Autoblog

Alfa MiTo Touring Sport is more equal, less special than others

Noah Joseph — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:29:00 EST

Alfa Romeo MiTo Touring Sport - Click above for high-res images

"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." George Orwell may have thought he was writing about the pitfalls of communism, but though he may not have known it, his words were eerily prophetic in the context of the auto industry. Take, for example, the latest special edition from Alfa Romeo.

Created specifically for the UK market, the MiTo Turismo Sport is another example of a special edition that's hardly any more special than the model it's based on. In fact, all it seems to do is limit selection - to three colors (black, white or red) and two engine options (gasoline or diesel, each producing a paltry 95 horsepower). What's "special" about it is that it bundles several popular options - alloys, cruise control, Blue&Me infotainment system, etc - into one package that sells at a value. So it's special, as long as you would have ordered yours within those parameters anyway, or don't mind limiting your choices.

All special editions are special, but some are more special than others. This particular example, then, is more the former than the latter. Details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo Touring Sport

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa MiTo Touring Sport is more equal, less special than others

Alfa MiTo Touring Sport is more equal, less special than others originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Australian police hope to attract stares with Alfa MiTo cruiser

Noah Joseph — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:35:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Alfa Romeo, Police/Emergency, Australia

NSW Police-spec Alfa Romeo MiTo - Click above for high-res image gallery

If your aim in choosing a new car is to get noticed, there's no shortage of attention-grabbing wheels to pick from, but few cars get noticed as quickly as a police cruiser. Sure, the flashing lights and blaring sirens might help, but not as much as the looming threat of being ticketed. Still, Australia's New South Wales police department seems to think it needs some help getting noticed.

That's precisely why Sydney-area law enforcement has taken delivery of an Alfa Romeo MiTo. Noticeably bereft of emergency lighting, the MiTo will be used for community outreach and safety awareness programs. Whether the wee Alfa will prove more effective in its assignment than a Hummer H3 or Holden Commodore remains to be seen, but it might help the authorities catch up with the next F1 champion who tries spinning donuts on city streets.

Gallery: Australian Police Alfa Romeo MiTo

[Source: Car Advice via eurocarblog]

Australian police hope to attract stares with Alfa MiTo cruiser originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa MiTo Kit-One from Magneti Marelli Elaborazione isn't the GTA

Noah Joseph — Thu, 27 May 2010 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo MiTo Kit-One by Magneti Marelli Elaborazione - Click above for high-res image gallery

Upon reading his own obituary, Mark Twain once famously quipped, "The report of my death was an exaggeration." Turns out, with apologies to the famous poet, that the same could be said of the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA. The project may or may not be dead, but what we can tell you for certain is the spy shots that surfaced a couple of weeks ago were not of the GTA.

What we were actually looking at is a tuning kit by Magneti Marelli. Those who recognize the name may know it as Fiat's electronics division and a major OEM supplier, which produces everything from ECUs to headlights. It worked with Ford and Microsoft on the development of the Sync and Blue&Me in-car computer systems, and developed the Kinetic Energy Recovery System for Ferrari. In fact, the company's scope reaches so far that they claim their parts are in just about every new car on the road today, wherever it's made. Now the company is launching its own tuning division called Magneti Marelli Elaborazioni. The MiTo spied - as astute commenter "adpb" pointed out - was actually their first product, called the Kit-One.

The modification package is comprised of stiffer springs than lower the car by 30 millimeters, the "Parco Chiuso" dual-exit exhaust system with bypass valve, 305mm Brembo disc brakes, a competition ECU good for an extra 31 horsepower, 18-inch matte black wheels and a rather divisive body kit made by Carrozzeria Castagna Milano (who you might remember for their Aznom Corvette and various Fiat 500s) of which only 200 sets will be made. Each item can be ordered separately, and the division has also got packages in the works for the Fiat 500 and Grande Punto. And with their new facility going up in Auburn Hills, Michigan, we wouldn't be entirely surprised to see them modifying Chryslers, Dodges and Jeeps in the near future. In the meantime you can check out the MiTo with the Kit-One in the gallery below.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo Kit-One by Magneti Marelli Elaborazione

[Source: Magnetti Marelli Elaborazioni]

Alfa MiTo Kit-One from Magneti Marelli Elaborazione isn't the GTA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 May 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo return to U.S. confirmed with big ambition, Chrysler will provide pair of CUVs

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, SUV, Wagon, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept by Pininfarina - Click above for high-res image gallery

Italiophiles rejoice! Though the move isn't unexpected, Fiat's Sergio Marchionne has officially confirmed that the Alfa Romeo brand will make a return appearance to the United States starting in 2012.

The first vehicles that should hit American dealerships (of course, we don't yet know where the cars will be sold, but Chrysler's woefully underutilized dealer network would be a good bet...) will be the midsize Giulia, which will come in both sedan and wagon variants, along with a compact SUV built in the States using European Giullietta hatchback underpinnings.

One year later, Alfa plans to begin offering a five-door version of the beautiful MiTo hatchback in the States, which will be joined by a new Alfa Romeo Spider. Could it look something like the 2uettottanta concept from Geneva? Someone get Dustin Hoffman on the phone pronto.

Moving on to the 2014 model year, Alfa will redesign its compact Giullietta hatchback and send it to America. A second, larger SUV will show up in the same year and will be built in America using architecture borrowed from the next-gen Jeep Liberty.

There was plenty more news coming from the Fiat camp today. Stay tuned for a much more comprehensive breakdown of the Italian automaker's far-reaching plans for the next several years.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta by Pininfarina

[Source: Fiat]

Alfa Romeo return to U.S. confirmed with big ambition, Chrysler will provide pair of CUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo prepares special-edition MiTo for Maserati dealer network

Noah Joseph — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:27:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Luxury

Alfa Romeo MiTo for Maserati - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're dropping off a six-figure Italian exotic at the dealership for service, you expect to be loaned something special in return, right? That's why Fiat supplied Ferrari with a run of special-edition 500s for use in their European service network. (Heck, they even produced some for public consumption.) Now its classy kid sister is following suite with a special loaner car of its own.

Produced in a limited run of 100 units, these specially-prepared Alfa Romeo MiTos will be dispatched to Maserati dealers across Europe. Each is distinguished from the average MiTo by its Maserati Blu Oceano paint, special plaque on the center console and "Alfa Romeo for Maserati" sill plate. The special edition Alfa also comes equipped with top-of-the-range 170-horsepower, 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine, 18-inch wheels and rear spoiler, along with an interior decked out in sumptuous Pelle Frau leather and all the electronic bells and whistles on offer.

After Maserati gave Alfa the 8C Competizione, it's nice that Alfa - now under the same leadership as Maserati - can give a little something back. Details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo for Maserati

[Source: Maserati]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo prepares special-edition MiTo for Maserati dealer network

Alfa Romeo prepares special-edition MiTo for Maserati dealer network originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:27:00 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 Spins

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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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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2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Imola Edition to be released in Japan

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Japan, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Imola Edition - click above image for high-res gallery

We were saddened to learn that Alfa Romeo is under the impression that their cute yet handsome MiTo is too small for American consumption. But this feels like a slap in the face. Japan is getting 150 special Imola Edition MiTos, and man are they great looking. Painted in Imola Yellow, the cars also get 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers and chromed mirror caps to set them apart from regular MiTos. Inside features fancy Pelle Frau leather, Imola Yellow accents and a little plaque. The Imola Edition MiTos should hit the land of the rising sun in November of this year. There's precious little left to say, other than do want. Or is that unfair?

Gallery: 2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Imola Edition

[Source: leblogauto.com]

2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Imola Edition to be released in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo MiTo too small for the U.S.?

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST

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

Alfa Romeo MiTo - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Small cars have historically struggled in the land of the free, home of the brave. Typically regarded as an afterthought by Detroit, our current domestic crop (Focus, Aveo, Caliber) needs more fertilizer. Imported "penalty boxes" fair somewhat better, but for every Honda Fit there's a Daihatsu Charade. Long story short, profit margins are slim and Americans are big people with big families that drive big distances. However, BMW's new Mini made serious and surprising inroads by giving small car buyers lots of content and high style (and a high price tag). BMW's sold 1.5 million of them, and given the Mini's success, it seems like a no brainer that Alfa Romeo (maybe via Chrysler) would bring the sexy little MiTo to our shores. Italian styling, sporty handling and high MPGs seem like a winning combo. Sadly, no -- maybe.

According to Alfa Romeo CEO Sergio Cravero, the MiTo is, "probably too small for today's U.S. market." In case you're wondering, the MiTo is the size of a Honda Fit. He goes on to say that, "A preliminary product assessment for a sporty three-door small hatchback showed potential volumes in the U.S. right now are roughly 20,000 units a year. That is not enough to make it a viable business case." Worrying about business cases in the U.S. is definitely a new paradigm for Alfa. But we're not going to fret too much, as Alfa Romeos will be making their way to American dealerships sometime in 2011. The first of which will probably be the Milano, a five-door mid-sized hatchback that we'll see at the Geneva Motor Show. Still, regarding the apparent no-show of the MiTo, we're a little bummed.

Gallery: First Drive: Alfa MiTo

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Alfa Romeo MiTo too small for the U.S.? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Alfa MiTo GTA merely postponed, not canceled

Noah Joseph — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa MiTo GTA concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Following earlier reports that Alfa Romeo had axed plans to produce the MiTo GTA, the Italian automaker has reportedly clarified that the project has not been canceled completely, just postponed.

The MiTo GTA was unveiled in concept form at this year's Geneva Motor Show. At the time, Alfa said the car would be produced and on the market before the end of the year. Packing a 240hp 1.8-liter turbo four, the GTA was set to revive the company's performance badge with a package priced to undercut the Mini JCW. When harsh economic conditions hit - and Fiat started snapping up assets left and right - the hot hatch program reportedly took a hit. According to sources within the company, though, the automaker is still keen on getting it done... eventually. Certainly, that won't happen before the end of the year.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Alfa MiTo GTA merely postponed, not canceled originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Alfa Romeo cancels MiTo GTA hot hatch

Noah Joseph — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa MiTo GTA concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Oh, Alfa. We had such high hopes for you. The stoic Italian marque, it seemed, had wandered too far from its roots as a performance-oriented automaker anchored by decades of racing dominance. Heart-pumping roadsters gave way to mushy econo-boxes. And then came the 8C Competizione, whose dynamics may not be as inspiring as its looks (how could it?), but it signaled what we hoped was a new dawn for the resurgent automaker, even if it remained entirely out of reach for the common man.

Then Alfa followed up with the MiTo GTA, a positively drool-inducing hot hatch that debuted in concept form a few months ago at the Geneva Motor Show. Packing a 230-hp turbo four in an aggressive carbon fiber shell, the MiTo GTA looked nothing less than menacing. It was just a show car at the time, but Alfa said it would go into production by the end of the year. Well, according to emerging reports, that may not happen any time soon, if ever. Due to the financial crisis, Alfa has reportedly put the MiTo GTA on an indefinite hold. Does that mean it's been killed? Well, not necessarily, but we wouldn't recommend holding your breath. We'd save that for a hot lap behind the wheel... which may never come.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA

[Source: iMotor]

REPORT: Alfa Romeo cancels MiTo GTA hot hatch originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Rumormill

Alfa Romeo Kamal concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to automotive consulting firm IHS Global Insight, the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep lineups are going to look drastically different over the next few years under Fiat control. No surprises there, but the report goes on the forecast which current Chrysler vehicles will be dropped and which ones will be transferred to new platforms. We've already heard that the next Alfa Romeo 169 sedan will be built atop Chrysler's LX platform in Ontario, Canada and that the Fiat 500 will be built ASAP in Toluca, Mexico, but that's only the beginning.

If IHS is right, joining the 500 in Toluca will be the Jeep Panda, which, as you may have guessed, will be a version of the Fiat Panda wearing Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille. Furthermore, Alfa Romeo may get two new SUVs that would be built in Jeep factories in Jefferson, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio - one midsize 'ute called the GTX that's based on the WL platform that underpins the Jeep Grand Cherokee and a smaller one built on Fiat's C-EVO platform, which will also underpin the next Jeep Liberty. That leaves the unloved Jeep Compass and its somewhat more likable brother, the Patriot, to die slow and inglorious death.

Fiat's C-EVO platform will also spawn the next-gen Dodge Journey, Chrysler Sebring (and presumably the Dodge Avenger if it survives past its current form), and Dodge Caliber. Moving downward in size a notch will (finally) be the Dodge Hornet, which will forgo Bad Chrysler's old deal with Nissan in order to share its Fiat 199 platform with the Alfa Romeo MiTo, both of which will be assembled in Belvidere, Illinois sometime in 2011. Thanks for the tip, Dad!

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept

[Source: Global Insight]

Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Stopgap GTA: Novitec takes a stab at the Alfa MiTo

Noah Joseph — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Europe, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Novitec Alfa Romeo MiTo - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Alfa Romeo's spritely MiTo hatch may have been styled to look like the flagship 8C Competizione, but the performance gap between them is big enough to fit another entire model line. The MiTo GTA, previewed in concept form at this year's Geneva show, promises to close the distance some, but until it arrives, Novitec has come up with an answer of its own, and here it is.

The heart of any good mod job lies under the hood, and Novitec has plenty of options in store. For the gas-burning 1.4-liter turbo four, Novitec offers an auxiliary control module that can be installed in just five minutes and which adds an extra 31 horsepower to bring total output up to a respectable 186 and 0-60 time down to 7.4 seconds, or 0.7 seconds faster than stock.

For diesel models, Novitec also offers a module to boost power by about 20 horsepower on either the 1.3 or 1.6-liter JTD engines. Of course, the Dutch tuning house hasn't stopped there, offering a choice of sport springs to drop the height by 40mm or a fully adjustable coil-over set-up. A full aerodynamic package, stainless exhaust and 18" wheels coated in Pirelli rubber round out the package, which you can check out in the gallery below and the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Novitec Alfa Romeo MiTo

[Source: Novitec]

Continue reading Stopgap GTA: Novitec takes a stab at the Alfa MiTo

Stopgap GTA: Novitec takes a stab at the Alfa MiTo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Court documention reveals which Fiats and Alfas are destined for U.S.

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Sedan, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

Fiat 500 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Curious which of its models Fiat plans to send over to the United States to sell through its planned partnership with Chrysler? Wonder no more. The most recent set of documents filed in Chrysler's Chapter 11 proceedings offer a number of intriguing clues as to what we can expect to see in the coming years.

Tom LaSorda, current ChryCo Veep, suggests that Fiat has agreed to assemble a vehicle using its C-EVO platform at one of Chrysler's underutilized U.S. plants. Further, Robert Manzo, executive director of Capstone Advisory Group, has specifically named the Fiat 500, Grande Punto and Panda (tellingly, Manzo called the Panda a Jeep) along with the Mito and Milano from Alfa Romeo as models coming to the aid of Chrysler.

Joining these new models would also be Fiat's 3.0-liter diesel V6 and 1.4-liter four-cylinder Multiair engine line, along with the Italian automaker's dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which would replace the units Chrysler will no longer be receiving from Getrag. The biggest question left unanswered seems to be what will be left of Chrysler's current line?

Gallery: Fiat 500

[Source: Inside Line]

Court documention reveals which Fiats and Alfas are destined for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 May 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa MiTo Veloce debuts at AutoRAI Amsterdam

Noah Joseph — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:18:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Hatchback, Misc. Auto Shows, Alfa Romeo

Alfa MiTo Veloce - Click above to view in high resolution

The Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show last month certainly looked the business, but unfortunately, it's only a concept car -- for now. Alfa says they'll have it on the market soon, but in the meantime the Italian automaker unveiled another hot version of the premium sport hatch at the AutoRAI show in Amsterdam, Holland.

Although some details and teaser shots surfaced before the show kicked off, the Fiat group didn't release any new information on its latest sporty MiTo, so all we have to go on are reports circulating the interwebs. This is what we know: it's called the Veloce, and slots in between the current 155hp 1.4-liter turbo of the fully-spec'ed standard MiTo and the 240hp GTA with a 180 horsepower turbo four. It's also packing beefier brakes, a revised suspension, and an upgraded body kit including a front splitter, rear wing and side skits, plus big powder-coated white rims with matching white mirror caps and detailing. Sport seats and aluminum pedals round out the package on the inside, but until Alfa gets some official info out there, that's all we got.

Gallery: Alfa MiTo Veloce at AutoRAI 2009

[Source: autoblog.nl]

Alfa MiTo Veloce debuts at AutoRAI Amsterdam originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA concept

Noah Joseph — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:22:00 EST

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

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept

There are pie-in-the-sky concept cars and then there are coming-to-a-showroom-near-you concept cars. The Alfa MiTo GTA is the latter, and from what we've seen that's a good thing, especially as Fiat's new partnership with Chrysler may herald Alfa Romeo's return to North America at long last. Although Alfa is billing the MiTo GTA unveiled here at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept, company spokesmen say it should hit production later this year. And when it does, the 230-hp turbo four - displayed separately on Alfa's show stand - should stay, but we'd expect the racing buckets with rear-anchored harnesses to give way to four seats. The jury's still out on the carbon-fiber body panels and tarmac-chomping front air dam and rear diffuser, but so far we like what we see. The folks at Renaultsport and John Cooper Works have cause to feel otherwise, but we'll let you make up your own mind after viewing the photos in the gallery below.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA

Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Alfa MiTo GTA seeks to be new Euro hot hatch king

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Alfa MiTo GTA

Alfa's finally pulled the covers off the MiTo GTA, releasing a full set of specifications and a few new images of the hottest of hot hatches just ahead of the car's official debut at the Geneva Motor Show late next week. While the standard-grade MiTo is definitely a looker, the Italian automaker has added a major dose of sportiness by way of a 90-horsepower injection, handily passing the MINI John Cooper Works edition along the way. To go along with the added zip, Alfa's engineers have reduced the weight of the car through the use of carbon fiber for the roof, tailgate spoiler and mirror housings, along with aluminum replacements for many chassis and suspension parts.

The engine displaces just 1.8 liters, but an impressive 240 horsepower is extracted via turbocharging, direct-injection and variable valve-timing. Underneath the slinky skin are chassis modifications that lower the ride height by 20 millimeters, along with an "active suspension" and variable steering geometry that makes up the Alfa D.N.A. system, allowing the driver to tailor the car's feel to their specific preferences. Inside, unique anatomical seats with four-point seatbelts attached to the rear roll bar keep the driver secured and matte black surfaces are meant to limit distractions while racing around the track. There's plenty of additional details in the press release after the break, and be sure to check out our coverage next week from Geneva for live shots.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Alfa MiTo GTA seeks to be new Euro hot hatch king

Geneva Preview: Alfa MiTo GTA seeks to be new Euro hot hatch king originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Alfa Romeo to launch Junior sportscar based on MiTo

Noah Joseph — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:56:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Alfa Romeo, Rumormill

Click above to view a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo MiTo and 8C side-by-side

While the Alfa MiTo was under development, speculation placed a number of different nameplates on the sport hatch. One of them was Junior, but new reports suggest that Alfa may in fact be preparing an additional model to carry the Junior name.

Although the MiTo was earmarked to hold down the lower end of the Alfa Romeo range with styling drawn from the 8C Competizione, in terms of body style, at least, the new Junior may in fact be closer to the halo supercar - more of a sports coupe than a sport hatch. The platform will allegedly be based on the MiTo's, sharing some of the same engine options while introducing a new hydraulic manual as well as a new dual-clutch gearbox to the range. Little else is known about the Junior, but expect similar styling to the MiTo with a lower roofline and sleeker profile.

Sister company Lancia may yet get its own version to revive the Fulvia name, and given parent company Fiat's new alliance with Chrysler, we'd hope the new small sportscar might make it over the Atlantic as part of Alfa Romeo's long-anticipated return to the North American market.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo and 8C

[Source: 4Car]

REPORT: Alfa Romeo to launch Junior sportscar based on MiTo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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