Currently reading: Jeep base for Alfa SUV
Alfa Romeo wants larger SUV for US buyers - and it could use a Jeep platform

Alfa Romeo is planning to use the four-wheel-drive underpinnings of the Jeep Grand Cherokee as the base for a second SUV in its line-up, ahead of its planned re-entry into the US market in 2013.

Already well advanced on a compact BMW X3 rival, based on a four-wheel-drive version of Fiat's C-segment platform, the Italian car maker is also preparing a larger and more upmarket SUV to go up against the BMW X5, according to its head of development, Harald Wester.

Wester outlined Alfa Romeo’s new model plans in a recent interview. "In 2012 we plan to launch a successor to the 159," he said. "At around the same time we'll introduce a compact SUV. A year later, in 2013, follows a new Spider. After that there will be an even larger SUV."

Nothing has been made official , but insiders say Alfa Romeo's future range-topping model will sit on the same GC-designated platform as the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee – a structure originally developed by DaimlerChrylser that shares elements with the structure used by the Mercedes-Benz M, R and GL-classes.

The big question is whether Wester will look to the Jeep Grand Cherokee plant in Detroit, Michigan to produce the large Alfa Romeo SUV or run it down production lines at Magna in Austria. With BMW and Mercedes-Benz already producing the X5 and M-class in North America, the first of those scenarios is not without precedent.

Wester says Alfa Romeo's long-term goal is global sales of 350,000 - up from just 120,000 in 2009. Alfa Romeos will be sold through Chrysler dealerships with their own separate showrooms in the US.

 

Join the debate

Comments
16
Add a comment…
Dan McNeil v2 13 November 2010

Re: Jeep base for Alfa SUV

fhp11 wrote:
The new Grand Cherokee is getting Rave reviews in N.America. Its new Platform, co-developed with Mercedes-Benz will underpin the Next generation ML. Its somthing like 150% stiffer than a BMW X5.

So, it's 150% stiffer than a BMW X5.

Big deal - the average SUV buyer is really going to notice that.

All the extra stiffness in the world won't eliminate the extra weight, the higher centre of gravity, the compromised suspension system, the increased roll angles, and the power and fuel-sapping 4x4 system that comes with SUV ownership.

The real question is: given Alfa Romeo's sporting heritage, and given the above limitations that are imposed on a 4x4 SUV, will an Alfa SUV be worthy of the Alfa badge?

Mr_H 13 November 2010

Re: Jeep base for Alfa SUV

fhp11 wrote:
I love it how the critical Twats who know absolutely nothing come in with their stupid comments! Its so predictable.....
1. Please moderate your language. 2. A Jeep Cherokee is NOT an Alfa Romeo. 3. The Porsche Cayenne is just about the most pointless vehicle there is, as will any Maserati attempt to emulate it - car companies only build SUVs because the US market demand them - and we all know how much the US loves a great handling car - right Bandit?

Mr_H 13 November 2010

Re: Jeep base for Alfa SUV

Bogwoppit wrote:
I don't think any real Alfisti will welcome an SUV no matter what its basis. From an 'is it a real Alfa POV' it's going to be a resounding no
As an Alfisti, I have to say that you're bang on the money there! I'm still trying to come to terms with the Guillietta's less than beautiful styling, let alone the idea of an Alfa school-run special. However, Alfa have tried a jacked-up 4x4 before, in the form of the 156 Crosswagon - http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/48337/alfa_156.html It just didn't make it over here. (The original 33 Sportwagon was also 4x4, but in an attempt to emulate Audi's 'Quattro' range).