Alfa Mulls New Models

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Alfa Romeo unit is evaluating replacements for its 4C sports car and European-market Giulietta compact hatchback.

A C-segment model and a “very sporty product” are necessary to fill out Alfa’s lineup, Roberto Fedeli, the company's chief technical officer, tells Auto Express. The brand introduced the current Giulietta and 4C in 2010 and 2013, respectively.

Alfa will start by updating the current 4C coupe and roadster, then decide on whether to move forward with an all-new chassis and engine, according to the British enthusiast magazine. If approved, Fedeli says, the next-generation model will come with an automatic transmission without a manual option.

A new Giulietta likely would switch from its current front-wheel-drive architecture to a shortened version of the Giulia sedan’s rear-wheel-drive platform. Such a move would help differentiate Alfa in the segment as an alternative to fwd counterparts from Audi and Mercedes, other media reports note. The next BMW 1 Series also is expected to transition to a front-drive layout.

Despite the Giulietta’s popularity in Europe, where the car is Alfa’s top seller, Fedeli says it’s difficult to make a profit on the vehicle because it isn’t sold globally. No timeframe was given for when a decision would be made on the new model or its possible introduction.