Given Alfa Romeo’s prior history, you should always take whatever you hear about the Italian automaker’s future plans with a grain of salt.
This time, its UK magazine Autocar that has come up with a mix of new information and previously known details about Alfa’s 159 replacement, which is currently referred to with its internal but not final name, Giulia.
When Alfa Romeo unveiled their 159 sedan (pictured above), it never truly compared to the likes of BMW or Mercedes in the executive sedan market. As time went by, the car itself aged and the Alfa Romeo brand began to struggle for solid sales numbers.
Now, with help from Chrysler, Alfa Romeo is looking for a way to emerge as a tougher competitor in key markets including Europe, North America and China with a new version of the 159/Giulia.
While no official details have been released on the upcoming model, it is expected that along with the stunning 4C concept, the Giulia will spearhead Alfa’s return to the U.S. market.
The British publication says that the new model could ride on a reworked and enlarged version of the Dodge Dart’s platform (itself based on the smaller Giulietta) with a longer wheelbase and a rumored independent rear suspension.
This means the Giulia would be a front-wheel drive model and possibly offer the option of AWD – not the best choice for a brand that became famous for its RWD models and which wants to rival BMW in the sporty sedan segment.
The petrol engine range will reportedly include a 120bhp 1.4-liter MultiAir, a revised version of the 1.75-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit, and a new MultiAir version of Chrysler’s latest Pentastar petrol V6, though Autocar says this engine may not be offered in Europe.
Naturally, the car will be available with a range of Fiat’s own turbocharged diesels in markets such as Europe.
The magazine added that Fiat officials are currently evaluating plans to build the new Alfa at Chrysler’s Belvidere, Illinois plant as well as in China for the local markets, but emphasized that no final decision has been made yet.
2009-2010 ALFA ROMEO 159 
