conaero
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A NEW Alfa Romeo is always an exciting event and the replacement for the ageing 147, the Giulietta, is no disappointment in the good looks department. Like all Alfas it stands out from the crowd and makes a statement about the individuality of the driver. It goes on sale here in July and expect this Ford Focus/VW Golf 5-door rival to cost in the region of €23,000.
A MiTo big brother in the body style, the rear door handles are cleverly tucked away to give the impression of a 3-door with a strong sporty look. Fiat's new Compact Platform which will be used in forthcoming models from Turin is used here and the light-weight multi-link rear suspension uses aluminium to save 10 kg in weight. In common with the MiTo the driver can switch between Dynamic, Normal and all-weather modes for suspension stiffness.
A new fuel saving electric power steering is used and it is understood that a double clutch gearbox will eventually be on offer. Engines include a 1.6 litre 105 bhp and 2-litre 170 bhp diesel units with options of a 1.4 litre 118 bhp and 1.8 litre 235 bhp petrol units. All will come with Stop-Start fuel economy technology. More high powered petrol and diesel engines are available but will not be attractive here because of our clean air emission taxation policy.
The Giulietta will attract quite a lot of attention for its looks alone and there is a small but devoted fan base here. However, it will have a tough challenge matching the driving dynamics of cars like the Ford Focus and will need to be a far superior performer to win new friends. Ford has a new Focus model in the wings which will go on sale next year.
A MiTo big brother in the body style, the rear door handles are cleverly tucked away to give the impression of a 3-door with a strong sporty look. Fiat's new Compact Platform which will be used in forthcoming models from Turin is used here and the light-weight multi-link rear suspension uses aluminium to save 10 kg in weight. In common with the MiTo the driver can switch between Dynamic, Normal and all-weather modes for suspension stiffness.
A new fuel saving electric power steering is used and it is understood that a double clutch gearbox will eventually be on offer. Engines include a 1.6 litre 105 bhp and 2-litre 170 bhp diesel units with options of a 1.4 litre 118 bhp and 1.8 litre 235 bhp petrol units. All will come with Stop-Start fuel economy technology. More high powered petrol and diesel engines are available but will not be attractive here because of our clean air emission taxation policy.
The Giulietta will attract quite a lot of attention for its looks alone and there is a small but devoted fan base here. However, it will have a tough challenge matching the driving dynamics of cars like the Ford Focus and will need to be a far superior performer to win new friends. Ford has a new Focus model in the wings which will go on sale next year.
