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The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a far better car than the 147. That may be no great revelation - the 147 has been knocking around for a full decade now, and has long been usurped by younger, lither rivals - so here's a bigger one: the Giulietta might just be the best car that Alfa has built in its 100 years of existence.
What it is: An Italian five-door hatchback about the size of a VW Golf.
Why it matters: The Giulietta is expected to be one of the first models in Alfa’s much-delayed return to America. The platform is likely to be shared with one or more Chrysler products, which means that U.S.-market versions eventually may be built in North America.
Platform: This all-new transverse-engine, front-drive Fiat platform is creatively code-named “Compact.” It will be the basis for a number of Alfas and some Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge products. The chassis consists of a strut front suspension and a multilink rear.
Powertrain: A 1.4-liter turbo four should make 170 horsepower, and a 1.8-liter turbo four should produce 235 horses.
Competition: Audi A3, BMW 1-series, Mazdaspeed 3, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI.
What might go wrong: Alfa Romeos—and Italian cars in general—still don’t enjoy a sterling reputation for quality.
Estimated arrival and price: On sale in Europe this summer, with the American version arriving in 2012, the Giulietta opens at about $23,000. Alfas will be sold through Chrysler dealers.
