Alfa Romeo is currently looking to regain some ground in both Europe and North America with plans to roll out eight new or revised models by 2018. Critical to this plan is the 2016 Giulia, which the automaker officially revealed today during a special event in Modena, Italy.
The 2016 Giulia was introduced in range-topping Quadrifoglio Verde trim, which is said to be an answer to other compact performance models like the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63. A Ferrari-derived 3.0-liter V6 with 503 horsepower sits under the hood, capable of propelling the car from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. A six-speed manual model was shown in Italy, however dual-clutch automatic models are expected to be offered at some point.
Like so many other cars today, the Giulia was the subject extensive weight saving measures in order to maximize performance and fuel economy. Aluminium was used for the mirror housings, doors and rear crossmember, and a carbon fiber hood and roof are also present. A Multi-link rear and double-wishbone front suspension setup is used on every Giulia model, while all models, not just QV variants, will also boast perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
Exclusive to QV models will be an electronic Torque Vectoring System to properly distribute the power between the wheels, along with optional adaptive dampers. An electromechanical Integrated Brake System (AKA brake-by-wire) will also be used on the Giulia, and a new system called ‘Chassis Domain Control’ is said to seamlessly control all of the car’s different electronic systems.
The exterior of the car is described by Alfa as being “not overstyled,” with the automaker pointing out it can “be defined with just three strokes,” of a pencil. The front end is dominated by Alfa’s signature Treofoil V-shaped grille and large LED headlamps, while the rear features curvaceous LED tail lights. On QV models, quad exhaust pipes, a prominent rear diffuser and a front splitter are all present.
Inside the Giulia will give customers a choice of carbon fiber or wood trim, along with a range of fabric and leather materials for the various dash and seating surfaces. A push button start, controls for a drive selector with a ‘Race’ mode and a small sporty steering wheel are also seen.
More details on the Giulia, including info in regards to entry-level four-cylinder gasoline and diesel models, should become available at a later date.
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