Alfa Romeo has celebrated its 105th birthday by (finally) unveiling the Giulia.
As a compact sports saloon, the new arrival will have to take on talented rivals such as the BMW 3 Series and Jaguar XE. To say that’s no easy task is an understatement.
It replaces the 159, which ceased production in late 2011. After such an inordinate delay there can be no excuses if the Giulia exhibits any major shortcomings.
Significantly, both rear- and all-wheel drive will be offered. In this segment front-wheel drive lacks cachet, plus it struggles to deliver top-notch handling balance. Many Audi A4 owners might disagree, though.
Excellent driving dynamics are promised. Alfa Romeo claims that the steering response is best-in-class, while the suspension comprises double wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear. Furthermore, a Torque Vectoring system allows the rear differential to distribute torque separately to each wheel, thus maximising traction.
Keeping the weight down and splitting it evenly between both axles were other key objectives. To help achieve those aims, the range-topping Quadrifoglio model makes use of carbon fibre or aluminium for many of its body panels. Carbon ceramic brake discs are fitted too and the rear crossmember is made from an aluminium and plastic composite.
Powering the Quadrifoglio is a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit that has been developed with input from Ferrari. It produces 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS), which is enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of just 3.9 seconds. The rest of the engine line-up has yet to be revealed.
As well as performance, styling is an important aspect of any Alfa Romeo. The Giulia doesn’t disappoint. In particular, the proportions work well thanks to a long wheelbase and short overhangs.
However, some elements do appear somewhat derivative. The outlets behind the front wheels that effuse body-side swage lines are very reminiscent of the current BMW M3, for example. Also, the rear light clusters look like they’ve been borrowed from a Maserati GranTurismo.
Giulia market launch dates and pricing are still to be confirmed.
Related posts:
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint launched
North American-spec Alfa Romeo 4C
As a compact sports saloon, the new arrival will have to take on talented rivals such as the BMW 3 Series and Jaguar XE. To say that’s no easy task is an understatement.
It replaces the 159, which ceased production in late 2011. After such an inordinate delay there can be no excuses if the Giulia exhibits any major shortcomings.
Significantly, both rear- and all-wheel drive will be offered. In this segment front-wheel drive lacks cachet, plus it struggles to deliver top-notch handling balance. Many Audi A4 owners might disagree, though.
Excellent driving dynamics are promised. Alfa Romeo claims that the steering response is best-in-class, while the suspension comprises double wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear. Furthermore, a Torque Vectoring system allows the rear differential to distribute torque separately to each wheel, thus maximising traction.
Keeping the weight down and splitting it evenly between both axles were other key objectives. To help achieve those aims, the range-topping Quadrifoglio model makes use of carbon fibre or aluminium for many of its body panels. Carbon ceramic brake discs are fitted too and the rear crossmember is made from an aluminium and plastic composite.
Powering the Quadrifoglio is a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit that has been developed with input from Ferrari. It produces 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS), which is enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of just 3.9 seconds. The rest of the engine line-up has yet to be revealed.
As well as performance, styling is an important aspect of any Alfa Romeo. The Giulia doesn’t disappoint. In particular, the proportions work well thanks to a long wheelbase and short overhangs.
However, some elements do appear somewhat derivative. The outlets behind the front wheels that effuse body-side swage lines are very reminiscent of the current BMW M3, for example. Also, the rear light clusters look like they’ve been borrowed from a Maserati GranTurismo.
Giulia market launch dates and pricing are still to be confirmed.
Related posts:
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint launched
North American-spec Alfa Romeo 4C
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