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Alfa Romeo’s successor to the 159 saloon will revive the historic Giulia name, Autocar has learned.
The resurgent Italian brand plans to base the new car on a slightly longer version of the forthcoming 149 platform. The wheelbase will be extended to about 2.7 metres, with the commonality helping to streamline manufacture and cut costs.
Italian insiders say the current 159’s platform (developed mainly by Saab when GM and Fiat were partners) is too heavy, too expensive to build and is also unlikely to meet the new US crash regulations.
Like its smaller 149 sibling, the Giulia is being prepared for launch in the US, so Alfa must ensure that both cars will meet all environmental and safety standards on both sides of the Atlantic.
The 159’s disappointing sales performance means that the Giulia is being rushed through the development stages, and is likely to be unveiled in 2010. Insiders confirm that Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne has recently signed-off the styling of the new saloon.
The Giulia is expected to follow the design trend set by the Mito and will have 8C Competizione-derived looks.
Hilton Holloway
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