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Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine

Eric Loveday — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 12:50:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Chrysler, Fiat, Alfa Romeo

Made almost entirely of aluminum and featuring direct injection, variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides and a high-efficiency turbocharger, the new-for-2013 1.8 liter gasser from Alfa Romeo and Fiat Powertrain Technologies is one of those downsized engines that combines all of the latest technologies into a single package.

This Euro VI-compliant turbo'd four-banger is designed to meet stringent emissions standards (U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5), while cranking out up to 300 horsepower. It's this engine that's expected to power the production version of the Alfa Romeo 4C and, given that it has been engineered to be mounted either in back or up front, longitudinally or transversely, it's sure to end up in other Alfa Romeo and Fiat vehicles, too. It's by no means a stretch to assume this 1.8-liter gasser will someday power at least a couple of future Chrysler vehicles, too, don't you think? Details in the press blast after the jump.

Continue reading Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine

Fiat details Euro-VI 1.8-liter 300 hp Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder engine originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo Guilietta gets second-gen Multijet diesel; returns 52.3 mpg

Eric Loveday — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:55:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, MPG, Alfa Romeo

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

Back in October, rumors started to fly claiming that the Alfa Romeo Giulietta would become the foundation for the Dodge Caliber's successor. It's assumed that the Alfa-based Caliber replacement will show up sometime in late 2011 as a 2012 model. However, it seems unlikely that the Guilietta's second-gen MultiJet diesel engine, dubbed the 2.0 JTDM-2, will make it Stateside.

That's rather unfortunate because the Euro 5-compliant 2.0-liter oil-burning mill not only cranks out a reasonable 138 horsepower and a remarkable 258 pound-feet of torque, it also returns a claimed 62.8 miles per gallon (52.3 mpg U.S.). In addition, the MultiJet emits 119 grams per kilometer of CO2, propels the Giulietta to 60 miles per hour in approximately nine seconds and on to a top speed of 127 mph.

Alfa Romeo claims that 2.0 JTDM-2 is an "engine designed for customers who appreciate excellent throttle response but are also concerned with fuel consumption and running costs," which seems to match the mentality of at least a portion of the U.S. car-buying public. Right?

[Source: Autocar]

Alfa Romeo Guilietta gets second-gen Multijet diesel; returns 52.3 mpg originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Chrysler planning Fiat-based 40 mpg Dodge Caliber replacement for 2011

Eric Loveday — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 12:36:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Chrysler, Fiat, Green Daily, Alfa Romeo

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

According to numerous reports, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta will serve as the foundation for a 2011 successor for the aging, lackluster Dodge Caliber. USA Today cites Sergio Marchionne, chief executive officer of Fiat and Chrysler, with throwing out the words that stirred up a slew of reports. The Detroit Free Press adds more fuel to the story by indicating that this new model, based on Fiat's C-EVO platform, will hit 40 miles per gallon and possibly even resemble the Giulietta in its final form.

Jeff Schuster, J.D. Power and Associates' director of global forecasting, points to the possibility that Dodge may not be the only brand to receive this upcoming 40-mpg model. Schuster believes that Chrysler could get a version, and, are you ready for this, the mighty Jeep brand might as well. Suppliers and consultants familiar with the project say that the vehicle will roll off the lines at Chrysler's Belvidere, IL plant late next year. Yesterday, Chrysler formally announced that it will invest $600 million to retool its Belvidere plant. Reports claim that this retooling will ready the site for production of a new generation of Fiat-based, fuel-efficient vehicles.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Report: Chrysler planning Fiat-based 40 mpg Dodge Caliber replacement for 2011 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 30 Oct 2010 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tesla twins get triple triumph in 4th Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Vehicle Rally

Domenick Yoney — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:53:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Tesla Motors, Europe/EU, Alfa Romeo, Racing

Tesal Roadsters participate in the 4th Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Rally - Click above for high-res gallery

Coinciding with the 2010 Salon EVER, the first event on this year's FIA Alternative Energy Cup calender has wrapped up. The Fourth Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Rally attracted well over 100 different vehicles of various sorts (but no hydrogen-powered ones) competing in three legs of a "regularity" race that saw them cover 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) over three days culminating in Monaco. The idea was to complete the courses as close to a predetermined time and as efficiently as possible. In the end, the Alfa Roméo Mito 170 driven by Aurélien Meuterlos topped the timing results with a perfect score of zero, having accumulated no penalties and finishing within one minute of the prescribed time. The twin Tesla entries may have finished a little further down the page, but they were tops in other categories and one of them bested last year's performance.

In all, the California company walked away with the overall FIA Cup, the Efficiency Cup and the Electric Vehicles Cup (class IIIA). The two-seater driven by Tesla Australia's general manager, Rudi Tuisk, drove the 390-kilometer (242 mile) off-the-range segment, from Annecy, France to Monaco with 66 km (41 miles) worth of energy left in the pack. While other EVs, including the Venturi Volage and Mitsubishi i MiEV were present for final leg in Monaco, it seems only the Tesla had the range capability necessary to compete in the full rally. Hit the jump for video featuring some more spirited driving on the final day of the event.

Gallery: Tesla Roadsters at the 2010 Fourth Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Rally

[Source: Automobile Club de Monaco / Tesla Motors]

Continue reading Tesla twins get triple triumph in 4th Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Vehicle Rally

Tesla twins get triple triumph in 4th Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Vehicle Rally originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Alfa Romeo Giulietta to debut compact platform for future Chryslers

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:55:00 EST

Filed under: Fiat, Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo

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

A strong C-segment (aka compact) vehicle platform has long been critical to the success of any automaker doing business outside of the United States. Increasingly, the same is becoming true here. Vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and their derivatives are generally the highest volume sellers in the rest of the world. It's no secret that Fiat wants to be among the biggest players in the auto industry and it is launching its new global C-platform in Geneva next month under the new Alfa Romeo Giulieta.

Like Ford, which is planning up to two million C-cars a year, Fiat is also thinking big with a million of its own offerings in that class, including 700,000 Chrysler vehicles. The new platform is designed to be stronger than its predecessors without being any heavier. Over 90 percent of the structure is comprised of high and ultra-high strength steels. The modular structure is also designed to be built in different lengths and widths for a variety of vehicles.

The new platform will form the basis of the replacements for the PT Cruiser and Dodge Caliber from 2012 onwards.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta

[Source: Alfa Romeo, Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Alfa Romeo Giulietta to debut compact platform for future Chryslers

Geneva Preview: Alfa Romeo Giulietta to debut compact platform for future Chryslers originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:14:00 EST

Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - click above for high res image gallery

The beauty of reporting on new Alfa Romeo models from North America is that, after years of false promises, we may now finally be on the verge of actually getting some of them over here again. The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be replacing the outgoing 147 some time after it debuts at the Geneva Motor Show next March. If Fiat does ultimately decide to offer the brand through its Chrysler alliance, this will probably one of the models. The sporty five-door hatch will have five engines available at launch and four will be turbocharged and include automatic start-stop.

The turbos will be split between gas and diesel burners with the spark ignition models displacing 1.4-liters and producing 120 and 170 hp (with MultiAir electronic valve control). The 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter diesels produce 105 hp and 170 hp. All of the engines are Euro-V compliant and the gas engines will likely appear in future Chrysler products as well. With any luck, we'll see this slightly-larger-than-Golf-sized hatch in about 2011.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop

New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo introduces LPG-powered MiTo

Xavier Navarro — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:06:00 EST

Filed under: Natural Gas, Europe/EU, Alfa Romeo

_{2009 Alfa Romeo MiTo Imola - Click for complete gallery}

Alongside the recently-launched MultiAir MiTos, Alfa Romeo has launched a dual-fueled LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) version of the Turbo 1.4-liter engine in the sexy hatchback. This model benefits from tax exemptions in many European countries, since it reduces CO₂ emissions down to 131 g/km. The engine retains the standard 120 hp and still makes 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 8.8 seconds. The 39-liter LPG reservoir is placed in the spare tire well and, together with the standard gasoline tank, allows the dual-fuel MiTo to run for 1,200 km (745 miles) non-stop. Prices start at €13,900 in Italy, thanks to €4,500 from the state.

[Source: Diario del Motor]

Alfa Romeo introduces LPG-powered MiTo originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo introduces cleaner, more powerful 1.4L MultiAir engine in the MiTo

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:39:00 EST

Filed under: Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Mi.To - Click above image for high-res gallery

Alfa Romeo has introduced a new downsized engine to the compact MiTo that will improve output while cutting fuel consumption and emissions. The so-called MultiAir 1.4-liter four cylinder is available in normally aspirated and turbocharged variants in three power levels: 105, 135 and 170 hp. The key to the MultiAir concept is an electro-hydraulic valve control that allows the engine management system to directly control the intake valves in response to driver acceleration demands without a throttle. BMW has had the same concept on its six cylinder engines for several years under the ValveTronic name.

The MultiAir system allows the engine to produce 10% more power and 15% more torque while consuming 10% less gas than a conventional throttle version of the same engine. CO₂ emissions are also cut by 10% while particulates and NOx are cut by 40% and 60% respectively. The MiTo with MultiAir will be available in Europe starting in September.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Mi.To

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo introduces cleaner, more powerful 1.4L MultiAir engine in the MiTo

Alfa Romeo introduces cleaner, more powerful 1.4L MultiAir engine in the MiTo originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Speeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as before

Xavier Navarro — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:19:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Renault, Citroen, Europe/EU, Germany, Alfa Romeo

If you're a diesel hater and you want to cruise down a German highway in style, there's nothing like a good coupé to fit the bill. European coupés offer comfort, sporty sensations and, usually, a paying a high price at the pump. But there's good news: the European market offers models that are low on carbon emissions and have decent fuel economy while still offering the refinement typically found on models with larger engines. Unfortunately, most of the models can't be found stateside but there's always hope that some might reach American shores. We found a list, which you can find after the jump, of the most fuel-efficient version of current European coupés. Enjoy.

[Source: Auto News]

Continue reading Speeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as before

Speeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as before originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo launching a frugal Mi.To version with a sub-?10,000 price tag

Xavier Navarro — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:44:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Europe/EU, Alfa Romeo

Click on image for more pictures of the Mi.To

Alfa Romeo has announced a new base version of its ~~Junior~~ ~~Furiosa~~ Mi.To. Fitted to a 1.4-liter gasoline engine, the Mi.To drops CO₂ emissions down to 138 g/km and consumes fuel at a rate of 5.9 l/100km (40 mpg U.S.). And all this for a price tag under €10,000 in most European countries. Of course, you can't expect a really sports car at that price, and the Mi.To gets by with 78hp and a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62mph) time of 12.3 seconds. Thankfully, Fiat's 1.3-liter diesel engine also finds a home under the Mi.To's hood. That's good for 90 hp and keeps fuel consumption to 4.1 l/100km (57 mpg U.S.) with CO₂ emissions of just 114 gm/k. The problem? A higher sticker price.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Mi.To

[Source: Auto News]

Alfa Romeo launching a frugal Mi.To version with a sub-?10,000 price tag originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Americans eager for Fiat and Alfa could get two Euro models soon

Xavier Navarro — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:14:00 EST

Filed under: Chrysler, Fiat, Alfa Romeo

Here's one more rumor from the Chrysler-Fiat merger: if you lust for a Fiat 500 or the soon-to-be released Alfa Romeo 149 (codenamed 940) you might be in luck. Automotive News quotes an anonymous source from the Italian manufacturer who said that the new group could start importing hundreds of European-made cars before the American-made cars arrive in showrooms. The two models named above might be distributed in the U.S. by selected Chrysler group dealers. Another rumor places up to four Fiat platforms with 1.4 and 1.8-liter 6-speed powertrains being developed for Chrysler while one American platform, the LX, might make the jump to Europe under the upcoming big Alfa Romeo, the 169.

[Source: Automotive News (subs. req'd)]

Americans eager for Fiat and Alfa could get two Euro models soon originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat and Alfa Romeo to introduce new engine line in Geneva

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:22:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Fiat, Geneva Motor Show, Frankfurt Motor Show, Alfa Romeo

The biggest news of the year so far has been the proposed strategic global alliance between Chrysler and Fiat, two automakers that have drastically differing lines spread across drastically different markets. Certainly, that deal with the American automaker isn't all that Fiat has going on, and the Italian automaker is set to unveil a new line of engines at the Geneva Motor Show next month. So far, all of the engines are expected to be introduced in four cylinder guise, running on both gas and diesel fuel. One of the more eagerly anticipated engines will displace 1.8 liters and will be offered in both Fiats and Alfa Romeos making between 170 and 230 horsepower. New technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing will be included.

On the diesel front, Fiat is also expected to debut its latest 1.3 liter Multijet 2 powerplant in either Geneva or Frankfurt. These new engines will use Fiat's Multiair electrohydraulic valve-actuation, which should both increase horsepower and efficiency. Will any of these small powerplants make it Stateside? Time will tell.

[Source: Channel 4]

Fiat and Alfa Romeo to introduce new engine line in Geneva originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The seven cars Fiat might give Chrysler

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:11:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Chrysler, Fiat, Green Daily, Alfa Romeo

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Fiat 500

We recently made our own list of five cars we want to see from the Chrysler/Fiat alliance and we've since heard that the 500 is a contender for 2010 U.S. release. Automotive News (subs req'd) is reporting that there are a full seven models that will soon come to North America thanks to the partnership, and they're all small to mid-sized vehicles. Here are the details:

Two minicars, a Fiat 500 3-door hatchback and a 5-door hatch version of the next-gen Panda
Two subcompact vehicles, the Alfa Romeo MiTo and a Chrysler-branded model
Two compacts, a model that uses Fiat's C-Evo platform (maybe replacing the Dodge Caliber) and a Alfa Romeo 147 replacement
One mid-sized vehicle, a Sebring/Avenger replacement from Fiat's C-Evo platform

This all makes a lot of sense for Chrysler, which doesn't have enough small car models to sell in the upcoming high-mpg world. What would Fiat get? Perhaps the Journey CUV and the Dodge Dakota pickup to sell in Latin America, easier access to the North American market, and an engine or two. A final decision should be made by the end of April, so don't count any of this as official just yet.

[Source: Automotive News (subs req'd)]

The seven cars Fiat might give Chrysler originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo MiTo scores 5-star rating on EuroNCAP crash test

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 11:21:00 EST

Filed under: Alfa Romeo

Click above image for a high res gallery of the MiTo

Alfa Romeo's new baby recently got put through the ringer in the EuroNCAP crash tests and passed with flying colors. The MiTo got a Good rating for whiplash protection from the testers and five stars all around for its ability to protect passengers during a vehicular altercation. Out of a possible 37 points in the primary evaluations, the MiTo received 36, the highest ever in the small car segment. The little Alfa also topped its class with 3.35 points out of four in the new whiplash evaluation. Alfa Romeo claims to have skipped the prototype build process with this car by extensive use of simulation before building the first cars in the production factory. Those cars were then subjected to 16 months of testing prior to introduction. Hopefully, Alfa will see fit to include this MINI competitor if and when it makes a full return to the US market that it has been promising for so long. We need attractive, fun-to-drive small cars to entice more Americans away from behemoths. Seeing that they can provide excellent safety properties will also help tremendously.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Mi.To

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo MiTo scores 5-star rating on EuroNCAP crash test

Alfa Romeo MiTo scores 5-star rating on EuroNCAP crash test originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo MiTo in UK dealerships shortly, deliveries start in January

Sebastian Blanco — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:23:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, UK, Alfa Romeo

click above for more of the MiTo

Been saving up for an Alfa Romeo MiTo? The tiny and stylish MiTo was previewed in March and is about to show up in UK dealerships. While the car officially goes on sale there at the end of January, it'll be in showrooms starting early next month. Prices will start at £10,975 for the entry level version that has a 1.4 16V 95BHP Turismo. Naturally, Alfa Romeo will gladly take your order as soon as you're ready to sign for the 36-49 mpg (depending on engine option) sexy beast. Now, when do we learn about a possible American introduction when the Alfa Romeo brand returns here in 2010? We already know we like it and we'll take the convertible, in case you were wondering.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Mi.To

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo MiTo in UK dealerships shortly, deliveries start in January

Alfa Romeo MiTo in UK dealerships shortly, deliveries start in January originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jealous? Here's a list of European sport diesel coupes the U.S. can't have

Xavier Navarro — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:04:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Citroen, Peugeot, Europe/EU, Germany, Alfa Romeo

Like cabrios, the "sport coupé" car segment has traditionally never been associated with diesel cars. But diesels have evolved - a lot - and modern sparkplug-less powertrains almost match gasoline cars in terms of sound-proofing and comfort while keeping fuel consumption down. The only issue is that these models listed after the jump, and correct me if I'm wrong, are only available for Europeans, where taxes on fuels and purchase schemes based on engine displacement and CO₂ emission levels favor diesel.

Check after the jump for a list that shows a significant diesel sport coupé for many car models. The list also includes four-door coupes and sport hatchbacks, which are marketed as coupes in Europe. All these models will get you cruising on the Autobahn at a high speed on a classy - and diesel - ride.

Gallery: European Diesel Coupes

Continue reading Jealous? Here's a list of European sport diesel coupes the U.S. can't have

Jealous? Here's a list of European sport diesel coupes the U.S. can't have originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MiTo convertible coming to the US in 2010?

Domenick Yoney — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:16:00 EST

Filed under: Europe/EU, UK, USA, Alfa Romeo

The rumors say that, if the Alfa Romeo MiTo makes it to America in 2010, there should be several different configurations available. Besides an estate and a three door, there could very well be a convertible quite similar to the snappy rendition shown above. Based on the Fiat Grande Punto platform, the drop-top would give the Mini convertible some competition for buyer's euros dollars. Early word is all four motor options, including a diesel, will be turbo-charged and capable of churning out 90 to a 155 galloping horses. No word on what kind of mileage figures to expect yet but we think it's safe to assume that it will meet and probably exceed those of it's BMW-built Mini competitor.

[Source: AutoExpress]

MiTo convertible coming to the US in 2010? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat 500 could come to America, via an American plant

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 27 May 2008 09:07:00 EST

Filed under: Fiat, Alfa Romeo

Fiat hasn't sold cars in the U.S. market in more than two decades, but they could be coming back within two years. At least the tiny 500 could be on its way. Fiat was already known to be looking for a location for a North American assembly plant to produce Alfa Romeos for our market. Alfas are scheduled to be on sale here around the end of 2009 and a plant is scheduled to be online by 2010. The same plant could also end up producing the 500. Speaking at a conference in Europe last week, Fiat Group CEO Sergio Marchionne declared that he felt the 500 could prove popular in the U.S. market and could be sold as a stand-alone brand in much the same way that MINI stands apart from parent BMW. Marchionne wants to finish rolling out the rest of the 500 lineup before launching it in the US. Next year a convertible will join the current 3-door hatch and a longer wheelbase model à la the MINI Clubman will follow a year later. If the 500 is built here, the upcoming Alfa Romeo Mi.To could also join the party, making for a fascinating lineup of small cars.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]

Fiat 500 could come to America, via an American plant originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 May 2008 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo to get crossovers, hybrids and stop/start

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 22 May 2008 20:33:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Fiat, USA, Alfa Romeo

Click above to view high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo Kamal concept

Car-obsessed Americans will get another chance at the historic Alfa Romeo brand soon enough, as the company is planning on a resurgence for the U.S. market. As is the current trend among automakers, along with the beautiful range of automobiles that the Italian marque will be bringing to our shores, it plans on offering a crossover as well. Expect something in line with BMW's current utility vehicle offerings. What's more interesting to us at AutoblogGreen, though, is a possible hybrid system snagged from Fiat, which owns Alfa. Even if the full hybrid drivetrain is left off the docket, at the very least, a mild hybrid system in the form of stop/start will almost assuredly be available.

As an aside, take a good look at the Kamal concept from 2003. Looks a bit like the Subaru Tribeca before its last redesign, wouldn't you say?

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via Autoblog]

Alfa Romeo to get crossovers, hybrids and stop/start originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 22 May 2008 20:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Alfa Romeo releases footage of Mi.To playing in the snow

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 16:27:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Alfa Romeo

At Geneva Motor Show earlier this month Alfa Romeo introduced their new mini-car, the Mi.To. Now they've released a cool video showing that just because a car is small and economical, it doesn't mean that fun has to be left behind. Back in my former life before I started writing full-time, I was a controls engineer developing software for ABS, traction and stability control systems. That required spending many winter weeks and months in snowy northern climes like Sault Ste. Marie and Arvidsjaur, Sweden. This particular video takes me back to those days of blasting around on frozen lakes in Sweden. The smaller cars, like Opel Astras, were usually the preferred vehicles for their toss-ability. It looks like the even smaller Mi.To again proves you don't need big power to have fun. Check out the video after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via World Car Fans]

Continue reading VIDEO: Alfa Romeo releases footage of Mi.To playing in the snow

VIDEO: Alfa Romeo releases footage of Mi.To playing in the snow originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 30 Mar 2008 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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