hatchback with an evident Alfa Romeo appearance and capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday journeys. This is due to the new Compact platform which, thanks to the sophisticated technical solutions employed for the suspension, the dual pinion active steering, the sophisticated materials used and the manufacturing technologies implemented, allows the Giulietta to achieve exceptionally high standards both in terms of on-board comfort as well as its dynamic and safety features (active and passive).

New Giulietta

A new platform  to enhance road holding and agility in total comfort and safety

The Giulietta introduces an entirely new platform - called Compact - designed to satisfy the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety. It ensures both exceptional dynamic performance and high comfort levels, thanks to the refined technical solutions employed for the suspension, a new-generation steering system, a light and rigid structure created from materials such as aluminium and high-strength steels, and avant-garde manufacturing techniques.
This new platform will allow the Giulietta to accommodate the needs of all customers in this category, combining on-board comfort, functional interiors and generous boot space, with the dynamic qualities that belong to every Alfa Romeo. Furthermore, driving satisfaction and comfort can be adapted to meet every customer's specific needs thanks to the Alfa DNA selector, a device that customises the vehicle's behaviour to suit different road conditions and driving styles. The new platform of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to integrate the vehicle's different systems and exploit them to the full, thus emphasising the three set-up functions (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) available through the Alfa DNA selector. This device, fitted as standard on the entire range of the new model, is designed to modify the operating parameters of the engine, gearbox, steering system and Q2 electronic differential, in addition to the behaviour logic of the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC).


Sporty and comfortable, Italian style

The perfect blend of sportiness and style, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta redefines the Brand's technological standards and emotional values.
The front displays a brand new interpretation of the classic shield, embedded in the front bumper and suspended between the air vents. This is the starting point for the design of the entire car, which combines an energetic personality with a distinctly elegant form. The front headlights have DRL with LED technology and a day light function for maximum active safety.
Even the profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is brimming with personality, giving the impression of an agile and sturdy car. This is above all due to the side windows which recall the appearance of a coupé, emphasising the dynamism and fluidity of form, thanks also to the concealed rear door handles. The ribs on the sides of the vehicle seem to elongate the car while the clean lines which end at the rear accentuate the angular shape of the car's body.
The rear, like the front and side, features distinct styling which emphasises the feeling of a muscular car, firmly gripped onto the road surface. In addition, like the headlights, the innovative rear lights also use LED technology, not only for the sake of style but also preventive safety.
Lastly, the measurements of the new car amount to a compact and dynamic shape, while at the same time guaranteeing excellent comfort and a spacious boot (350 litres): it is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metres high and 1.80 metres wide, with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.


Advanced features for maximum wellbeing on board

Attention to detail and high quality materials used for interiors are, today as always, the most developed expression of Italian style. More specifically, the dominant concept in the interiors of the new model is lightness. The lines are clean and the dashboard develops horizontally. The seats are comfortable and their shape is designed to ensure maximum comfort during long journeys.
Thanks to the advanced ergonomics in the interior design, every switch is ideally located: the main ones are grouped together at the centre of the dashboard and feature the same design as those on the 8C Competizione.
The navigation system with pop-up display allows drivers to safely display the route or the mechanical operating parameters set by the Alfa DNA device without having to take their eyes off the road.
There are practical open storage compartments situated in various areas of the passenger compartment: in front of the gearbox, on the centre console and on the interior trim of the doors. There are closed storage compartments - depending on the version - on the top of the dashboard, under the dashboard opposite the front passenger (cooled with dual zone climate control) and in the front and rear armrests.


Innovative engines for a thrilling, environmentally-friendly drive

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees the highest levels of performance and technology through a range of engines that are state-of-the-art in terms of technology, performance levels and environmental-friendliness. At the time of its commercial launch, 4 Turbo engines will be available, all Euro 5 compliant and with a Start&Stop system to reduce consumption levels and emissions fitted as standard: two petrol versions (120 HP 1.4TB and 170 HP 1.4TB Multiair) and two diesels (105 HP 1.6 JTDM and 170 HP 2.0 JTDM, both second-generation MultiJet engines). The range is completed by the high performance 235 HP 1750 TBi with direct injection and scavenging control in combination with exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde interiors.

This latter version equipped with a 235 HP 1750 TBi engine perfectly represents the way in which Alfa Romeo offers the most in this segment. Not just a means of transport, but a vehicle that can really connect with the customer. There is strong acceleration thanks to high torque levels even at low revs, a smooth response that minimises gearbox use thanks to the flexibility typical of modern petrol engines, and an engine note that is engaging without ever becoming intrusive. In detail, the 1750 Turbo petrol engine boasts advanced technical solutions including direct fuel injection, dual continuously variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that gets rid of any turbo lag. The resulting performance is comparable to – or better than – that of many 3-litre engines while still delivering fuel consumption typical of a compact four cylinder unit. It should be noted that the specific power of 134 HP/litre is the highest in the world for a 4-cylinder unit installed in this category of vehicles, as well as being the highest ever achieved by an Alfa Romeo production engine. The specific torque too, totalling 194 Nm/litre, is the highest of all petrol engines in this category, while the maximum torque of 340 Nm, reached at just 1,900 revs, is excellent.

The range of engines available can accommodate the needs of all customers. First of all the 120 HP 1.4TB is the ideal engine for those in search of a car that can handle city traffic effortlessly while keeping running costs to a minimum. The turbo engine guarantees prompt response even at low revs (maximum torque is achieved at just 1,750 revs) while Start&Stop, in the city, makes it possible to cut consumption and harmful emission levels drastically, without compromising comfort and on-board safety.

The 170 HP 1.4 TB Multiair engine is an amalgam of technology, which blends high performance levels with the lowest emissions and fuel consumption levels in its class for petrol engines of this power rating. It is a brilliant and flexible engine, with a maximum torque of a generous 250 Nm (when set to Dynamic), fitted with a Start&Stop system and with fuel consumption and emission levels resembling a diesel engine more than a petrol one with this power rating (4.6 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle and 134 g/km of CO2 emissions). The combination of this engine with the new platform places the Giulietta at the top of its segment both for its dynamic qualities as well as comfort and practicality during everyday use.
The 105 HP 1.6 JTDM is a flexible and economical diesel engine that will surprise customers due to its prompt response (in Dynamic mode, max. torque is a generous 320 Nm at just 1,750 revs) combined with extremely low fuel consumption (in the extra-urban cycle, it is just 3.7 l/100 km). This is possible thanks to the combination of second-generation MultiJet technology and the Start&Stop system. Consequently, it is an engine dedicated to all those in search of a car with character and a distinctive style, affording the typical agility and handling of an Alfa Romeo yet able to combine the latter with limited running costs.
For customers who use the car mostly on the motorway or who demand the maximum performance levels from a diesel engine, Alfa Romeo suggests the 170 HP 2.0 JTDM. Again, it is an amalgam of technology which combines second-generation MultiJet technology with the Start&Stop system. The result is a vehicle with the highest performance levels of its segment, extremely flexible driving (with the dna selector set to Dynamic mode, the available torque at 1,750 revs is a generous 350 Nm), among the lowest fuel consumption and emission levels in its category for cars with this power rating (124 g/km of CO2 and 4.1 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle). Thanks to the exceptional qualities of the new compact platform, this version is able to blend fantastic dynamic and motoring performance levels with the highest comfort and practicality in its segment.

All the engines are combined with a state-of-the-art manual 6-speed gearbox belonging to the three axle transmission family, which can withstand and transmit high maximum torque values. Subsequently, the Multiair and 170 HP 2.0 JTDM engines will also be combined with an innovative dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Segment-leading safety, comfort and dynamic behaviour

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to achieve the highest Euro NCAP safety rating to offer total protection for both driver and passengers. In addition, the new platform was devised to guarantee the utmost interaction of the systems in charge of controlling the vehicle dynamics.

All this is controlled by the real ‘brain’ of the vehicle, namely the Alfa dna device, which manages all the sophisticated electronic devices for dynamic vehicle control: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), Dual Pinion Active Steering, the Q2 electronic differential, the response and torque curve of the engine, the braking system with pre-fill function. All these systems guarantee genuine Alfa Romeo driving safety, vehicle traction and performance.

The new compact platform, thanks to the sophisticated technical solutions employed for the suspension and the materials used, such as high-strength steels, aluminium, magnesium and xenoy, can accommodate the needs of the most demanding customers in terms of on-board comfort and quiet running, placing the Giulietta at the top of its category also in terms of the everyday practicality of the vehicle.

Extensive range

Devised to cater for the different needs of segment C car drivers in pursuit of driving satisfaction and comfort, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is available in two versions (Progression and Distinctive), along with two customisations (Sport Pack and Premium Pack).

All the devices linked to active and passive safety are fitted as standard on the entire range. The Progression version comes with the Alfa dna system (with Q2 electronic differential and DST), VDC (including ASR and hill holder), 6 airbags, front seat belts with dual pretensioners and front seats with anti-whiplash system as standard. The standard equipment also includes manual climate control, 16’’ wheels, front and rear electric windows, trip computer, stereo system with dual tuner radio, 6 speakers and MP3 CD player. The latter version (Distinctive) offers the following in addition to the standard equipment of the former: 16" alloy wheels, dual zone automatic climate control, leather steering wheel with radio controls, front armrest with storage compartment, cruise control, fog lights, reconfigurable control panel, seats upholstered in Competizione fabric, front armrest, and a stylish chromed insert (chrome line) framing the side windows. The dashboard on the Distinctive version is also distinguished by a stylish insert painted in magnesium grey or, alternatively, in Ghiaccio white, Alfa Red as well as in brushed burnished aluminium.

Customers can further customise their Giulietta with two specific Packs (Sport and Premium). The first pack is designed to highlight the sporty character of the vehicle with specific features which improve the already excellent handling of the car and includes 17’’or 18’’ alloy wheels, side skirts, sports pedals, sports seats with leather and microfibre fabric upholstery, brushed burnished aluminium dashboard insert, burnished headlight frames and dark interiors (black ceiling and pillar lining).

For customers in search of even more technological and complete on-board equipment, the Premium Pack includes bi-xenon lights with AFS function, the Blue&Me system with Bluetooth function, USB port and MP3 player, radio/mobile phone controls on steering wheel, rear parking sensors, rain-dusk-humidity sensors, electrically folding door mirrors and an electrochromic rear-view mirror.

To customise their Giulietta, customers can also choose from the list of options available, including a large panoramic sunroof, navigation system with maps and pop-up display and a Bose® Hi-fi. In addition, the Blue&Me–TomTom system is also available, which adds navigation functions to the functions of the Blue&Me® thanks to the TomTom portable navigation system which is perfectly integrated with the vehicle's existing systems thanks to a Bluetooth® interface. The TomTom portable navigation system is positioned on the dashboard using a support designed to guarantee maximum safety in the event of impact and complete integration with the vehicle's other systems and improved ergonomics in everyday use.

There is also a special trim specification dedicated to the version fitted with the 235 HP 1750 TBi engine. It's called the Quadrifoglio Verde (four-leafed clover), a legendary brand which has competed on tracks all over the world. Only available on this engine type, this special version is distinguished by its sporty lowered ride height (15 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear), 17’’ wheels (18’’ as an optional), an enhanced braking system with calipers painted Alfa red, as well as sporty interiors which include sporty leather and microfibre seats. All designed to guarantee the best in driving pleasure and segment-leading active and passive safety. It offers reduced fuel consumption for this power rating; the “Quadrifoglio Verde” is thus reinterpreted for today, combining the utmost driving pleasure with greater environmental awareness for eco-conscious and environmentally-friendly sportiness.

Source: alfaromeopress.com

 

 

ALFA ROMEO AT THE 80TH INTERNATIONAL GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

The Giulietta is the undisputed star of the booth and of the Alfa Romeo Centenary. With the new car - capable of expressing both great agility over the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads – the Brand continues in its custom of presenting all its new products and features in a world preview on the occasion of the Geneva Motor Show. Indeed, after the Alfa 159 and the Alfa Brera in 2005, the Alfa 159 Sportwagon, the Alfa Spider in 2006 and the Alfa 8C Spider in 2008, now is the time to present the Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta

 

The Giulietta is a five-door hatchback, with an evident Alfa Romeo appearance, capable of expressing both great agility over the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads. This is thanks to the new "Compact" architecture which, thanks to the refined technical solutions employed for the suspension, the dual pinion active steering, the fine materials used and the manufacturing technologies implemented, allows the Giulietta to achieve excellent levels both in terms of on-board comfort as well as its dynamic and safety features (active and passive). From May this year, the model will be on sale progressively on all the major markets, while visitors of the Geneva Motor Show will be able to admire five different models: two Quadrifoglio Verde versions fitted with the 235 HP 1750 TBi, two Distinctive versions with 170 HP 2.0 JTDM and a Distinctive version fitted with the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol. The name of the new car is an obvious tribute to the mythical Giulietta which, in the Fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.

The booth will also include a charming historic model to pay homage to the time-honoured history of Alfa Romeo: the 24 HP, the brand's very first vehicle, produced between 1910 and 1920 which was extremely popular thanks to its mechanical features, performance levels and driving comfort.

The spotlight will also be on the Alfa Romeo MiTo which will be showing off two highly interesting novelties in Geneva: “Alfa TCT” and "Blue&Me–TomTom". The first new feature is an automatic dual dry clutch transmission which guarantees driving comfort and a sporty feeling well above those offered by conventional automatic transmissions, but improved efficiency and lower consumption levels. On the Alfa Mito, the new device is combined with the Start&Stop system in order to minimise consumption levels and CO2 emissions. In addition, the technological qualities of the Alfa Romeo MiTo are further enhanced by the second novelty to be presented at the Geneva Motor Show: namely, “Blue&Me–TomTom”, the latest version of the Blue&Me system. It is a fully integrated infotainment system whose practical colour touch-screen allows you to manage phone calls, satellite navigation and all the driving information you need. The device is the result of a partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles and TomTom, the European leader in portable navigation systems, and integrates with the other car’s systems thanks to the Blue&Me system developed with Magneti Marelli.

The MiTo is shown in two versions at the Motor Show: a Distinctive 135 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol (fitted with “Alfa TCT” automatic transmission and the “Blue&Me–TomTom” portable satellite navigation system) and an exclusive MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde fitted with the powerful 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol, an historical symbol of the brand, which now represents a new kind of sportiness that combines maximum driving pleasure with improved environmental qualities. Such as the outstanding weight/power ratio (6.7 kg/HP), guaranteeing record-breaking agility, plus an exceptional specific power of 124 HP/litre, a real first for this category. In addition, as far as the typical reduction in emissions and fuel consumption of downsizing is concerned, the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol records 139 g/km of CO2 and 4.8 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle: figures you might expect from an economy car rather than a compact sports car that goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just over seven seconds.

In addition, the Swiss event would not have been complete without an area dedicated to the charming Alfa 8C Spider, the supercar designed at the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile and produced in a Limited Edition (of just 500 models). Its fully carbon fibre exterior embodies perfectly Alfa Romeo's motoring and mechanical excellence. Fitted with the mighty 4.7 litre 8 cylinder engine that develops 450 HP, teamed - thanks to transaxle architecture - with a 6-speed sequential manual gearbox, the Alfa 8C Spider immediately turns heads due to its unmistakable Italian elegance, an absolutely unique and unrepeatable style that promises the satisfaction of a sporty drive with full respect for Alfa Romeo tradition. Emphasis must be place on the important and excellent Brembo carbon ceramic brakes (CCM) braking system fitted as standard. This solution ensures powerful and effective braking even when used more intensely as well as further reducing the non-suspended mass, improving the dynamic vehicle control and driving comfort of this prestigious supercar.

In short, Alfa Romeo returns to the Geneva International Motor Show with a multitude of auto innovations, in a spectacular booth conceived as an ideal blend of design and technology, sportiness and sophisticated styling.

Lastly, brochures and customised totems at the booth will be introducing visitors to the products of FGA Capital, a joint venture of Fiat Group Automobiles and Crédit Agricole specialised in the automotive segment. The finance company will be operative in Italy and across Europe with a sole mission: supporting the sales of all Fiat Group Automobiles brand vehicles by offering innovative financial products with high added value services targeted to the dealership network, private customers and companies.

Source: alfaromeopress.com

 

STILE BERTONE'S GENEVA BOUND ALFA ROMEO CONCEPT BREAKS COVER

Following a torrid two year absence during which the famous Bertone name very nearly vanished, the Italian design house will be back in Geneva next month where it will unveil a stunning new concept Alfa Romeo sports car, dubbed the Pandion. Not only is Bertone heading back to the Swiss Palexpo but Lilli Bertone, widow of Nuccio, is firmly back in the driving seat having wrested back control of failed Gruppo Bertone's design division, Stile Bertone. It all adds up too a remarkable turnaround in fortunes although the contract manufacturing arm, which caused Bertone to be brought to its knees, has since been sold off to Fiat Group.

Leading Italian design houses Pininfarina and Stile Bertone, along with Giorgetto Giugiaro, are all showing an Alfa Romeo-based concept car on the occasion of the Geneva Motor Show to tie in with Alfa Romeo's centenary. The former two are presenting a spider and coupé respectively, both based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione sports car, while the latter will unveil a berlina concept based on the new C-segment Giulietta which will also debut in Geneva.

For Bertone this will be the second project it has carried out focused on the underpinnings and mechanicals of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione sports car, just as two years ago it created the B.A.T. 11 concept, a modern-day continuation of the historically-admired Alfa Romeo-themed B.A.T. concept cars, around the same platform and mechanicals. That car was in fact born at the low point of Bertone's fortunes when it was unable to afford a stand after more than half a century of unbroken appearances at the Swiss motor show and instead the distinctive B.A.T. 11 was unveiled at the AutoDeignNight which took place during the show in downtown Geneva. Stile Bertone, which was founded in 1972 by Nuccio Bertone and is based in Caprie, just a few kilometres from Turin heading into the Susa Valley, was then split away from the rump of the Gruppo Bertone business which was at the time collapsing under the loss of all its business by the contract manufacturing division, and the design arm was temporarily put into the hands of Marie-Jeanette Bertone.

However Lilli Bertone, Nuccio's widow, is now firmly back in charge of Stile Bertone having fought hard over the last two years to save the family business and she has come out on top of a bitter feud with her two daughters, Marie-Jeanne and Barbara. With the contract manufacturing facilities at Grugliasco having now been sold off by the administrators to the Fiat Group, Stile Bertone, with its long and fabulous history, is the key surviving element of the almost century old Italian design and engineering house. "Back to Geneva with a world première," says Lilli proudly, a lady who has come a long way since Bertone last showed its wares in Geneva in 2007. The new Alfa Romeo Pandion concept by Bertone follows on from the design house's last work for Alfa Romeo, the pretty GT Coupé, which is still in production, albeit in small numbers.

The new Pandion concept car is the first work from the pen of Stile Bertone's new Design and Style Director Mike Robinson. "After the sale to Fiat Auto of the production facilities in Grugliasco, ensuring the employment of all employees, we have regained full possession of the brand that was developed by Nuccio in person," says Lilli. "We're back, indeed we are on track to launch our centennial with a completely new management team and be a leading services company that is rapidly returning to its historic role as a trend setter worldwide. These are not just words," she adds, "as evidenced by the car [to be] presented in Geneva, a workshop for technology and style that expresses these ideas."

The Alfa Romeo Pandion concept contains many elements of Bertone's recent design language ably combined with the fresh sheet of paper that comes from two years of upheaval and the influx of new staff. The front end continues the recent theme of enlarging the Alfa Romeo "heart" in a return to the brand's famous past. The sweeping glasshouse which matches the rise and fall of the side glass that stretches from wheel-to-wheel brings both historic and bold new thinking to the equation and - along with the use of steel - builds on Bertone's highly-acclaimed Panda-based two-seat "Barchetta" concept which was created for the Geneva Motor Show in 2007 to celebrate the designer's 95th anniversary. Inside elements of the Barchetta's clean, simple and tiny cabin and dashboard are also much in evidence. The rakish design of the Pandion also points towards the Mantide, the dramatic and futuristic concept car styled by ex-Pininfarina design chief Jason Castriota last year during a shortly period when Stile Bertone was under the leadership of Marie-Jeanne Bertone. The rear end is a new departure for Bertone, it appears very busy in images and mildly reminiscent of Fiat Brazil's recent FCC II 'buggy' concept.

 

Source: Italiaspeed

 

 

MITO DESTROYS SPACE INVADERS ON TV RETURN

In a visual twist on the classic Space Invaders arcade game, Alfa Romeo returns to television screens on Friday February 12 to launch its new MiTo MultiAir models.

The Italian sporting marque’s latest advert has been created to promote its innovative MultiAir engine line-up, which promises increased fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions while considerably enhancing performance.

The intergalactic ‘fix’ of retro-gaming sees an Alfa MiTo skilfully eliminating the ‘invaders’ – which in this case are fuel pumps and toxic barrels – with lasers fired from its headlights.

The MultiAir range introduces the 1.4-litre 135 bhp Alfa MiTo Lusso and Veloce as well as the 170 bhp 1.4 Alfa MiTo Cloverleaf model complete with active suspension. All versions include Start&Stop technology.

Capable of reaching 62mph from a standing start in just 7.5 seconds, the range-topping Alfa MiTo Cloverleaf has a top speed of 136mph and a striking combined cycle official fuel economy figure of 47.1 mpg. These high-tech MultiAir engines also produce amongst the lowest CO2 levels of all Alfa MiTo petrol models.

Prices for the Alfa MiTo MultiAir models start at £15,165 through to £17,895 for the top-of-the-range Cloverleaf. To find out more about MiTo MultiAir and the full Alfa Romeo range please visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk

Source: Newspress

 

 

ALFA ROMEO UK ANNOUNCES MITO MULTIAIR PRICES

Alfa Romeo UK has just announced pricing of its revolutionary MultiAir engined MiTo range, set to arrive here in spring 2010. From launch, two engine versions will become available – the 135 bhp 1.4 Turbo, and the top-of-the-range 170 bhp 1.4 Turbo which will carry the iconic Alfa Cloverleaf badge.

Available to order through the Alfa Romeo UK dealer network from early January 2010, the MiTo’s MultiAir engine range marks the next technological step in the vehicle’s already successful life – promising lower emissions and fuel consumption together with higher performance and greater driving pleasure – with Active Suspension as standard on the 170bhp Cloverleaf model.

Total 'On The Road' Prices:
1.4 MultiAir TB 135 bhp Lusso £15,165
1.4 MultiAir TB 135 bhp Veloce £16,135
1.4 MultiAir TB 170 bhp Cloverleaf £17,895.00

 

ALFA 8C SPIDER
MOST BEAUTIFUL CAR OF THE YEAR

Just in case there was ever any doubt, Alfa Romeo’s stunning Alfa 8C Spider supercar has been officially named as the Most Beautiful Car of the Year by Top Gear magazine.

Judged by a Top Gear panel consisting of TV, magazine and online teams – spanning 24 international editions - the awards recognise the most innovative and exciting cars to be launched over the past 12 months.

Described as ‘perfection’ by Top Gear, the 8C Spider’s good looks are more than skin deep. A responsive 4.7litre V8 engine produces an awesome 450BHP which is channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels, producing enough power to launch its occupants from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 181mph.

UK Brand Communications Manager, Damien Dally, said: “There’s no doubt that the 8C Spider is a sensational supercar but to have the recognition of the Top Gear panel is a perfect way to end the year.”

Limited to a production run of just 500 examples, 35 Alfa 8C Spiders are destined for the UK, with most of them sold before you could say “bellissima”. Valued at around £174,000 the chance of owning an example remains ultra exclusive, however the latest models in Alfa Romeo’s line up have taken inspiration from the Alfa 8C Competizione and Spider – such as the sporty compact Alfa MiTo and 2010’s Alfa Giulietta.

Source: Newspress

MARCHIONNE IS RIGHT ON LANCIA, WRONG ON ALFA

Sergio Marchionne says that Lancia models from 2011 could be badged Chryslers in most European markets, possibly even in Italy.
Marchionne, who heads both Fiat S.p.A. and Chrysler Group, also says he might freeze investments in money-losing Alfa Romeo after the launch of the Giulietta in 2010.
I think Marchionne is right on Lancia -- sadly -- but very wrong on Alfa. I say that having owned three Lancias but just one Alfa.
When Lancia enthusiasts -- called Lancisti here in Italy -- see a Chrysler 300C with some sort of Lancia rebadging in a few year's time, they will be up in arms, but the global auto industry has simply no more room for a largely domestic brand like Lancia.
Last year, Italians bought 93,300 Lancias and just 4,600 Chryslers. But in the rest of Europe, Chrysler outsold Lancia by almost a 20 percent margin, or 24,400 to 20,600 units.
Herbert Demel, Marchionne's predecessor as Fiat Auto CEO, wanted to scrap Lancia. Current Lancia CEO Olivier Francois has kept the brand alive the past four years with little money and many bright ideas but the Fiat-Chrysler alliance has changed the perspective.
Fiat-Chrysler cannot afford to have two near-premium niche brands in Europe. Concentrating on Chrysler is sad for true Lancisti, but an understandable business decision.
Alfa's situation is more complicated.
The brand is losing money so it has little cash to invest in future products. But its aging product lineup means that Alfa's declining sales have to be propped up with incentives -- leading to higher losses.
Alfa's dilemma
During Marchionne's tenure -- for financial and strategic reasons -- Alfa has not been given the weapons it was promised to boost its sales.
The Giulietta will replace the 147 next spring, a year later than planned. The 166 brand flagship was discontinued in early 2007 and the C-Xover crossover, promised for a decade and planned to launch early next year, has been put on hold again.
Marchionne will decide by next spring whether Alfa will use Chrysler platforms to replace the aging Alfa 159, the 166 and to finally create a crossover or whether to freeze all new products, which will leave Alfa with only the MiTo and Giulietta as fresh products.
Canceling new products would kill Alfa in just a few years, so Marchionne would do better to sell the brand before it goes into an agonizing decline.
Fiat would get more money for the brand while is still alive. Even with a great heritage, a dead brand is worth almost nothing.
Marchionne would find it hard to justify killing two venerable Italian brands at the same time.
Maybe a cash-rich, globally ambitious Chinese carmaker might like to have a brand like Alfa.

Source: Automotive News Europe

 

 

ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA: WORLD PREVIEW

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show. Sales of the new model will start in spring and be gradually extended to all the major markets. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is expected to give new impetus to the brand in one of Europe's most important segments.

 

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta

In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. The Giulietta is a car that, in the fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.

The Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a sports car capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads.

A new architecture for enhancing road hold and agility in total comfort and safety

Meet the new Alfa Romeo, a compact created to appeal to customers who seek top dynamic performance and those who are looking for a distinctive style and a high level of comfort.

The Giulietta has brand-new architecture, designed to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers in terms of road holding, agility and safety. Its excellent dynamic performance and great comfort are the result of refined technical solutions implemented in the suspensions, a next-generation steering system, a rigid yet light structure made of aluminium and high-strength steel, and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.

Alfa DNA, a device which customises behaviour of the car according to different driving styles and road conditions, can adapt the new Alfa Romeo to the needs of each individual driver to enhance driving pleasure and comfort. The new architecture of the Alfa Giulietta was designed to integrate and enhance all onboard systems. Three set-ups (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) are available and can be selected using the Alfa DNA. This device - standard across the entire range of the new model - modifies the operating parameters of the engine, of the steering system, and of the Q2 electronic differential, in addition to fine-tuning the stability control system (VDC) behavioural logics.

Italian style sportiness and comfort

Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo's new direction in style and technology - an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand's glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.

The front end is developed around a “trilobe shape” and features a brand-new interpretation of the classic Alfa grille, set into the front bumper and suspended between the two air intakes. The entire car develops from here to combine a lively personality with an elegant form. The front headlamps implement LED technology and a Daytime Running Lights (DRL) function for maximum active safety.

The profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is rich in personality and confers the appearance of an agile, solid model. This is above all the result of the coupé shaped side windows, which highlight dynamic and streamlined shape, and of the concealed rear handles. The side ribbing adds to the car's slender look, while the taut lines closing in on the rear end accentuate the "wedge" shape of the body.

The style of the rear end, like that of the front and the side, is strong and consolidates the impression of a muscular car, firmly gripped to the road. Like the headlamps, the rear light clusters implement LED technology, to the advantage of preventive safety, in addition to good looks.

The interior design is taut and light: a horizontally developed dashboard with aluminium element accents and rocker controls which explicitly recall the 8C Competizione. Painstaking attention to detail and the high quality of the materials used are the most advanced expression of Italian style.

Finally, the dimensions of the new car give a compact, dynamic shape combined with excellent roominess and a capacious boot (350 litres): the car is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metre high and 1.80 metres wide with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.

Innovative engines for exciting, environmentally friendly driving

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees top level performance and next-generation technology in terms of technical solutions, performance and environmental friendliness. Four Turbo engines will be available at launch, all Euro 5 compliant and fitted with a standard “Start&Stop” system for reducing consumption and emissions: two petrol engines (1.4TB - 120 HP and 1.4TB MultiAir - 170 HP) and two diesel engines (1.6 JTDM - 105 HP and 2.0 JTDM - 170 HP, both belonging to the second generation of JTDM engines). Finally, the range is completed with the lively 1750 TBi - 235 HP with an exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde configuration.

Safety and dynamic behaviour at the top of the segment

Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to obtain the maximum Euro NCAP rating in order to offer total protection to driver and passengers. Furthermore, suspension, steering and braking system are designed to be perfectly balanced even during extreme manoeuvres.

Finally, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is fitted with the most sophisticated electronic devices for dynamic control as standard: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), DST (Dynamic Steering Torque), Q2 electronic differential and Alfa DNA selector. All these systems guarantee driving safety, dynamism and performance in the best Alfa Romeo tradition.

Turin, 2nd December 2009

Source: alfaromeopress.com

 

 

ALFA ROMEO’S FUTURE UNDER REVIEW

The Alfa Romeo brand's future has been put under review by Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.

With Alfa sales dropping and the brand losing money, Marchionne is weighing up how to refresh Alfa's line-up using Chrysler platforms.

"We need to work a lot harder on Alfa to make an intelligent decision that effectively preserves the highest possible value to Fiat," Marchionne told Automotive News Europe.

Marchionne also stressed the need to adopt - and stick to - a long-term strategy with Alfa, in order to turn it into a profitable company, citing the company's numerous reinventions in recent years.

"We need to stop doing it. You cannot be a newborn Christian every four years. It's the same religion, eventually you need to own a religion and carry it to conclusion," said Marchionne.

Outlining Alfa's options, Marchionne said Alfa could replace the 159 and 166 with saloons built in North America on Chrysler platforms, but unique to Alfa and sold by Alfa worldwide.

"Certainly the availability of D and E segment (platforms) in the United States which are capable of being Alfa Romeoized is there. We need to look at the economics of that opportunity," Marchionne said.

Alternatively, investment in the brand could be frozen following the launch of the 147 replacement, which is now expected to be called the Giulietta.

That would leave Alfa with the Giulietta and the Mito as its only fresh models, with the 159, Brera Coupe, Spider and GT coupe continuing to be sold.

Last year, Alfa sold 103,000 new cars compared with 203,000 in 2000. The brand has lost between 200 million (£182m) and 400 million euros (£364m) a year in the past 10 years, according to reports.

Marchionne - who also ruled out merging Alfa and Dodge - is expected to announce the future of Alfa in February or March next year.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

 

 

NEW RANGE OF SERVICE PLANS ROLLED OUT FOR

ALFA ROMEO

A complete range of comprehensive service plans for Alfa Romeo – which include all parts and labour costs associated with vehicle servicing, while allowing customers to spread the servicing charges – has been launched by Fiat Group Automobiles UK.

Alfa Romeo Service Plans are designed to present an easy way for owners to budget for their car servicing requirements by removing the need to pay for work in one go. Instead it allows for the cost to be spread out over a fixed term in monthly, interest-free payments.

The Plans are flexible and costs depend on how many services are required and the customer’s anticipated annual mileage. Once Alfa Romeo has this information, a monthly cost can be supplied. Currently, a customer with a diesel Alfa MiTo with air conditioning could buy a three year, 31,500-mile plan for less than £15 a month.

All Alfa models are eligible for the Plan which provides an official service from Alfa-trained technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, using original Alfa parts. This allows the car’s service book to be officially stamped.

As well as standard service intervals, Value Service Plans are available for low mileage users and for older (more than three years) vehicles.

The scheme also offers a courtesy car or local collection/delivery service, free wash and vacuum and 10 per cent off all Alfa Romeo accessories.

“This is an excellent way to look after your Alfa the way you want it looked after, and without having to find the full cost of the service each time you book it in,” says Rob Calver, parts and services director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK.

“The simple monthly payments make the scheme easier to budget for, providing peace of mind to our customers in a very convenient way. Additionally, a car with a fully stamped service history commands a higher price at the time of resale.”

Source: Alfa Romeo Press

 

GOODWOOD ANNOUNCES THE 2010 FESTIVAL OF SPEED THEME: ‘VIVA VELOCE! – THE PASSION FOR SPEED’

The Earl of March has now confirmed the theme of the 2010 Goodwood Festival of Speed – provisionally to be held on 2-4 July 2010 – as ‘Viva Veloce! – The Passion for Speed’. This theme celebrates Italy’s all-consuming fascination with motor racing, and its global influence on the sport. From Alfa Romeo to MV Agusta, Ascari to Agostini, and Monza to the Mille Miglia, Italians have raced with breathtaking fervour, inspiring desire and devotion that transcends national identity.

Italian DNA runs through many of the sport’s most memorable and passionate performances. Whether it’s Fangio and Wimille dominating the immediate post-war years in Alfa Romeos, Moss and Behra battling against the odds in Maseratis, Villeneuve and Schumacher’s towering achievements in Ferraris, Toivonen and Kankkunen blasting through the forests in Lancias, or Surtees and Hailwood sweeping all before them on MV Agustas, competitors from many nations have shared in Italy’s glory.

Equally, many legendary Italian motor sport heroes took on their countrymen in non-Italian machinery, such as Nuvolari and Varzi in German Silver Arrows, Agostini and Rossi rising to new heights on Yamahas, Mercedes-Benz conquering the Mille Miglia, and Porsche making the Targa Florio its own. The 2010 Festival of Speed will honour the cars, motorcycles, drivers and riders that raced with unbridled Latin zeal, and the legendary feats they achieved, with a particular emphasis on the centenary of one of Italy’s most celebrated marques – Alfa Romeo.

Running alongside the 2010 Festival central theme, Goodwood will also celebrate 60 years of the Formula One World Championship, with a gathering of cars and drivers that have shaped the history of motor sport’s most glamorous series. The 60th anniversary of the epic Carrera Panamericana road race, and 50 years since the RAC Rally took to the forests for the first time, will both be marked in true Goodwood style too.

Also in action for 2010 will be a dazzling array of cars and motorcycles from a huge variety of disciplines, enhancing the Festival’s reputation for showcasing not only the world’s most famous stars, but also its lesser known gems. Tackling the famous 1.16 mile Goodwood hillclimb on two-wheels and four will be everything from early Grand Prix and endurance machines, to off-road and contemporary racers.

Complementing the overall Festival of Speed theme will be a host of other attractions at the world’s greatest celebration of motoring. Aside from getting close to the action-packed hillclimb and paddocks, Festival-goers will be able to relish some of the most stylish vehicles ever designed at the Cartier ‘Style et Luxe’ concours d’elegance, glimpse into the future of personal transportation at the BP Ultimate FoS-TECH technology pavilion, see many of motor sport’s famous faces up close, swoon at the mouth-watering display of supercars in the world’s finest moving motor show, witness the exciting sideways action on the Forest Rally Stage and become a part of the action at the off-road activity fields and Junior Festival of Speed.

Goodwood Festival of Speed founder, Lord March says: ‘It will be fabulous to have so many great cars and drivers here at Goodwood to celebrate our Italian-flavoured Viva Veloce! theme for 2010. I look forward with much anticipation to seeing some of the greatest drivers, riders and machines in action.’

The provisional date for next year’s Festival of Speed is 2-4 July 2010.

To order advance tickets for the 2010 Festival, please contact the Ticket Hotline:
Telephone: +44 1243 755055
Fax: +44 1243 755058
Email: bookings@goodwood.com
Book online at: www.goodwood.com

 

Source: Newspress

 

 

 

ALFA ROMEO TOPS SEPTEMBER SALES

Alfa Romeo’s sales resurgence in the UK continued unabated during September, with the Italian sporting car manufacturer recording one of the highest year-to-date increases of any brand, and among the highest percentage increase for the new registration month.

In an industry badly affected by the recession, Alfa Romeo recorded a remarkable 148.5% rise in 59 plate registrations for the month, to deliver nearly 2,000 new cars to UK customers.

These figures continue the Italian marque’s upward trend, with more than 7,135 new Alfa Romeos sold here in the year-to-date, up 40.4% on the same period last year.

The Alfa MiTo – the marque’s new sporty compact model – leads the way with sales, supported by the Alfa 159, Brera and Spider which have all contributed positively to the brand’s success.

Alfa Romeo UK Sales Director, Andrew Sproston says: “This is great news for all concerned. Our growth is in-line with the expectations and objectives we set out at the beginning of the year.

“The hard work and investment we have put into the restructure of this iconic brand is now starting to pay off, and has played a vital part in our improved sales. Across the board, Alfa Romeo is returning to its rightful position as a leading quality brand, and customers are taking note. Built up over the past few years, our new product range has been complemented by our improved dealer network, better training and servicing, and dedicated attention to customer care.”

Not only has the Italian sporting car brand recorded one of the largest month-to-date percentage increases in the UK market, Alfa Romeo is one of just three manufacturers to record an overall rise in sales during 2009 – an even more impressive achievement when the current economic climate is taken into consideration.

In September, Alfa Romeo’s market share was 0.54%, more than double (125% increase) its presence in the UK car market compared to September last year.

Source: Alfa Romeo Press

 

 

 

ALFA ROMEO AT THE 63rd FRANKFURT INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Alfa Romeo is back at the Frankfurt International Motor Show with world premieres and models currently in production, highlighting the uniqueness of the brand in the global car industry.

The star of the show is the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde - an exclusive version with a powerful 170 hp 1.4 MultiAir TBi which will be brought to market after the launch of the other MultiAir engines.
Once a symbol of some of Alfa Romeo's sportiest cars, the “Quadrifoglio Verde” (four-leaf clover) now represents a new kind of sportiness that combines maximum driving pleasure with improved environmental qualities. This is shown by its outstanding weight/power ratio (6.7 kg/hp), ensuring top-class agility, and an exceptional category-leading specific power of 124 hp/litre. In addition, as far as the typical reduction in emissions and fuel consumption of downsizing is concerned, the 170 hp 1.4 MultiAir TBi records 139 g/km of CO2 and 4.8 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle: figures you might expect from an economy car rather than a compact sports car that goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just over seven seconds.

Alongside the main attraction, the rest of the Alfa Romeo range will also be on display: the MiTo, the Brera, the Spider, the 159 (saloon and Sportwagon) and the 8C Competizione Coupé and Spider supercars. The cars on display feature the latest Alfa Romeo engine technology: the revolutionary 135 hp MultiAir 1.4 TBi, the powerful 200 hp 1750 TBi and the brilliant 170 hp 2.0 JTDm.

Source: Fiat Group Automobiles Press

 

 

 

 

NEW ENGINES AND TRIM LEVELS FOR ALFA 159 RANGE
MORE POWER, MORE MPG, LOWER EMISSIONS

 

 

 

Alfa Romeo, has just introduced two brand new Euro 5-compliant engines for the Alfa 159 range - the 1750 TBi and the 2.0 JTDM. Both theAlfa Brera and Alfa Spider will benefit from these powerplants later in the year.

These two new high technology petrol and diesel engines will complement existing petrol and diesel units in the 159 range and introduce a combination of increased torque and power with lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency.

1750i 200 BHP TURBO PETROL ENGINE
The new Alfa Romeo 159 1750 TBi embodies a long heritage of motoring excellence, taking its name from its successful saloon ancestor, the Alfa 1750 Berlina. Alfa Romeo’s new, lightweight, variable valve timing, direct injection turbocharged engine develops an impressive 200 bhp along with 320 Nm of torque to bring new levels of drivability to the Alfa 159 range.

Perfectly complementing the current engine line-up, the new 16-valve, twin overhead camshaft 1742 cc petrol unit brings keen fuel efficiency to Alfa 159 Saloon and Sportwagon versions, along with lower CO2 emissions, down to 189 g/km – resulting in a six-band drop in company car BIK taxation compared to the older 2.2 JTS engine.

Significantly, through a process known as ‘scavenging’, the maximum torque of Alfa Romeo’s new petrol engine is achieved at just 1400 rpm – a little more than tickover speed – with maximum power reached between 4750 and 5500 rpm.

 

From a standstill, the 1750 TBi Alfa 159 Saloon can reach the 0 - 62 mph benchmark in 7.7 seconds, before toppinout at 147 mph. However it is the flexibility of the

From a standstill, the 1750 TBi Alfa 159 Saloon can reach the 0 - 62 mph benchmark in 7.7 seconds, before topping out at 147 mph. However it is the flexibility of the in-gear acceleration that sets the engine apart from its competitors; with 25 - 62 mph in fifth gear achievable in 11.5 seconds and 37 – 62 mph in sixth gear reached in just 8.9 seconds – this translates, in real world driving, to a more sporting driver experience consistent with a ‘flat’ torque curve and a constant delivery of power – perfect for confident overtaking and long distance driving.

In addition, the 1750 TBi version includes a mileage extension to 21,000 miles between routine maintenance intervals.

2.0 JTDM 170 BHP DIESEL ENGINE
Given that Alfa Romeo introduced common rail diesel technology more than 10 years ago on the Alfa 156, it should come as little surprise that it has now developed a new diesel unit that brings higher power and torque values, yet, at the same time, increases fuel efficiency and lowers CO2 emissions.

Alfa’s new 2.0 JTDM powerplant develops 170 bhp available at just 4,000 rpm, and its advanced multijet technology means that this new 2.0 JTDM unit delivers its maximum torque of 360 Nm between just 1750 rpm and 2500 rpm.

Significantly, the new 2.0 JTDM powered Alfa 159 covers the 0 – 62 mph sprint in just 8.8 seconds - less than one second off the pace of the more powerful 2.4 JTDM engine, on its way to a top speed of 136 mph.

CO2 emissions have been reduced to just 142 g/km.

NEW TRIM LEVELS FOR ALFA 159 RANGE
To coincide with the launch of these new engines, Alfa Romeo has introduced a new range structure which now features five trim levels – Turismo, Turismo Sport, Elegante, Lusso and TI.

First of the two new trim levels, Turismo Sport offers drivers sporty upgrades including 17” sport alloy wheels, Blue&Me, sports seat cloth, sports leather steering wheel with remote audio controls and gear knob, and sports dials.

The new Elegante trim adds additional style to the already highly specified Turismo equipment, including rear parking sensors, visibility pack and luxury Alfatex® interior.

Each high specification trim level brings added choice in terms of comfort, refinement, technology and aesthetics.

UNDER THE BONNET – TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION
1750 TBi 200BHP PETROL ENGINE

Scavenging
The enhanced performance of this continuously variable valve timing engine is the result of applying ‘scavenging technology’, maximising torque at very low engine speeds.

This is achieved by monitoring and optimising engine parameters such as fuel measurement, injection timing and spark advance. Managed by a new ECU, it is possible to define the angle and times of valve overlap in order to generate airflow from the inlet manifold to the exhaust manifold and therefore activate the turbocharger very quickly.

This new process allows for maximum exploitation of the turbocharger compared to conventional turbocharged petrol engines.

The results are maximum torque at just 1500 rpm – 70% greater than that of a conventional turbo engine – and throttle response times slashed by half.

Direct Injection
Direct injection with an advanced double-injection strategy is essential to reduce emissions. Allowing direct control of fuel metering during the scavenging process, it is possible to prevent unburnt fuel ending up in the exhaust, which affects the catalytic converter. The secondary injection system has a new high-pressure pump and new 7-aperture injectors which guarantee perfect vaporisation.

This allows excellent performance to be achieved even in the presence of relatively high compression, and provides low consumption at cruising speeds.

Dual variable valve timing (VVT)
The two continuous phase variators on both inlet and exhaust camshafts optimise the valve timing at all speeds, minimizing consumption and emissions. In addition, by coupling the two variators to the turbocharger, the ‘scavenging’ strategy is accurately controlled.

In response to a sudden torque request from the driver, it is therefore possible to significantly accelerate engine response, even from low RPM.

Turbocharger
This engine incorporates a new generation KKK fixed geometry turbocharger connected to an innovative pulse converter-type exhaust manifold which optimises the use of exhaust pressure waves to increment driving torque at low speeds. Both manifold and turbine are made of microcast steel so that they can withstand very high working temperatures (up to a maximum of 1020 °C). This is important for a reduction in fuel consumption while operating at medium/high speed.

Thermal fluid dynamics
The inlet ports have been designed using new technology allowing the optimal level of turbulence to be created. This results in the correct mixing of air and fuel. The combustion chambers have also been optimised by using ‘squish’ areas, minimising the surface-to-volume ratio and therefore benefitting combustion efficiency.

Friction
The entire engine has been designed to reduce losses through friction. Pistons have ‘flexible’ rings to limit tangential load and advanced materials have been used to reduce wear. In addition, the aluminium alloy cylinder head design incorporates roller rocker arms that help reduce losses through sliding contact by up to 65 % at 2000 rpm, compared to traditional cylinder heads with hydraulic tappets.

An optimised crankshaft design based on long connecting rods but a comparatively short stroke, has cut to a minimum the high speed vibration normally associated with four-cylinder engines, obviating the need for balancer shafts.

Performance
A new engine management system combined with a scavenging strategy has achieved new ‘benchmark’ levels for engine performance.

The specific torque achieved, (185 Nm per litre) is among the highest for modern petrol engines. With 320 Nm of torque available, the power unit offers significant benefits to the driver, including excellent pick-up performance, resulting in fewer gear changes.

Emissions
As a result of dual injection and high injection pressure, the engine’s emissions values meet the Euro 5 limit with a relatively small catalytic converter and consequent positive effects on performance. With the production of 189 g/km of CO2 the new Alfa 1750 TBi engine sits in VED Band J.

UNDER THE BONNET – TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION
2.0 LITRE 170 BHP DIESEL ENGINE

Alfa’s new 170 bhp 2.0 JTDM diesel engine is an evolution of the hugely successful 1.9 JTDM and delivers clear and measurable benefits to the driver and the environment.

Increased torque and power make the driving experience more relaxed and responsive, while CO2 emissions have been reduced to as low as 136 g/km (on the combined cycle), meeting the Euro 5 standard and placing the model in VED Band E.

Performance is boosted from 150 to 170 bhp by increasing the displacement from 1910 to 1956 cc – achieved through extending the size of the bore from 82 mm to 83 mm - and the use of a new variable geometry turbo.

At the same time, fuel economy has been improved by friction optimisation, and a lowered compression ratio (16.5:1) results in a significant decrease in NOx emissions. Low viscosity oil and new calibrations made possible by using a close-coupled diesel particulate filter and an evolved exhaust gas recirculation system all play their part.

The result is low CO2 emissions in line with the most stringent European benchmarks.

Adding to the driver appeal of the new 170 bhp 2.0 JTDM version, routine maintenance intervals have been extended to 21,000 miles.

Source: Newspress

 

 

FIAT AND ALFA ROMEO BOTH POSTED STRONG SALES GAINS IN UK LAST MONTH

Fiat and Alfa Romeo were both big sales winners in the UK in July as the new car market finally turned positive after 15 consecutive months of falling registrations, and although the total market gained just 2.4 percent, Fiat was up by 24.16 percent while Alfa Romeo climbed by an impressive 45.79 percent.

New car registrations in the UK rose 2.4 percent in July to 157,149 units. This was the first growth in 15 months, reflecting the positive impact of the scrappage incentive scheme. Registrations from private buyers and of small cars were up in July although the overall market is still down by almost 550,000 units over the past 12 months.

The Fiat brand sold 5,216 cars in the UK during July compared to 4,186 units during the same month last year and these totals added up to a 24.61 percent year-on-year rise. Fiat was able to successfully tap into the positive effects of the scrappage scheme which evident in growth seen in the small car sectors last month. A-segment registrations more than trebled in July, from 2008, while B-segment "supermini" volumes rose 15.7 percent to account for 37.5 percent of all registrations in the UK. The new 500C has also just gone on sale in the UK tapping into the fact that this market sustains Europe's biggest demand for new cabriolet cars. This all meant that Fiat was able to raise it's share of all sales in the UK for July year-on-year from 2.73 percent to 3.2 percent.

Alfa Romeo weighed in with 901 sales last month, compared to 618 in July 2008, which adds up to a hefty 45.79 percent year-on-year hike and increases its market share from 0.40 to 0.57 percent year-on-year during the seventh month of the year.

Source: Italiaspeed

 

ALFA ROMEO CELEBRATES ITS 99th BIRTHDAY AT GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

A year shy of the Italian sporting marque’s 100th birthday, Alfa Romeo will be preparing for next year’s Centenary with an historic hill climb by the first 8C Spider production car to be seen on the move in Britain, at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

A firm favourite at last year’s British Motor Show, the Alfa 8C Spider – based on the 4.7litre V8 Alfa 8C Competizione coupe – will be joined on the hill by iconic motor racing cars from Alfa Romeo’s historic museum collection in Arese, Italy.

These include the 1924 P2 Gran Premio which won the first World Championship in 1925 driven by Gastone Brilli-Peri; the 8C 2300 tipo Le Mans which was purchased by Sir Henry Birkin in 1931; the 6C 3000 CM driven to second place by Juan Manuel Fangio in the 1953 Mille Miglia and the 33 TT 12 which brought the 1975 World Manufacturer’s title to Alfa Romeo.

Two Alfa Romeo concept cars have also been entered in the Cartier Style et Luxe in the “Serious Wedge – Studies in Angular Sports Car Design 1965-1980” category, both of which were designed by Bertone.

The 1968 Alfa Carabo concept marks a revolutionary stage in supercar design, with its hydropneumatic-powered gull-wing doors and multi-coloured one way glass windows. Yet another demonstration of Bertone’s experimental forward thinking design is the 1978 Najavo, which represents a concerted effort for a new aerodynamics focussed direction in sporty coupe design.

The Alfa Romeo stand will feature both Alfa 8C Spider and Competizione supercars, as well as the new sporty compact MiTo, Spider, Brera S and 159.

Alfa Romeo is a proud sponsor of the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Source: Newspress

ALFA ROMEO SEVERS THE LAST SLENDER LINK WITH ITS BIRTHPLACE

Alfa Romeo Centro Stile is now closing down it’s current location on the site of the former Alfa Romeo factory at Arese. breaking a century old link between the car maker and the City of Milan.

Alfa Romeo's very first cars were produced at a factory in the Portello suburb of Milan in 1910. The Alfa Romeo logo, the Biscione, famously bears the ancient crest of the Viscontis of Milan dating back to the 11th century and the crusades.

Today, Alfa Romeo’s link with Milan is held by the very slenderest of threads. The historical association with Milan is captured in the brand's latest model, the MiTo, which draws its name from a combination of the cities of Milan and Turin. Only Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, the official museum and the Fiat Powertrain helpdesk remain at the once sprawling Arese factory that saw mass car production ending a decade ago. Despite this, the small-scale assembly of the Alfa Romeo GTV and Spider (916) outlived the mass-produced cars while the classic 'Arese' V6 engine, along with some LPG conversions of Fiat models, continued up to the middle of this decade.

With the Fiat Group's design activities (Fiat, Fiat Professional, Abarth, Lancia and Iveco) being recently refocused on the Mirafiori site in Turin at Officina 83 under the guidance of ex-Pininfarina design chief Lorenzo Ramaciotti who reports directly to Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, the days of Alfa Romeo's presence in Arese was always to be short-lived. Bringing Alfa Romeo into the new Officina 83 design complex will cut costs, create synergies and improve efficiencies according to Fiat Group planning.

According to Quattroruote magazine this week the general staff at Alfa Romeo Centro Stile in Arese have now been put onto the government sanctioned redundancy payment scheme for the next seven weeks and will not return to work afterwards. Work on upgrading the official Alfa Romeo museum, which is also based at Arese, has been halted.

Read more on this story at www.italiaspeed.com

“MultiAir” is launched on the Alfa Romeo MiTo

Just a year before the celebrations for the Centenary and as ever a synonym of refined technologies and high performance engines, Alfa Romeo announces the marketing from September of the Alfa Romeo MiTo with 1.4 Turbo petrol MultiAir engines, the revolutionary technology developed and patented by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The range of a winning model is therefore even broader, for a model which, since its launch to date, has seen 60,000 orders and is sold in 34 Countries throughout the world in 5 different continents.

The new engines are an important "breaking point" from the current petrol engine scenario, just as was the case for the diesel Common Rail technology which saw its debut on the Alfa Romeo 156 in 1997. Just think that, compared to a traditional petrol engine with the same displacement, MultiAir engines ensure an increase in power (up to 10%) and torque (up to 15%), as well as a considerable reduction in consumption levels (up to 10%) and CO2 emissions (up to 10%), of particulates (up to 40%) and NOx (up to 60%).

The heart of the MultiAir is the new electro-hydraulic valve control system which makes it possible to reduce consumption levels (thanks to direct air control via the engine suction valves, without the use of the throttle) and polluting emissions (thanks to the combustion control). What's more, an emblem of the concept of “downsizing”, the Multiair is a versatile technology, easily applied to all petrol engines, with a future potential development on diesel engines, too.

The head of this revolutionary family is the MultiAir 1.400 16v turbocharged and aspirated engine which on the Alfa Romeo MiTo model will be available with 3 different power levels (105 HP, 135 HP and 170 HP) and combined with 5 or 6 gear manual gearboxes. While the first two are offered on all versions of the MiTo range, the third will be exclusively available on the special version called “Quadrifoglio Verde” (Green Four-leaved Clover), debuting after the launch.

Made in Termoli (CB) at the FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies factory, the new MultiAir engines were designed from the onset of their development to enhance further the Alfa DNA selector, the device which makes it possible to adapt the personality of the Alfa Romeo MiTo to the requirements of the driver and the different road conditions. What's more, for the first time on the “most sporty compact car ever”, the Start&Stop system will debut - combined with the MultiAir engines. This system controls the temporary turning off of the engine and its subsequent restarting (for example when stopped at a set of traffic lights), keeping all the car's other devices intended for the passengers' comfort in operation.

Source: Fiat Group Automobiles Press

ENGLAND POLO STAR FALLS FOR SLEEK ITALIAN BEAUTY

England Polo team member, and formerly England’s highest handicapped player, Henry Brett, has added some Italian flair to the polo scene by jumping into a stunning Alfa Brera S V6.

Specifically designed for the British roads, the Brera S perfectly complements Henry’s style and passion for all things fast and elegant.

Henry says: “I’ve always had a keen eye for Italian beauty and as soon as I saw the Brera S I knew I had to have one. Even though it’s a sports coupe, I can fit all my sports equipment inside, which is obviously very important to me. I’m looking forward to turning more heads than usual this season.”

The limited edition Alfa Brera S & S V6 are creations of a partnership between Alfa Romeo UK and motorsports specialists Prodrive – combining the best of Italian design with the best of British engineering, with prices starting at £24,950 on-the-road. www.alfaromeo.co.uk

Source: Newspress

DRIVE AN ALFA MITO FOR UNDER £150 A MONTH

Following news that Alfa Romeo has backed the Government’s scrappage scheme, the Italian sporting car manufacturer has announced a remarkable PCP finance deal that means eligible motorists can drive away a brand new Alfa MiTo, without any deposit, for just £146.50 a month.

The four year finance deal applies to Alfa Romeo’s stylish and well specified Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V Turismo model, worth £10,995.  Coupled with its head-turning good looks, this compact car’s long list of comfort, technology and safety features is expected to have customers queuing up to take advantage of the stunning low cost contract.

Appealing to different budgets, Alfa Romeo has developed other equally attractive finance packages across the entire Alfa MiTo line-up.

Like all Alfa MiTos in the range, the Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V Turismo features air conditioning, electric power-assisted steering, alarm and immobiliser, electric windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors, LED rear lights, seven airbags, VDC (ABS + ASR + Brake Assist) with Hill Holder, plus a stereo radio with audio CD and MP3 reader as standard.

It even has supercar technology in the form of a DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) switch that alters the driving characteristics of the car for different driving situations and, for an even more entertaining drive, an electronic Q2 system that simulates the presence of a limited slip differential.

Brand Communications Manager at Alfa Romeo UK, Damien Dally, says: “Anyone in the business of cashing in an ageing car can’t afford to overlook the brand new Alfa MiTo.  For less than £150 a month motorists get the chance to own an eye-catching compact car that’s crammed full of technology and features to make any journey a fun and rewarding drive.”

With the scrappage scheme, the zero deposit finance deal requires 47 monthly payments of £146.50 and an optional one off payment of £4,625.16 at the end of the term. 

For more information on the Alfa Romeo range and details of the UK scrappage scheme, log on to www.alfaromeo.co.uk or visit your local Alfa Romeo dealer.

Source: Newspress

DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY!
AN ALFA ROMEO FOR LESS THAN £9K

ALFA ROMEO JOINS UK SCRAPPAGE SCHEME WITH INCREASED CONTRIBUTION ON SELECTED MODELS

For the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall, when a litre of petrol cost us 38p and Bobby McFerrin sang ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’, it’s possible to own a brand new Alfa Romeo for less than £9,000. News that the Government is incentivising drivers of old cars (10 years and older) to trade up to a brand new model with a £1,000 windfall matched by the manufacturer, means eligible motorists can own a stunning Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V Turismo for just £8,995.

The last Alfa Romeo to be sold in the UK for under £9,000 was the five door Alfa 33 in 1989.
Twenty years on, Alfa Romeo’s head-turning Alfa MiTo range boasts innovative technology and safety features that didn’t even exist when the Alfa 33 was launched.

Unlike any other compact car in the sector, every Alfa MiTo features as standard equipment: air conditioning, electric power-assisted steering, alarm and immobiliser, electric windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors, LED rear lights, seven airbags, VDC (ABS + ASR + Brake Assist) with Hill Holder, and car radio with audio CD and MP3 reader.

For an entertaining and rewarding driver experience, the iconic sporting Italian manufacturer has also bestowed the Alfa MiTo range with an electronic Q2 system that simulates the presence of a limited slip differential, and supercar technology in the form of a DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) switch that alters the driving characteristics of the car for different driving situations.

On selected models, Alfa Romeo is offering up to £3,000 in addition to the Government’s incentive.
For more information on the Alfa Romeo range and details of the UK scrappage scheme, log on to www.alfaromeo.co.uk or visit your local Alfa Romeo dealer.

Source: Newspress

 

ALFA ROMEO BUCKS SALES TREND

Against a backdrop of falling new car sales in Britain, and a UK market 28.5 per cent down on 2008 year-to-date, Italian sporting car manufacturer, Alfa Romeo, is bucking the trend by posting buoyant sales results in the past two consecutive months.

According to March and April’s new registration statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, Alfa Romeo has recorded a positive percentage change in its new car sales, with industry-leading results in each month, and a massive 76.8% increase in April – 55% higher than any other manufacturer for the month.

The Italian sporting marque is also one of only two manufacturers to be credited with increased year-to-date sales figures compared to 2008.

Alfa Romeo in 2009 has been boosted by the introduction of the sporty, compact Alfa MiTo which has extended the manufacturer’s appeal into a new market segment. The technologically advanced and fun-to-drive addition to the range has been an instant hit with young and image conscious motorists keen to take advantage of Alfa Romeo’s competitive pricing and low insurance ratings.

Source: Newspress

MARKET-LEADING CONTRACT HIRE OFFERS ON ALFA 159,
BRERA AND SPIDER

Alfa Romeo UK has just revealed details of eye-catching finance offers* on selected Alfa 159, Brera and Spider models.

The sporty Alfa 159 1.9 JTDM Lusso saloon is now available from just £259 per month and features leather upholstery, 17” alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, plus Blue&Me – the hands-free Bluetooth system with voice recognition and media player.

For drivers wanting more space, the Alfa 159 Sportwagon is also available from £295 per month.

Those preferring a striking coupé or cabriolet need look no further than the Brera 2.2-litre JTS model with metallic paint and leather upholstery, available now for £315 per month; or the Spider 2.2JTS for £359, which includes metallic paint, leather upholstery, 18” alloy wheels, and Blue&Me.

Alfa Romeo has always built cars that are beautiful to behold as well as fun to drive, and these finance offers are certain to make the current range even more desirable,” says James McMenamin, National Corporate Sales Manager for Alfa Romeo.

Better still, there’s a model to suit everyone’s needs – be it a sporty cabriolet, a family saloon, a Sportwagon estate, or a sleek coupé.”

These offers, as well as contract hire offers on the new Alfa MiTo, are available throughout the Alfa Romeo dealer network.

* Finance offers valid until 30/6/09

For full details contact your nearest Alfa Romeo dealership or visit: www.alfaromeo.co.uk

Source: Newspress

Alfa Romeo at the 79th Geneva International Motorshow

Alfa Romeo attended the Geneva International Motorshow with a visually impressive stand on which world previews and current production cars alternated to emphasize – yet again – the uniqueness of the brand on the world motoring scene.

The undoubted leading player was the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept, the expression of a philosophy which has its roots in the glorious world of competition and is projected into the future as the forerunner of a new generation of sporting cars.
Designed using the experience gained with the 8C Competizione and Spider, the new Concept shares with the exclusive “supercar” the philosophy based on achieving the greatest driving pleasure, resulting from exceptional agility produced by a power-to-weight ratio worthy of a racing car allied to the proverbial Alfa Romeo roadholding. The abbreviation GTA is one of those contributing to the sporting history of the automobile, achieving a long series of successes on European race tracks. So, the new Concept produces the same concentration of emotions as the prestigious Italian Gran Turismo cars, with a product concept which fully embraces the principle of “downsizing”, guaranteeing reduced emissions and lower operating costs.
At Geneva the public could admire a MiTo GTA Concept positioned on a dais covered with a special resin which evoked the flavour of the track and competition, the favorite environment for GTA cars of any era. In fact, one of the most important chapters in the glorious sporting history of Alfa Romeo is without doubt that represented by the Giulia Sprint GTA. With this car was born the philosophy of the Gran Turismo Alleggerito (light grand tourer) which allowed a production car to be converted into a victorious competition prototype thanks to the excellent technical qualities appreciated by drivers of all eras. Moreover, the race track has always been a demanding testing ground for the development of Alfa Romeos, right up to the present day.
Designed to welcome and engage the public, the exhibition area allowed visitors to admire the latest motoring innovations and, at the same time, to “live” the emotions associated with the Alfa Romeo name. The innovative stand was born out of a perfect marriage of design and technology, of sportiness and stylistic refinement. In fact, the area was dominated by costly materials - gloss lacquer, leather, steel and the mirrored walls – which reflected the mood of the interiors of the cars on display. The floors areas had inlays of various materials with different shades of black and steel inserts, the MiTo, Brera and 159 (sedan and Sportwagon) models stood out while two examples of the 8C Competizione and Spider are positioned on platforms of back-lacquered glass and inserts of a special resin evoking the racing environment. Some of these cars were fitted with two of the latest engines which anticipate the Euro 5 regulations: the 1.75 liter 200 HP Turbo Gasoline Engine and the 2.0 liter JTDM 170 HP Diesel Engine.

The whole exhibition area was made even more evocative by the imposing “Racing Red” wall which is the ideal background to the curvaceous and unique design of the cars, turning them into real stars. And in the fifth visually impressive and illuminated enclosure are accessories and articles from the Alfa Romeo Store. In addition, with the exception of the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept and the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider, which are in white colors, all the other cars on show were in “Racing Red” and perfectly expressed the main mission of Alfa Romeo: the production design of cars equipped with advanced mechanics and technology, characterized by contemporary lines and shapes which enhance the characteristics of comfort, sportiness, elegance and power inherent in the Alfa Romeo make.

To promote the Alfa MiTo, Alfa Romeo UK has created www.mymitorally.co.uk where people can log on and race the sporty, compact hatchback at 10 different venues on 10 different web sites to score a best overall time and the chance to win a head-turning Alfa MiTo worth almost £12,000.
The Italian sporting car manufacturer has created this fun, and potentially addictive, online rally driving game to emphasise the vast array of technology on board the Alfa MiTo, including its supercar DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) system that alters its dynamic characteristics of the car to suit driving conditions.
With 10 fun and challenging rally stages on 10 different web sites, web visitors can put the Alfa MiTo’s DNA system to the test on different surfaces from the urban streets of London to quiet twisting country lanes. Users can even set a time and challenge their friends to beat it!

Over the nine week duration of the promotion, top racers will be on-track to win one of 90 iPod touch units or one of 180 iPod nanos, and at the end of each week, those talented enough to reach the top of the national leaderboard will receive an equally addictive Nintendo Wii. However the ultimate prize changes the game from virtual into actual reality, with the overall winner jumping into a stylish and powerful Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V Lusso worth £11,936.00. Log on for details.
Until Friday 10 April, MyMiToRally fans can keep logging on to set a fast time and then try to better their score by picking up fuel, turbo-boosts and repairs as they race.

 

 

Motorsport Returns To CRYSTAL PALACE
 

More than 110 years after its first event Motorsport is set to return to the nation's capital, as London's Crystal Palace Park plans to host a sprint event in May 2010.

The event, which will be run by the Sevenoaks and District Motor Club (SDMC), will revive one of the world's first dedicated motoring venues - the first motorsport events were held at Crystal Palace Park in 1899.

But SDMC is still looking for investors. "The plans are all in place and we are ready to go; we now need to raise the funds to pay for repair work to the track surface and the building of safety barriers," said a spokesman for the club.

The two-day event, currently scheduled for 30-31 May 2010, will involve a sprint competition for both historic and modern racing cars, including classes for alternative-fuel and electric vehicles, and an old-style wall of death show. It will also be the only nationally accredited motorsport event held within London.

The last events were held at the park in the late 1990s, although the 1.39-mile circuit that was a regular fixture on the international motorsport scene in the 1950s and 1960s was closed in 1972.

Source: Pistonheads

(AROC has the intention to support this event, watch this space!)

Classic Race Aarhus

A Historic Drive Through Decades

On 26 and 27 June Aarhus will have its first classic race for historic cars and bikes.

The venue of the upcoming annual motorsport race Classic Race Aarhus will be surrounded by lush green forest, beautiful parks and the royal summer residence Marselisborg Castle close to beaches, attractions and shopping – a perfect setting for the entire family. The beautiful classic cars, the race track and the race itself will be the main attraction, however, there will be numerous activities for all family members.

Your driving techniques will be tested through 90-degree curves, and it will be revealed how well you know your car taking it through curves and up and down the hills on this 2.6 kilometer track.

Step into a time capsule and head back to the Fifties and Sixties in the dedicated Goodwood-inspired area where you suddenly find yourself surrounded by the unforgettable glory days of motorsport; learn about the history of motorsport, simply enjoy the beauty and breathe in the historic and romantic atmosphere.

For on-line registration and ticket booking, visit the Classic Race Aarhus website www.craa.dk