Autoblog

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Kamal Concept snapped at Fiat R&D facility?

Noah Joseph — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Europe, Crossover, Alfa Romeo

If this crossover looks a little familiar, your eyes are not playing tricks on you. Alfa Romeo unveiled this concept vehicle at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. It was called the Kamal, and it was supposed to have gone into production by now. But things have been a little crazy over at the Fiat group. Mergers and acquisitions have collapsed and others have gone through, forcing the Italian automaker to change its product strategy at every turn.

What has us asking questions all over again is this batch of spy shots reportedly leaked by an employee at Fiat's Elasis research and development facility in Pomigliano, Italy. Of course, it's entirely possible the original concept was being moved from one storage facility to another, but then they could be bringing it out again for another reason. One way or another, we should find out soon as Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne prepares to decide on Alfa's fate in due course.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept

[Source: alvolante.it via Worldcarfans]

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Kamal Concept snapped at Fiat R&D facility? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo teams up with Italia Independent for special-edition Brera

Noah Joseph — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Europe, Alfa Romeo, Luxury

Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent - Click above for high-res image gallery

Say what you will about its driving dynamics, but there's little doubt that the Alfa Romeo Brera is one of the most stylish and fashionable sets of wheels on the road today. As if to reinforce that notion, the Italian automaker has teamed up with fashion house Italia Independent for a special edition model of the angular coupe.

The Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent is distinguished by its titanium paint shade, 18" turbine-style dark alloys hiding red brake calipers and an aluminum fuel cap. Inside it's all carbon fiber, black leather and red top stitching, accented with Italia Independent logos.

The special edition is available with the 185-horsepower 2.2-liter four or 260-hp 3.2-liter V6, in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Only 900 units will be sold in Europe, Japan and Australia, starting at €29,700 (the equivalent of about $41k USD) for the 2.2 and €38,850 ($57k) for the 3.2. Check out our gallery below for a closer view of this fashion-forward forbidden fruit.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Alfa Romeo teams up with Italia Independent for special-edition Brera originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ruh-Roh: Marchionne reportedly puts Alfa Romeo under review

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Europe, Earnings/Financials, Alfa Romeo

Take a look at the Fiat auto group. What division (barring Ferrari and Maserati) would you think holds the highest value for the company? If you thought Alfa Romeo, you're on the same page as yours truly, but you'd be mistaken. Horribly mistaken, as it turns out: Alfa has lost Fiat hundreds of millions of euros every year. Its sales have declined sharply, and not just since the global economy collapsed: Alfa sold 203,000 units in the year 2000, but only 103,000 last year. That's a heck of a drop-off.

In response, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has ordered a full re-evaluation of the marque, with two courses of action to potentially result. The first would see Alfa more closely integrating its future products with Chrysler platforms. The second would be to stop investing in the brand altogether, leaving the still-new MiTo and the brand-new Giulietta to carry its aging stablemates (including the 159, Brera, Spider and GT) for the foreseeable future.

Speaking with Automotive News Europe from Fiat's headquarters in Turin, Marchionne reportedly said the new plan for Alfa will be revealed this coming February or March. Even if he chooses to keep Alfa alive with Auburn Hills synergy, though, Marchionne has nixed the notion of merging the brand with Dodge, noting that there's a limit to how many times a brand can be reborn.

[Source: Automotive News Europe - subs. req'd | Image: Tiziana Fabi/AFP/Getty]

Ruh-Roh: Marchionne reportedly puts Alfa Romeo under review originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a long time in the making. It has changed names several times along the way. But it's finally here. Well, almost. It's the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and it's coming to the Geneva Motor Show this March to coincide with its phased market launch across Europe next year to coincide with the marque's centenary.

Positioned just above the MiTo in Alfa's lineup (and, tellingly, below the anticipated upcoming 159-succeeding Giulia), the Giulietta replaces the 147 as Italy's answer to the Volkswagen Golf. Since Alfa's parent company Fiat already targets the Golf with its own Bravo, though, some might consider this more of an aggressively-priced competitor to the Audi A3. The hatchback takes its styling cues from the sumptuous 8C Competizione, but carries it off in a decidedly more aggressive way than implemented on the MiTo. Plenty of glass also make the cabin more airy, with a body-colored panel running across the dashboard.

A range of transverse four-cylinder engines - both gasoline and diesel - will be on offer, producing between 120 and 170 horsepower until a 230 hp Quadrifoglio Verde model comes along. They've all got start-stop engine management and Alfa's DNA adjustable suspension system as standard equipment. Fiat's cutting-edge MultiAir valve-actuation system will eventually find its way into all of the engines, while the selection of five- and six-speed manual gearboxes is set to be joined by a new dual-clutch transmission as well.

The new Giulietta marks a pivotal product launch for Alfa Romeo, as the company is hoping to make this its volume offering the most prolific model in its history - with production targeted for an ambitious 100,000 units annually. Check out the trifecta of images in the gallery below and the press release after the jump for full details.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta

Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Alfa Romeo nixes "Milano" designation for 147 successor, ponders Giulietta

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST

Filed under: Alfa Romeo, Fiat

In truth, Alfa Romeo didn't simply rename the coming model formerly known as "Milano" to "Giulietta." It was Fiat's unhappy Milanese workers who made a stink awful enough to get the company to change course in nomenclature. Seems the new Milano was due to arrive as the last of the Milanese Alfisti were going to be made redundant or moved to Turin, where Fiat is headquartered. The Milan workers, dead set on not being remembered in name alone, protested to the parent company, and so the car has a new name.

That name might or might not be Giulietta, but that's supposedly where the smart money's headed. Alfa would only say that "organizational issues" prevented it from disclosing the name and pictures of the car, and gave no indication of when it would tell us what the car will be called. If Giulietta does win the name game, it would be the third time Alfa's put out a model wearing that moniker.

[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]

REPORT: Alfa Romeo nixes "Milano" designation for 147 successor, ponders Giulietta originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09

Noah Joseph — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Alfa Romeo, UK

Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alfa Romeo has proven itself capable of crafting some of the most achingly beautiful automotive works of art on the road today. Unfortunately, their driving dynamics and performance numbers rarely seem to cash the checks written by their sumptuous bodywork. Nowhere is that schism more evident than with the Brera, a fantastically angular design with disappointing dynamics.

That's where aftermarket tuners come in. Over a year ago, Alfa teamed up with Prodrive to create the Brera S. The venerable British house of motorsport tightened up the suspension and steering and yanked out the heavy all-wheel-drive system to bring the sport coupe's drive closer to the aggressive level of its styling. Some evidently felt the result was a good starting point, but that it needed a little more oomph, prompting Autodelta to join the fight with the Brera S 3.2 Compressore.

By bolting a supercharger to the 260-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 and remapping its ECU, Autodelta - one of the world's foremost Alfa tuners - has coaxed out an impressive 347 stallions. But while removing the all-wheel-drive system helped shave 220 pounds off the Brera's curb weight, the London-based tuning house felt it needed a substitute, so they've fitted a limited-slip differential to handle the extra power. They'll also soften the suspension a touch from Prodrive's hard line at a client's request.

Customers looking for the convenience of a four-door can also get most of the same modifications in the form of the Autodelta J4 3.2 C, based on the 159 sedan. Both models were unveiled in London at MPH09, the live-action auto show where Autodelta exhibits its latest offerings each year. Follow the jump for all the details in the press release and have a stroll through the photos in the high-resolution image gallery below.

Gallery: Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore

[Source: Autodelta]

Continue reading Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09

Besting Prodrive: Autodelta unveils tuned Alfa Brera S and 159 J4 3.2 Compressore at MPH09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wall Street Journal makes early Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat predictions

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:32:00 EST

Filed under: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

Finally, after years of mismanagement marked by a distinct lack of tangible product decisions, the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands seem likely to get a thorough makeover via its new Fiat corporate overlords. Whether this turns into a good thing or bad thing for the three brands remains to be seen, and the stage is set for the plan to be officially released on November 4.

The Wall Street Journal has apparently procured a little inside knowledge on the plan, and, if accurate, there are a few surprises. First, the expected: Chrysler will begin offering the Fiat 500 in its own U.S. dealerships as soon as possible; Alfa Romeo will make its long-awaited American comeback with an established dealer network and the majority of the Dodge and Chrysler lineups will be reworked atop Fiat platforms, save the rear-wheel drive architecture of the Dodge Charger/Challenger and Chrysler 300.

Looking further down the line, the Dodge Grand Caravan will reportedly be dropped in favor of the Chrysler Town and Country and unloved nameplates like Dodge Nitro, Caliber and Avenger will be forgotten, probably along with the Jeep Patriot and Compass. New models will be brought in from Fiat to replace these outgoing cars, including a new mid-size sedan in 2012. Finally, Alfa Romeo's resurgence will begin with the subcompact MiTo in 2012 and a larger sedan a year later.

We won't know how much of this is accurate until we hear it from the horse's mouth next Wednesday, but it definitely gives us plenty to chew on. Thanks to all who sent this in!

[Source: Wall Street Journal | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Wall Street Journal makes early Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat predictions originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Not So Fast: Alfa Romeo not working on Multiair V8

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Alfa Romeo, Luxury

It's been 32 years since Alfa Romeo put out its own V8: a 2.6-liter, 197 hp mill fitted to the Montreal model that bowed out in 1977. And with emission regs what they are today, it looks like we may have to wait even longer.

Yesterday, Autocar reported that Alfa was working on a new 3.0-liter Mulitair-equipped V8 that would find a home in the replacement for its 166 flagship, supposedly based on the Chrysler 300 platform. Since the story hit the virtual presses, an Alfa spokesperson has denied the claim, saying "No front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive Alfa Romeo will use a engine larger than a V6." However, Alfa's parent, Fiat, does have access to Chrysler's 3.6-liter V6, but we somehow doubt that aging lump will find its way into the next generation of Alfa's range-topping model.

[Source: Autocar]

Not So Fast: Alfa Romeo not working on Multiair V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo Milano comes into focus

Noah Joseph — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

The Alfa Romeo 147 was voted European Car of the Year. But that was way back in 2001, the year after its launch. And despite a mid-cycle refresh, it's since grown a little long in the tooth. The Italian automaker introduced the MiTo to replace the three-door 147 last year, and has been hard at work since on the new Milano (previously referred to as "149") to replace the 147 five-door once and for all. Now, following months of speculation, spy shots and even some out-of-focus snapshots from the factory floor, we've got our best look yet at the new Italian hatchback.

If these images from Quattroroute are to be believed, it appears Alfa Romeo's Centro Stile has done a better job translating the 8C Competizione's design cues into the longer Milano than it did with the stubby MiTo. The snout does appear to extend a tad too far, giving the Milano (which, in these pictures, is wearing a 149 plate up front) a long front overhang, the trademark shield grille protruding with the headlights swept back. The tail end, as is often the case with Alfas, has some of the best lines in the business, and outfitted with the right engine, that may be all that other motorists see of it, anyway.

The jury's still out, but the latest reports indicate that the Milano won't make it to the North American market. Thanks for the tip, Vittorio!

[Source: Quattroroute]

Alfa Romeo Milano comes into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Quick Spin: Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione proves beauty is only skin deep

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Alfa Romeo, Luxury, Quick Spin

Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione - Click above for high-res image gallery

Imagine you're a male (Autoblog surveys say most of you are, so this shouldn't be hard). You've been invited to the Playboy Mansion for their annual Halloween party. You arrive, grab a flute of bubbly, get introduced to the crusty remains of Hugh Hefner and after a few minutes lay eyes on the most beautiful specimen of redheaded femininity the world has ever seen. You fight your knees from buckling, walk over and give it the ol' college try. Miraculously, you hit it off. She's entertaining, interesting and a joy to see and be seen with. One thing leads to another and you make your way upstairs into one of Heff's exotically appointed love dens.

You're ready to embark on one of the most pleasurable experiences of your life when... there's no spark. No connection. No chemistry. You use every trick in the book to make things work, but to no avail. Despite her arsenal of attributes, this exquisite example of sensuality just doesn't "do it" for you.

If you can understand that scenario, then you can understand our brief, uninspiring stint with the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. Read on for more.

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

Continue reading Quick Spin: Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione proves beauty is only skin deep

Quick Spin: Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione proves beauty is only skin deep originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Giulia coming to America sans MiTo, Milano?

Noah Joseph — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:58:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Following the confirmation of Chrysler's tie-in with the Fiat group, images began swirling around our imaginations of the imminent arrival of Alfa Romeo models current and future. That may, according to reports emerging from Italy, prove a little premature. (It happens to lots of guys, we hear). Because while the itty-bitty Fiat 500 is anticipated to hit Chrysler dealers in the near future, the venture may leave the smaller Alfas behind.

A new Alfa Romeo flagship sedan to succeed the discontinued 166 is reportedly planned for North American production, and the Giulia sedan expected to replace the current 159 around 2012 is expected to be on offer Stateside as well. But if the latest reports prove accurate, the current MiTo and its upcoming five-door counterpart, the Milano, could be left back in the Old Country when the Italian family sails for America.

[Source: Motorionline via eurocarblog]

Alfa Giulia coming to America sans MiTo, Milano? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano stopped by police by the Nurburgring

Noah Joseph — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

If you're looking at spy shots of a European hatchback and wondering, "Why should I care?", we'll tell you why. This car is, in all likelihood, coming to America. The test mule was snapped while stopped by local police, which isn't something you see every day. Oh, and it was near the Nurburgring, to boot.

The car in question is the Alfa Romeo Milano, one of a handful of new models being developed by the Italian automaker with the North American market in mind. While the MiTo effectively replaced the three-door version of the aging Alfa 147, the Milano replaces the five-door variant. Styling is fully expected to follow the example set by the MiTo and 8C Competizione, and sources suggest that the Milano could be ready for public debut at the upcoming Geneva show in March, so stay tuned.

We couldn't tell you definitively why the German police pulled the test driver over, but considering that Italian cars tend to encourage a heavy right foot and the car's proximity to the 'Ring, we can hazard a guess or two.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano stopped by police by the Nurburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo 159-replacing Giulia delayed until 2012?

Noah Joseph — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:39:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, Europe, Alfa Romeo

2009 Alfa Romeo 159 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The current Alfa Romeo 159 is a bit of a Jekyll-and-Hyde affair. Unspeakably gorgeous on the one hand, its aging, Saab-based platform means its dynamic performance doesn't come anywhere close to cashing the checks its aggressive styling writes out. So those enamored of its design will be happy, but those disappointed by its drive will be disappointed, to learn that the 159's replacement has reportedly been pushed back until 2012, thereby giving the current model a little longer to live.

This, according to Alfa's new boss Sergio Cravero - recently promoted after years as communications director following Luca de Meo's departure - in an interview with Italian daily La Stampa. The statement contradicts previous reports that the new sedan, dubbed Giulia in revival of the classic nameplate, was being rushed into development in light the current model's poor sales. Sources suggest - and by sources, we mean our own speculation - that the program has been postponed so that it can be integrated with a Chrysler platform, and could, like the replacement for the 166, be built in North America.

Gallery: 2009 Alfa Romeo 159

[Source: La Stampa]

Alfa Romeo 159-replacing Giulia delayed until 2012? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Alfa Romeo 166 replacement to be built in the U.S.

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Rumormill

The last new Alfa Romeo to be sold in the U.S. market prior to the recent low-volume 8C Competizione was the 164 sedan. Fittingly, perhaps, it now appears that its descendant could be among the first Alfas to be produced in North America.

Seemingly reconfirmingg earlier rumors, Inside Line is reporting that the successor to the (now discontinued) 166 is expected to shift from a front-wheel drive to a rear-drive platform shared with the next generation Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. While the current LX platform shares much of its suspension architecture with a previous-generation Mercedes E-Class, the new model is expected to be developed in-house by Chrysler.

The new big Alfa sedan will likely be built exclusively in Brampton, Ontario and exported to Europe. Inside Line is also reporting that the new rear-drive platform could be shortened and used for the next Brera and Spider as well. We expect to find out more some time in November when Chrysler/Fiat plans to further clarify their forthcoming product lineup.

[Source: Inside Line]

REPORT: Alfa Romeo 166 replacement to be built in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Motorcycle

17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance returned to its picturesque setting at Trump National Golf Club this past Sunday and we were fortunate enough to make it out. Thankfully, the recent Southern California wildfires missed this area of Palos Verdes, so the 17th installment of the concours went off without a hitch. Well, it was cloudy all morning, but that hardly dampened everyone's spirits. This classic car gathering is one of our favorites, not only for the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the well manicured golf course setting, but because of the quality of cars on hand. It's like a scaled down Pebble Beach, with several of that show's alumni in attendance.

This year's featured marque was Maserati, but all of the Italian brands were extremely well represented. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, Iso, Bizzarrini, De Tomaso and Lancia all had strong fields, as did Italian motorcycles, which were a new class this year. There were even a few Cisitalias, Fiats, Oscas and Siatas on display. On the non-Italian side of things, there were customs, horseless carriages, brass era cars, British luxury cars, American luxury cars and a lot of other stunning vehicles.

Some highlights included the Italian race cars - Maserati Birdcage, Monopostos and 200 SIs, Iso Griffo A3/C, and the legendary Lancia Stratos (a genuine HF team car done up in Alitalia colors). The Moto Guzzi Lodola and Vespa GS160 stood out in the bike field, but it was really nice to see all of the Maserati, Ferrari (not related to Enzo), Moto Guzzi, Ducati and Benelli cycles as well.

Other four-wheeled stunners included the Pinin Farina Series I Cab, ATS 2500, Lancia Flaminia Zagato, Cisitalia Nuvolari, Ital Design Manta, Alfa 1900 CSS, Luigi Chinetti's old Lamborghini Silhouette, '50 Merc, '54 Chrysler and Plymouth Ghias, Rolls Woodie, Vauxhall, Delahaye and Lagonda sports cars, Franklin, Wills and Panhard pre-war cars, and Steve Tillack's display of everything from a barn find and bare bodies to a glorious Ferrari formula car. We've assembled a huge gallery of most of the entrants, many with their information placards in frame so you can track down more details about your favorites.

Gallery: 17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours

17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde packs Fiat's lucky charm

Noah Joseph — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Europe, Technology, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde - Click above for high-res image gallery

We usually close our posts by inviting you to check out our images, but this time we're starting here: Go into the gallery and have a look at the little green clover logo adorning the front fender of the new Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde. You'll notice that the classic Alfa performance badge has received a slightly modern update, courtesy of some techy carbon fiber-style weave. Hardly the most important thing we've seen here in Frankfurt, but it tells a deeper story. Because while the MiTo QV draws its distinction from the company's deep racing history, it's the forward-thinking technology that sets it apart.

As we reported previously, Alfa is using the MiTo QV to introduce its latest development from Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The MultiAir engine uses advanced electronics and hydraulic actuators to regulate the amount of air being mixed with the gasoline inside the engine's four combustion chambers to the benefit of throttle response and efficiency. And while the 170 horsepower on offer in the Quadrifoglio Verde may fall short of the 240-horsepower GTA in the pipeline, it is here right now, and best of all, the technology is coming to America as part of Fiat's partnership with Chrysler... with or without Alfa's lucky four-leaf clover.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde

Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde packs Fiat's lucky charm originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt

Noah Joseph — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde MultiAir - Click above for high-res image gallery

The four-leaf clover means different things to different people. It's a national icon for the Irish, and a good luck charm to Sunday strollers. But to Alfa Romeo fanatics, it's the emblem of the very best Italy has to offer.

The icon has been used on various high-performance Alfas throughout the company's history, and most recently appeared on special editions of the Spider, GT and 147. Now Alfa's brought it back again for this special MiTo. The Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde showcases the Italian automaker's latest MultiAir engine - a 1.4-liter, 170hp version in this case - which replaces the throttle plane with electronically-controlled electrohydraulic actuators to optimizes airflow in each cylinder's combustion chamber. Coupled with a new six-speed gearbox, the Quadrifoglio is capable of accelerating to 60 in seven seconds while returning nearly 50 miles to the gallon on the autostrada.

And to set it apart from ordinary MiTos, the Quadrifoglio Verde also features 17-inch wheels, mirror housings and more in dark satin, with a black interior and white instruments, and of course the requisite four-leaf clover emblems. Check it out in the gallery below and the full details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt

Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee to underpin new Alfa Romeo SUV?

Noah Joseph — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Crossover, Jeep, Alfa Romeo

Chrysler may not have a host of solid new products in the pipeline, but the upcoming Jeep Grand Cherokee looks promising. With that in mind, it shouldn't come as a great surprise that the new bosses in Auburn Hills want to take advantage of the opportunity to get an Italian version of the upcoming sport-ute on the market. According to a report from Car and Driver that goes right along with whispers we've heard through the grapevine, the 2011 Grand Cherokee could provide its underpinnings to a new Alfa Romeo SUV, rumored to be (clumsily) dubbed the Cxover/A.

While the Jeep has a rugged, go-anywhere image to uphold, the Alfa version would likely be more street-focused, taking aim at the likes of the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. European restrictions would probably preclude the Hemi V8 from powering the Alfa, which, like the Grand Cherokee sold in Europe, would likely incorporate a range of diesel and gasoline V6 engines. As you can see from the rendering, adapting Alfa's curvaceous styling to the Grand Cherokee's classically rugged shape may prove a bit of a challenge, but we're eager to see the Italians give it a shot.

Gallery: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

[Source: Car and Driver]

Rendered Speculation: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee to underpin new Alfa Romeo SUV? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Monterey 2009: Zagato honored at Pebble Beach

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Aston Martin, Misc. Auto Shows, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo

Zagato Tribute Class at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance displayed approximately 200 of the most unique and exquisite automobiles in the world on the 18th hole of the Links at Pebble Beach. Amidst the Bentley and Bugatti, Ferraris and Mercedes-Benz models, there was a special class devoted to a particular design house. That design house was celebrating its 90th anniversary - and despite having some of the world's most incredible designs in its long catalog of coachbuilt specials, it remains a relative unknown to most casual car fans. While many people might be able to recognize the name Pininfarina or Bertone, far fewer know the name Zagato. That's really a shame.

Starting with Ugo Zagato way back in the 1910's, son Elio and grandson Andrea have continued the tradition of building some of the most elegant and sporting vehicles on the planet. As part of a special tribute class at Pebble this year, a collection of Zagato-bodied cars was assembled that included customized cars from legendary automakers like AC, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Fiat and Maserati. While all of them have their own charm, we were particularly mesmerized by the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT LWB, 1965 Alfa Romeo TZ2 Zagato Competition Berlinetta (above), and the diminutive 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Zagato Coupe.

Check out our high-res gallery below and let us know what your favorite is.

Gallery: Pebble Beach 2009: Zagato

Monterey 2009: Zagato honored at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Monterey 2009: Concorso Italiano returns to the links

Frank Filipponio — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Classics, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

Concorso Italiano 2009 - Click image above for high-res gallery

Monterey coverage continues unabated, with today's posts highlighting three different events: Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, La Dolce Vita, and Concorso Italiano. While Quail and La Dolce Vita have already been covered, here we're focusing on the Italians. Concorso Italiano has been one of Monterey's largest gatherings of Italian vehicles for many years, but last year's move to a municipal airport almost killed the event dead.

Previously held at the nearby Bayonet Black Horse Golf Course in Monterey Bay, Concorso had to relocate due to some course reconstruction in 2008. This year the show went back to the links, but Laguna Seca Golf Ranch was the lucky host rather than Black Horse. Though the location was different, the show was much the same as we had come to expect from years past. Just like the past 20-something years, the event drew some stunning examples of Italy's finest.

Special gatherings honored the Ferrari 288 GTO, Alfa Romeo BAT cars, Ducati and Iso. There were also the usual huge clusters of De Tomaso, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia, Maserati and "Honorary Italian" vehicles. Oh, and there were also a few Lamborghinis and Ferraris. Something on the order of 200 of each it seemed. Personal favorites included the Ferrari 512 race car, lime-green Dino, ultra-rare 288 GTO Evoluzione, white Scuderia, Lamborghini LMA, 1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS, and the Gilda turbine car that will be auctioned at Gooding on Sunday. It was also great to see Tesla, Fisker and newcomer SV Motors represented. Check out the gallery and you'll see why this has become one of the biggest events in the world for lovers of Italian machinery.

Gallery: 2009 Concorso Italiano

Monterey 2009: Concorso Italiano returns to the links originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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