04.08.2010

Appearing for the first time at the Geneva International Motor Show the Alfa Giulietta stole the show. We are now delighted to be able to confirm full details of the Alfa Giulietta for Ireland.

In the centenary year of Alfa Romeo the name Giulietta is a tribute to an Alfa Romeo icon of the Fifties. As a brand synonymous with motor sport the Alfa Giulietta of the Fifties made the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo a reality. (Below the Alfa Giulietta Sprint from 1954)

Whilst looking back to our heritage for a suitable name, the Alfa Giulietta of 2010 charts the way forward for others to follow. Engineering excellence has long been a hallmark of Alfa Romeo.
Key features to note on the new Alfa Giulietta are:

New ‘Compact Architecture’

The Alfa Giulietta comfortably seats five and has an impressive 300 litre boot space. Yet there is no compromise with driving dynamics. The new platform saves weight through the use of magnesium, aluminium and high strength steels. This has kept weight down whilst improving rigidity. The result is a vehicle that combines comfort/practicality with a sporty/entertaining nature.

The compact architecture has also been designed for optimal safety. The Alfa Giulietta follows the Alfa 159 and Alfa MiTo in being awarded a 5-star safety rating by Euro NCAP. With an overall score of 87/100 the Alfa Giulietta is the safest compact car ever beating every other car in its category.

Dual Pinion Active Steering

This steering system delivers the true Alfa Romeo experience behind the wheel. Benefits include:

• Direct, sensitive steering in all driving conditions
• Full integration with Alfa Romeo D.N.A and vehicle dynamic control systems
• Great driving comfort due to variable power-assisted steering
• Turning circle of just 10.9m for ease of use around town

Advanced Macpherson front suspension
Built with aluminium to save weight and ensure crisp approaches to corners.

Multilink Rear suspension
A rarity for Segment C. The Multilink rear suspension offers great road-holding properties and a superior level of comfort. In addition, this system has been designed to allow greater useful luggage space and is built from aluminium to save weight.

Engines
At the heart of every Alfa Romeo is the engine. The Alfa Giulietta is available with some of the most technologically advanced engines in the market.

Three petrol:

• 1.4 TB 120bhp (Band C)
• 1.4 MultiAir TB 170bhp (Band B)
• 1750 TBi 235bhp (Band E)

And two diesel engines are available.

• 1.6 JTDM-2 105bhp (Band A)
• 2.0 JTDM-2 170bhp (Band B)

All engines are Euro 5 compliant and feature Start&Stop with the exception of the 1750TBi 235bhp.

MultiAir
This revolutionary engine technology that debuted on the Alfa MiTo is also available for the Alfa Giulietta. Prospective customers will appreciate the following benefits of MultiAir:

1. Increase in maximum power
2. Increase in low-rpm torque
3. Lower fuel consumption
4. Lower CO2 emissions

In a segment dominated by the diesel engine Alfa Romeo is the first manufacturer to offer a petrol alternative to rival the diesel engine’s fuel-efficiency. The 1.4 MultiAir TB 170bhp petrol engine and the 2.0 JTDM-2 170bhp engine are both in VRT Band B.

1750TBi 235bhp
The 1750TBi engine has been chosen to power the range topping Alfa Giulietta Cloverleaf.

The Cloverleaf symbol appeared for the first time in the 1920s on the four “RL Targa Florio” cars specifically prepared by Giuseppe Merosi for the “Gran Siciliana”. This was one of the most prestigious races of the 1920s.

Towards the end of the race the “RL” of Ascari broke down 200m from the finishing line. Sivocci who had been in second finished the race 1st and secured the Alfa Romeo team their first international victory. The power of the Cloverleaf symbol was born.

Unfortunately, on the 8th September 1923, at the “Gran Premio d’Europa” in Monza, Sivocci lost his life in a tragic accident. His car had not been sporting the treasured Cloverleaf symbol. As a mark of respect the team removed a corner from the square Cloverleaf background to signify Sivocci’s absence. From 1924, Alfa Romeo race cars displayed the Cloverleaf symbol on a triangular background.

After World War II the Cloverleaf symbol was used to distinguish sporting versions of Alfa Romeo models.

Style
The hidden rear door handles give the five door Alfa Giulietta the style of a coupé, but the 300 litre boot space and seating for five adults make this a practical car to be driven every day.

Trim levels
As with the Alfa MiTo there will be four trim levels. Turismo, Lusso, Veloce and Cloverleaf.

Standard Equipment
The new Alfa Giulietta has an impressive array of safety systems as standard. These include VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) with Hill Holder and the Alfa Romeo D.N.A system. This system incorporates Electronic Q2 which works in conjunction with the braking system to simulate the presence of a mechanical limited slip differential for improved road-holding and increased lateral grip when cornering.

Six airbags – driver, passenger, two front side and two window airbags.

Whilst the distinctive front and rear LEDs are to be admired for their aesthetic quality they are also Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that improve visibility to other road users – a key safety feature.

Turismo – as standard

• Manual air conditioning
• Black Sprint fabric upholstery
• 60/40 split folding rear seats
• Radio/CD/MP3 player with 6 speakers
• Rear spoiler
• Electric rear windows
• 16” steel wheels with spoke design rims and 205/55 R16 tyres

Lusso – as standard
Synonymous with ‘Luxury’ in Italian, the Lusso trim level offers great functionalities such as Dual-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel in leather with audio/phone controls, leather gear lever and Blue&MeTM.
In addition to Turismo:

• Alfa code immobiliser and alarm system (includes Safe Lock)
• Fog lights
• Chrome line (chrome plated window frame)
• Sports dials with white illumination
• Steering wheel in leather with audio/phone controls
• Leather gear lever
• Cruise control
• Front armrest with storage compartment
• Blue&MeTM (Bluetooth with voice commands and MP3 player with USB port)
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Competizione fabric upholstery in Black or Black/Grey
• Visibility Pack (rain sensor + windscreen with antiglare band + Air Quality System + moisture sensor + electrochromatic rear view mirror + dusk sensor)
• 16” 5 double spoke alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 tyres

Veloce – as standard
In Italian, Veloce literally means ‘fast’ and there are some key features that give the Veloce trim level its meaning. 17” Turbine design wheels with 225/45 R17 tyres, side skirts, lowered sports suspension, satin effect wing mirrors, darkened headlights, aluminium sports pedals, aluminium kick plates and a dark brushed aluminium insert for the dashboard are all standard.

In addition to Lusso specification (not including Visibility Pack):

• Darkened headlights
• Satin effect wing mirrors
• Side skirts
• Sports suspension
• Darkened interior roof lining
• Aluminium kick plates
• Aluminium sports pedals
• Dark brushed aluminium dashboard insert
• Sports leather steering wheel with red stitching mounted with audio/phone controls
• Leather and microfiber upholstery
• 17” Turbine design alloy wheels with 225/45 R17 tyres
• 17” steel space saver spare wheel for 17”/18” alloy wheels

Cloverleaf – as standard
The iconic Cloverleaf emblem signifies the most sporty version of the Alfa Giulietta. This trim level is only available in combination with the high performance 1750 TBi 235bhp engine. In addition to the Veloce trim level Cloverleaf contains the following as standard:

• Rear dark tinted windows
• Cloverleaf emblem (both front left and right wings)
• Red brake callipers
• Visibility Pack
• 18” Perforated design alloy wheels with 225/40 R18 tyres

Advertising
Uma Thurman has been chosen as the face of the Alfa Giulietta and will appear in television and print campaigns.

Appearing for the first time at the Geneva International Motor Show the Alfa Giulietta stole the show. We are now delighted to be able to confirm full details of the Alfa Giulietta for Ireland.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

22.07.2010

Alfa Romeo celebrates its centenary at the Top Gear Festival 2010 and what better way to commemorate 100 years of stylish and technologically advanced automobile manufacturing than to introduce another innovative model to the range; the Alfa Giulietta.

Top Gear Festival promises to be "BIGGER LOUDER FASTER!" for 2010 and Alfa Romeo is substantiating it with the high profile display of the award winning Alfa Giulietta in Ireland. Having made its world preview at the recent Geneva International Motor Show, everyone has been waiting anxiously to catch a glimpse of the remarkable vehicle and now is their opportunity. The Giulietta will be on display at the Alfa Romeo stand in the ‘Motor Arena’ alongside the stylish Alfa MiTo and the much admired Alfa 8C Competizione supercar.

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a five-door hatchback with the perfect blend of sportiness and style. The front displays a brand new interpretation of the classic shield, embedded in the front bumper and suspended between the air vents. The side profile portrays fluid lines due to the coupé appearance of the windows and concealed rear door handles. The rear, like the front and side, features distinct styling which emphasises the feeling of a muscular car, firmly gripped onto the road surface. The measurements of the new car amount to a compact and dynamic shape, while at the same time guaranteeing excellent comfort for five adults and a spacious boot.

The Alfa Giulietta boasts class leading engines for performance and fuel-efficiency. Having already debuted on the Alfa MiTo, MultiAir engine technology is also available for the Alfa Giulietta. In total 4 Turbo-charged engines are available, all of which are Euro 5 compliant and are fitted with Start&Stop as standard. Petrol engines are a 1.4TB 120bhp and a 1.4 MultiAir TB 170bhp, diesel engines are a 1.6 JTDM-2 105bhp and a 2.0 JTDM-2 170bhp.

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta has been awarded the prestigious Euro NCAP 5-star rating and an overall score of 87/100; an extraordinary result that makes it the safest compact car ever. This class-leading safety result can be attributed to the new 'Compact Architecture' which uses aluminium and magnesium to save weight yet maintain rigidity. The 'Compact Architecture' interacts in synergy with Dual-Pinion Active steering, Multilink rear suspension, advanced MacPherson front suspension and the Alfa Romeo D.N.A system to deliver the optimal blend of sporty driving dynamics, comfort and everyday practicality.

The stylish Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be on display at the Alfa Romeo stand throughout the 3 day festival, so make sure to come along and view the new class leading Alfa Giulietta.

Alfa Romeo celebrates its centenary at the Top Gear Festival 2010 and what better way to commemorate 100 years of stylish and technologically advanced automobile manufacturing than to introduce another innovative model to the range; the Alfa Giulietta.

Alfa Romeo arrives in style at Top Gear Live Festival 2010

08.07.2010

The FPT 1.4 Turbo engines, the first to incorporate revolutionary Multiair technology, won the prestigious "Engine of the Year" award in the best new engine of the year category. These innovative four-cylinder engines combine Multiair, the electro-hydraulic management of the inlet valves, with turbocharger, setting new efficiency standards.

Developed and manufactured by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The top range 170 bhp version, with 124 bhp/litre, has an outstanding specific power output which, combined with peak torque of 250 Nm, guarantees sporty performances, but also record-setting fuel consumption and emissions.

Multiair technology, which already won numerous prizes, is based on direct control of the intake air, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke, without a throttle valve, and it reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as 10%, while increasing the power output by 10% and improving torque by 15%. What is more, all polluting emissions are also reduced by careful monitoring of combustion. Multiair technology is versatile, easily applicable to all petrol engines, and has the potential to be developed for diesel engines in future.

The "Best New Engine of the Year" award, assigned by an international jury of 65 specialist journalists from 32 countries, was collected by Aldo Marangoni, FPT Product Engineering Vice President.

"The award is further confirmation of the Fiat Group’s acknowledged capacity for technological innovation; the Group had already won the prize in 2005, in the 1.0 to 1.4 litre capacity class of the "International Engine of the Year", with the small but sophisticated 1.3 Multijet, which opened a new chapter in the history of diesel engines, a field in which the Group has always been a leader, having been the first to launch innovations such as direct injection and common-rail technology on the market", said Aldo Marangoni.

"Lots of power combined with serious inroads made in emissions reduction makes this a very good engine. Then, when you look at the fuel economy, Fiat's MultiAir turbo powertrain becomes a great engine - it's easy to see why it has won Best New Engine for 2010", said Dean Slavnich, Co-Chairman of the Awards, and editor of Engine Technology International.

The FPT 1.4 Turbo engines, the first to incorporate revolutionary Multiair technology, won the prestigious “Engine of the Year” award in the best new engine of the year category. These innovative four-cylinder engines combine Multiair, the electro-hydraulic management of the inlet valves, with turbocharger, setting new efficiency standards.

Fiat Group wins "ENGINE OF THE YEAR" award

01.07.2010

Italian sporting car manufacturer, Alfa Romeo, is delighted to be the featured marque at this year's prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex (2-4 July, 2010) as the company celebrates 100 years of proud motoring heritage.

As would be expected, a long list of prized historic Alfas will feature at this year's Festival, including the 1925 World Championship winning Alfa P2 Grand Prix race car which joins its modern counterpart, the Alfa 8C Competizione on the Centenary central sculpture which proudly celebrates Alfa Romeo - with design inspiration taken from the marque's iconic Cloverleaf badge.

In all, it is expected that over 50 important Alfa Romeos will be at this year's Festival, including 16 priceless examples which will make the pilgrimage from the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo in Arese, Italy. Four of these, the 8C 2900 B Speciale tipo Le Mans 1938, Gran Premio Tipo B (P3) 1932, Gran Premio Tipo 159 'Alfetta' 1951 and 155 DTM 1993 will be seen in action on the Goodwood Hillclimb course.

The Hillclimb is the Festival of Speed's principal attraction. Taking place throughout the weekend, this challenging 1.16 mile course starts as a tree-lined run through the southern corner of the Goodwood Estate which then turns to sweep past the front of Goodwood House before climbing a steep and narrow Estate road bordered by flint walls and dense woodland groves towards Goodwood's equine racecourse on top of the magnificent South Downs.

The course rises over 300ft from the start line to the finish, and is very technical and challenging, putting the skills of the world's very best drivers to a stern test of concentration and speed.

The remaining 12 historic Alfa Romeo models will be 'shared' between the Cartier 'Style et Luxe' concours d'elegance and the Cathedral Paddock, while the P2 Grand Prix racer features on the Centenary central sculpture.

In the Supercar paddock, Alfa's latest supercar offering, the convertible 8C Spider, will be turning heads with its award-winning looks and distinctive V8 growl as it makes its way past the crowds, up the historic Goodwood Hill.

Appearing as part of the magnificent static display in the Cathedral paddock will be historic delights such as the Alfa Gran Premio Tipo 512 1940, the car that never raced due to the advent of World War Two, and the 164 Pro-Car which features the world's first ever 10 cylinder engine.

Alongside this exhibition of exceptional racing heritage, the 33 Stradale prototipo 1967 will grace the Cartier lawn, showing the crowds why Alfa Romeo design has been so highly revered through the decades.

Designed by Franco Scaglione, this 1967 prototype was the most expensive car of its time and considered to be one of the most beautiful cars ever made.

Located on the front lawn of Goodwood House, and designed to embody the spirit of Alfa Romeo, the Centenary central sculpture showcases two of the marque's most important cars; the iconic 1925 World Championship winning Alfa P2 Grand Prix racer which led to the introduction of the laurel wreath around the original Alfa Romeo emblem, and the ultra-modern, award-winning, Alfa 8C Competizione super car.

Revered artist and designer of the Alfa Romeo Centenary central sculpture, Gerry Judah says: "With such a vast and rich heritage, trying to encapsulate all that is great about Alfa Romeo was no easy task. So many factors played a part in the creative process, from the beauty of the cars themselves which are often art forms in their own right, to the passion the marque shows and holds in so many hearts - I felt it was important that the sculpture complemented and expressed these messages.

"The perfect way of communicating this was to use two of Alfa's most iconic cars - past and present - the P2 and the 8C Competizione - both legendary in their own right with the connection of the first and most recent Alfa Romeo to feature an Alfa eight-cylinder engine.

"Translating their connection and representing the best of all that is Alfa Romeo, there was no better symbol to take inspiration from than Alfa's famous Cloverleaf badge, which has donned past, present and hopefully future high performance Alfa Romeos. The easiest part of this project was choosing a representative colour - which of course had to be Alfa Red".

Goodwood Festival of Speed organiser, Lord March added: "Alfa Romeo has one of the most enviable pedigrees of any motor manufacturer, and a history that has become legend. With this year's Festival celebrating 'The Passion of Speed' there couldn't be a more appropriate marque to celebrate this with. As an Alfista myself, the brand epitomises the beauty of motoring, and I'm honoured that we can help celebrate Alfa Romeo's Centenary at this year's Festival. And I look forward to a bright future for the marque through the debut of the new Alfa Giulietta."

Italian sporting car manufacturer, Alfa Romeo, is delighted to be the featured marque at this year’s prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex (2-4 July, 2010) as the company celebrates 100 years of proud motoring heritage.

Alfa Romeo Celebrates Centenary At Goodwood Festival of Speed

02.06.2010

5 star Euro NCAP safety rating
Alfa Romeo Giulietta has been awarded the prestigious Euro NCAP five-star rating and an overall score of 87/100: an extraordinary result that makes it the safest compact ever.

The rating is even more important considering that since 2009 Euro NCAP has adopted a new scheme composed of four areas of assessment, namely Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Pedestrian Protection and a new area: Safety Assist. Injury avoidance and mitigation functions, such as seat belt reminder, ESP and speed limiter, are also rated. Achieving a five-star rating will become increasingly tougher year by year (2009, 2010-2011, 2012). In this scenario, the rating achieved by the Alfa Romeo Giulietta (97% Adult Occupant, 85% Child Occupant, 63% Pedestrian Protection and 86% Safety Assist) means that the car will also have five-star rating in 2012 when the system will have reached maximum severity.

Giulietta safety features
This major accolade yet again confirms Alfa Romeo’s special commitment to all aspects relating to the protection of all road users. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed and built to obtain maximum passive and active safety performance. Proof of this, for instance, is the adoption of the most advanced electronic dynamic control devices (for braking and traction): the Vehicle Dynamic Control system, which manages key functions, like Hill Holder, traction control and assisted panic braking, the MSR system, which prevents wheel locking when the throttle is released, the DST (Dynamic Steering Torque) system, Electronic Q2, which electronically “simulates” the presence of a self-locking differential, and the brand-new Prefill system, which alerts the braking system that the accelerator pedal has been released to decrease intervention time and consequently braking distance.

“Compact” architecture
Thousands of hours of virtual simulations enabled the creation of the new “Compact” architecture – which is making its debut on the Giulietta – and the entire car using only four prototypes. The quality of virtual design was later materially put to the test on the cars made at the Cassino plant by running two hundred tests on components and subsystems, more than one hundred Hyge slide shock test simulations and more than eighty crash tests (frontal impact, side impact, roll-over and shunting, taking various speeds, different types of obstacles and the need to protect occupants physically very different from one another into account). These numbers confirm the profound commitment to making the Alfa Romeo Giulietta one of the safest cars in Europe by containing the most advanced safety systems.

Total protection
Total protection, in short, as evidenced by six airbags as standard (two of which Multistage), three-point seatbelts with double pretensioners and load limit limiters and SAHR (Self Aligning Head Restraint), a new second-generation device built into the backrests of the front seats that moves the head restraints closer to the occupants’ heads in the event of a crash to lessen the effects of whiplash. Without forgetting the contribution to occupant and pedestrian protection provided by the body, the bonnet, the doors and the dashboard crossmember, in addition to the seats and steering column. The efficacy of all these devices is maximised by a three load line front structure that guarantees structural uniformity and consequently uniformity of response in the event of frontal impact regardless of the type of obstacles or vehicle that the car crashes into. This is a breakthrough in partner protection, because the vehicle is less aggressive when crashing into the front or side of another vehicle, and in self protection, because the uniform deformation makes the retaining systems more effective regardless of the type of crash.

Finally, in the field of preventive safety, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta adopts headlamps with Daytime Running Lights that are automatically turned on when the engine is started – to meet a specific European standard that will come into force in 2012 – and LED tail lights, brighter than conventional bulbs, for extra safety.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta has been awarded the prestigious Euro NCAP five-star rating and an overall score of 87/100: an extraordinary result that makes it the safest compact ever.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta: the safest compact ever

27.05.2010

Alfa Romeo Ireland announces the lucky winner of the competition “Win a Trip for 2 to Milan” as DIT student Jennifer Whitehead.

Jennifer Whitehead, is the lucky winner of a trip for 2 to Milan, fashion capital of the world, weekend use of a stylish Alfa Romeo MiTo, a chance to stay in a trendy hotel frequented by top supermodels and €500 spending money.

While in Milan Jennifer will have the opportunity to travel in elegance and view the city through the window of a stylish Alfa MiTo; a 3 door sporty supermini for the chic young driver. It supersedes many competing models by maintaining its stylish appeal despite its compact size. It’s the perfect car for the fashion conscious buyer seeking a stylish car with the added bonus of an affordable price tag (starting from €14,495 including Government Scrappage bonus)

The competition “Win a Trip for 2 to Milan” is provided by Alfa Romeo Ireland as part of its sponsorship initiative of the DIT Alfa Romeo Fashion Show 2010.

Alfa Romeo Ireland announces the lucky winner of the competition “Win a Trip for 2 to Milan” as DIT student Jennifer Whitehead.

Win a trip for 2 to Milan

24.05.2010

Alfa Romeo Ireland provides viewers of the first ever episode of RTE's new chat show, 'The Saturday Night Show' hosted by broadcaster Brendan O’Connor with the opportunity to win a stylish new Alfa MiTo car.

The competition aired on the first episode of The Saturday Night Show on Saturday, 20 January, 2010 and lines were left open until midday Friday, 05 February, 2010.

Michael Sweeney from Kilmacowen in Co. Sligo is the winner of an elegant sporty 2010 Alfa MiTo. He collected the keys on Monday, 24th May, 2010 in Alfa Romeo’s flagship South Dublin dealership, ‘South Dublin Fiat Alfa Romeo’.

In order to win the car Michael answered the question “Complete the title of this popular movie/musical about a magic car- Chitty Chitty..” correctly with the answer “Bang Bang” and as a result he drove home in a stylish 2010 Alfa MiTo.

The Alfa MiTo is a 3 door sporty supermini loaded with advanced technology including the ground-breaking MultiAir engine technology; delivering up to 10% lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in contrast to traditional petrol engines. It also comes with a 3 year warranty and a 5 star safety rating. The Alfa MiTo range starts as low as €14,495 including Scrappage (RRP: €15,995).

Alfa Romeo Ireland provides viewers of the first ever episode of RTE's new chat show, 'The Saturday Night Show' hosted by broadcaster Brendan O’Connor with the opportunity to win a stylish new Alfa MiTo car.

The Saturday Night Show Competition

12.05.2010

Advertising campaign for Giulietta Launch
Famous actress Uma Thurman and William Shakespeare's verses - "We are such stuff as dreams are made on" - are featuring in the advertising campaign that will be revealing the multifaceted soul of the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta ahead of the presentation to the public at Italian dealerships scheduled for 22 and 23 May.

Uma Thurman as the representative
The star of Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill, who combines an ice-cold, untainted image with aggressiveness, bravery, dynamism and beauty, will epitomize the various souls of Giulietta, a car that knows how to be agile in the toughest situations and comfortable on everyday roads. This is the merit of the new "Compact" architecture. Using sophisticated suspension technical solutions, a dual pinion active steering, top-quality materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies, the Giulietta achieves excellent levels of on-board comfort, dynamic features and safety (both active and passive).

Advertising campaign: “A dream that is reality”
Created by Leo Burnett, the international campaign (on TV, press, posters, radio and web across all the main countries in Europe) plays on the parallelism between Uma Thurman and the Alfa Romeo Giulietta: the actress' personalities are reflected in the features of the car and ultimately merge. References starting from a dream-like, abstract dimension are resolved in an urban context, attributing realism and consistency to Giulietta's dream.

The substance of the new Giulietta is further confirmed by the pay-off which counterbalances the Shakespeare quote: "Without heart we are only machines". In brief, the new Alfa Romeo is a dream that becomes reality. Precisely like the legendary 1950s model - the name of the new car is a clear tribute - that made the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo reachable for the first time for motorists worldwide.

Italian Photographer
Another remarkable talent was chosen to capture Uma Thurman's personality: Fabrizio Ferri. The famous, versatile Italian photographer took the black and white pictures of the press and poster campaign.

TV Commercial
The TV commercial will be aired in Italy starting on 16 May and was entirely filmed in the USA. Directed by Kevin Fitzgerald, Uma Thurman plays five roles, five different women who symbolise the different souls of the car. The suggestive, exciting sound track is by Maestro Flavio Ibba.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta
Destined to relaunch Alfa Romeo in one of the most important segments in Europe, the new Giulietta has a wide range of versions:

1. created by intersecting two outfits (Progression and Distinctive)
2. two customisations packs (Pack Sport and Pack Premium)
3. two different seat fabric upholstery, leather upholstery (four colours are available)
4. eight types of alloy rims (from 16” to 18”) and
5. nine body colours.

Four turbo engines will be available at the time of its commercial launch, all Euro 5 compliant and with standard "Start&Stop" system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions: two petrol versions (1.4TB - 120 HP and 1.4TB Multiair - 170 HP) and two diesel versions (1.6 JTDM - 105 HP and 2.0 JTDM - 170 HP, both second-generation MultiJet engines). The range is completed by the astounding Quadrifoglio Verde 1750 TBi - 235 HP.

For further information on the Giulietta click here

Famous actress Uma Thurman and William Shakespeare's verses - "We are such stuff as dreams are made on" - are featuring in the advertising campaign that will be revealing the multifaceted soul of the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta ahead of the presentation to the public at Italian dealerships scheduled for 22 and 23 May.

Alfa Romeo chooses Uma Thurman to launch the Giulietta

26.01.2010

Courtesy car for Maserati
One hundred Alfa Romeo MiTos, produced exclusively for Maserati’s service network will soon be circulating on roads throughout Europe. For Maserati, the Alfa Romeo MiTo is the perfect “Courtesy Car” for customers who clearly appreciate Italian style and unique products.

MiTo for Maserati Features:
The special MiTos will be marked out by their Maserati Ocean Blue body colour, and will be equipped with the most powerful engine in the entire MiTo range – the very lively, 170 HP, 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol engine.

In addition to their special body colour, the MiTos will feature another two exclusive details: a ‘Limited Edition’ plate on the air conditioning system and special aluminium kick plates bearing the words “Alfa Romeo for Maserati”.

All one hundred cars will be generously equipped with:

• Frau leather seats
• automatic dual zone air conditioning
• a leather steering wheel with radio and telephone controls
• a map-based Radio navigation unit with maps covering the whole of Europe
• the Blue&Me hands-free system with USB port
• and bi-xenon headlights.

The MiTo for Maserati will also stand out due to its exceptional sporting performance. It is fitted as standard with 18 inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a sporty rear bumper and aluminium pedal unit. They will also be fitted as standard with Dynamic Suspension, the advanced electronic control system that varies suspension configuration actively and continuously according to road conditions and driver input, ensuring lightning-quick cornering and amazing sensitivity.

Maserati Philosophy
Thanks to this special initiative with Alfa Romeo, Maserati’s European service network will be able to offer its customers a very special car, completely in line with Maserati philosophy, according to which even the smallest detail is meticulously and attentively chosen.

One hundred Alfa Romeo MiTos, produced exclusively for Maserati’s service network will soon be circulating on roads throughout Europe. For Maserati, the Alfa Romeo MiTo is the perfect “Courtesy Car” for customers who clearly appreciate Italian style and unique products.

Maserati chooses the Alfa Romeo MiTo for its European service network

03.12.2009

The new Alfa Romeo Giuletta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show (March 2010). Sales of the new model will start in spring and be gradually extended to all the major markets. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is expected to give new impetus to the brand in one of Europe's most important segments.

In its Centenary year, the name is both a tribute to an automobile heritage and to Alfa Romeo itself. The Giulietta is a car that, in the 1950s, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, fulfillinh their dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo, and making its high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.

Now, the Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a sporting car capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes, and providing comfort on everyday roads.

A new platform for enhancing road-holding and agility in total comfort and safety
The new Alfa Romeo is a compact car created to appeal to customers who are looking for class-leading dynamic performance, together with those who are looking for a distinctive style and a high level of comfort.

The Giulietta has an all-new platform, designed to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety. Its excellent dynamic performance and great comfort are the result of refined technical solutions implemented in the suspension, a next-generation steering system, a rigid yet light structure made of aluminium and high-strength steel, and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.

Alfa DNA, a system which customises the behaviour of the car according to different driving styles and road conditions, can adapt the new Alfa Romeo to the needs of each inpidual driver to enhance driving pleasure and comfort. The new Alfa Giulietta platform was designed to integrate and enhance all onboard systems. Three set-ups (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) are available and can be selected using the Alfa DNA. This system - standard across the entire range of the new model - modifies the operating parameters of the engine, the steering system, and the Q2 electronic differential, in addition to fine-tuning the stability control system (VDC) behaviours.

Italian style sportiness and comfort
Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo's new direction in style and technology - an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand's glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and passion into the future.

The front end features a brand-new interpretation of the classic Alfa grille, set into the front bumper and suspended between the two air intakes. The entire car develops from here to combine a lively personality and a Daytime Running Lights (DRL) function for maximum active safety.

The profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is rish in personality and confers the appearance of an agile, solid vehicle. This is above all the results of teh coupé shaped side windows, which highlight its dynamic and streamlined shape, and of the concealed rear door handles. Side ribbing adds to the car's slender look, while the taut lines closing in on the rear end accentuate the wedge shape of the body.

The strong style of the rear end consolidates the impression of a muscular car, firmly gripped to the road. Like the headlamps, the rear light clusters implement LED technology, to that advantage of preventive safety, in addition to good looks.

The interior design is taut and light: featuring a horizontally developed dashboard with aluminium accents, and rocker controls which explicity recall the 8C Competizione. Painstaking attention to detail and the high quality of the materials used are the most advanced expression of Italian style.

Finally, the dimensions of the new car give a compact, dynamic shape combined with excellent interior space and capacious boot (350 litres): the car is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metre high and 1.80 metres wide with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.

Innovative engines for exciting, environmentally-friendly driving
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta achieves top level performance and offers next-generation technology in terms of technical solutions, performance and environmental friendliness. Four Turbo engines will be available at launch, all Euro 5 compliant and fitted with a standard Start&Stop system for reducing consumption and emissions: two petrol engines (1.4TB - 120 HP and 1.4TB MultiAir - 170 HP) and two diesel engines (1.6 JTDM - 105 HP and 2.0 JTDM - 170 HP, both belonging to the second generation of JTDM engines). Finally, the range is completed with the lively 1750 TBi version producing 235 HP with an exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde configuration.

Safety and dynamic behaviour at the top of the segment
Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to obtain the maximum Euro NCAP crash safety rating in order to offer total protection to driver and passengers. Furthermore, suspension, steering and braking systems are designed to be perfectly balanced even during extreme manoeuvres.

Finally, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is fitted with the most sophisticated electronic systems for dynamic control as standard: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), DST (Dynamic Steering Torque), Q2 electronic differential and Alfa DNA selector. All the systems guarantee driving safey, dynamism and performance in the best Alfa Romeo tradition.

The new Alfa Romeo Giuletta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show (March 2010). Sales of the new model will start in spring and be gradually extended to all the major markets.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta: World Preview

23.02.2009

Alfa Romeo are to premiere a high performance concept of the new Alfa MiTo, the Alfa MiTo GTA, at this year's Geneva International Motor Show in early March.

In-keeping with the famous GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerita) signature, (Alleggerita meaning reduced weight in Italian), the MiTo GTA concept prioritises weight reduction to achieve an optimum power-to-weight ratio.

Considerable work has gone into lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity, so certain components such as the tailgate spoiler, roof and mirror fairings are manufactured from carbon-fibre, while aluminium is used extensively in the braking system, suspension, and parts of the chassis.

Under the bonnet of the MiTo GTA concept is an exciting new low-weight engine that addresses all the current pre-requisites of downsizing, environmental awareness and efficiency, without ever compromising on exhilarating high power and performance.

Designed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies using the vast experience gained in the production of the Twin Spark and Alfa V6 road and race engines, the compact new concept engine emplys advanced technical solutions including direct injection, dual variable valve timing, state-of-the-art turbocharging and advanced electronic management systems to product a remarkable 240bhp from just 1742cc.

Under-floor aerodynamics have been a particular concern, and the entire car has been lowered by some 20mm. The front suspension employs new geometry with aluminium leading arms, while the rear suspension has all-new bushings. The comprehensively revised chassis boasts an 'active' suspension system, (advanced damper control), which counteracts the transfer of load under acceleration, stiffening the rear end and maximising traction. The suspension also interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain the most efficient control of vehicle dynamics, while a 'Sky-Hook' function ensures an excellent level of passenger comfort in all conditions and at all speeds.

In March 2009 Alfa will reveal the hotly-anticipated MiTo GTA concept car at the International Motor Show in Geneva

Alfa MiTo GTA concept to star at 2009 Geneva Motor Show

16.06.2008

As of today, sailing enthusiasts will be able to follow even more closely the exploits of maxi yacht Alfa Romeo 2 and the qualifying regattas for the 2007 Americas Cup, featuring Luna Rossa. For a few days now, a new site http://www.yacht.alfaromeo.com has been on-line, dedicated to Alfa Romeo’s involvement in the world of sailing: from sponsorship of the maxi yacht built and skippered by Neville Crichton to the company’s role as official supplier to the Luna Rossa team, and its partnership with the Cortina D’Ampezzo Yacht Club. The bilingual site offers up-to-date news about the teams, as well as technical information about the boats and crews, and there is also a gallery of photos to download. A site that is sure to be a hit with sailing fans all over the world.

News, technical information and some of the very best regatta photos are the ingredients of the new site dedicated to Alfa Romeo’s involvement in the world of sailing.

Alfa Romeo sets sail online

16.06.2008

After a good start to the season at the Zegna Trophy in Portofino, Alfa Romeo 2 is now back in the thick of things at the Giraglia Rolex Cup, the historic regatta nicknamed the ‘Queen of the Mediterranean’ for its wonderful charm. The competition has now reached its 54th edition, with St. Tropez the setting for the first three inshore races, followed by the 245-mile ocean going race, in which the boats will make for the Ile du Levant, then turn for Giraglia, before crossing the finishing line off Portofino or Genoa, depending on weather conditions.
As in previous years, this edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup has attracted a huge, mixed fleet: competing vessels include the imposing, latest-generation Maxi Yachts, ready to go all out for victory; the most competitive IMS yachts in the Mediterranean, crewed by great sailing professionals; but there are also a host of simple sailing enthusiasts who want to add another edition of the Cup to their personal list of achievements.
And the first results weren’t slow in coming: on day 1 (June 11) Crichton’s maxi yacht crossed the finish line first with a lead of almost half an hour over the other challengers.
At the finish line, Neville Crichton commented: «Competing in this race organised by the Yacht Club Italiano, the Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez and Yacht Club de France is always very enjoyable both for the atmosphere and the very competitive environment. And crossing the line first with such a good lead makes it even better». The Giraglia culminates with arrival in Genoa on Saturday 17 June, after a course of 243 miles.

Neville Crichton’s maxi yacht continues its exploits in the Mediterranean, as it competes in the Giraglia Cup races.

The maxi yacht Alfa Romeo stars in the Giraglia Cup

20.05.2008

After its victory in 2007, the Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Super Sport from 1928 – driven by Luciano and Antonio Viaro - once again this year claimed victory in the long-distance race for vintage cars, crossing the finish line ahead of the Alfa 6C 1750 Gran Sport of the Argentinians Fernando Sanchez Zinni and Juan Bartolomè.

With 46 precious models taking part, Alfa Romeo was the best-represented brand in the race, out of a total of 375 competing cars. And let’s not forget that this year the brand, together with the other brands belonging to Fiat Group Automobiles, was also a Joint Presenting Sponsor of the prestigious event.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Super Sport enjoys a special rapport with the 1000 Miglia: in 1928 and 1929, it claimed victory in the speed race with Giuseppe Campari, and has now repeated this success in 2007 and 2008 in the re-running of the historic race with Luciano Viaro. The same car and the same route, even if in the 1920s the roads were much worse, with most of the race run on dirt roads. The modern re-running has retained many of the original difficulties, starting with the more than 1600 kilometres covered between Thursday 15 and Saturday 17 May, from Brescia to Brescia, by way of Rome.

Meanwhile, way back in 1930, none other than Tazio Nuvolari won the 1000 Miglia in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport identical to the one driven by Sanchez Zinni and Juan Bartolomè, in the process launching the legend of the ‘Flying Mantuan’ and his ‘Red Alfa’. A legend supported by results, with Alfa Romeo cars winning 11 of the 30 editions run between 1927 and 1957.

Thus started a success story that has endured to the present day through the Alfa Romeo Historic Centre in Arese, which maintains and races the cars in major vintage car rallies.

This year once again, Alfa Romeo was the undisputed star of the re-running of the historic race. The 6C 1500 Super Sport from 1928 claimed the top step on the podium, driven by Luciano and Antonio Viaro

Alfa Romeo wins the Mille Miglia

14.03.2008

A modern, innovative car, with a name with a highly evocative significance (‘Mito’ is Italian for ‘Myth’ or ‘Legend’), chosen as a sign of the profound links between Alfa’s past and future: between Milan, the city of design where the company was founded and where its typical style was created, and Turin, the city where the car will be manufactured. Alfa Romeo presents the world première of the new MiTo, the first model after the 8C Competizione, Alfa Romeo’s stylistic and technological icon.

Measuring 4.06 m long, 1.44 m tall and 1.72 m wide, the new compact car has more than a little in common with the stunning supercar: frame-free side windows, the triangular form of the front bumper, and the shape of the LED headlights and rear lights. Distinctive features that now sit alongside new elements, such as the frames around the lights, giving an exquisite eye-liner effect. It has a strong personality on the inside, too, where ‘made in Italy’ style finds its fullest expression, comfortable yet sporty, with top-quality materials and almost manic attention to detail.

But an Alfa is not just about style and design: an Alfa is above all about performance and technology. The MiTo can satisfy even the most demanding motorist with a level of ride comfort that is second to none, thanks in no small part to the “Alfa DNA” device, which acts on the engine, brakes, steering, suspension and gearbox, allowing the driver to select one of three different driving modes: sporty (Dynamic), urban (Normal), and ensuring the maximum comfort in difficult grip conditions (All weather). The car will initially be available with a choice of four engines, all turbo units (petrol and diesel), with power ratings from 90 to 155 horsepower. Other engines will be added at a later date, offering even more power. The sporty suspension set-up, typical of a true Alfa Romeo, features a contractive suspension system that greatly reduces body roll and ensures the maximum active, passive and preventive safety, with the VDC stability system as standard and a structure designed to obtain the highest possible Euroncap safety rating.
The Alfa MiTo will be presented to the International press in June, and will gradually become available in all the main markets from July.

Making its world première, Alfa Romeo proudly presents the new MiTo, the ‘most compact sports car ever’, dedicated to a new generation of Alfa enthusiasts.

MiTo

27.02.2008

Black livery, lower suspension, oversized tires, 19” alloy wheels, side skirts, red brake callipers, and under the hood a powerful 2.4 JTDM 20v 210 bhp, with a 6-speed mechanical gearbox. The Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI has guts to spare, just like world champion Casey Stoner, to whom it has been presented.

Representing Alfa Romeo again in the 2008 season, the Australian rider for the Ducati MotoGP Team – with Alfa Romeo as the Official Sponsor for the third consecutive season – is sure to appreciate the car’s qualities as he waits for the first round of the 2008 MotoGP season, the ‘Qatar Grand Prix’, scheduled for 9 March.
Among other things, last year it was an Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI that acted as Safety Car in the 13 races of the ‘SBK Superbike World Championship®‘, and it also took to the track for the warm-ups and before every race in the Superstock 600 European Championship, the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup and the Supersport World Championship. A thrilling experience for the brand, set to be repeated in 2008 as Alfa is Top Sponsor to the Superbike World Championship and the Official Sponsor of Ducati Corse.

With this 159 Sportwagon TI, young Casey adds a second Alfa Romeo to his own personal ‘fleet’: to celebrate his victory in the 2007 MotoGP, Alfa presented him with a very special Alfa Spider 3.2 260 bhp with a Q-Tronic gearbox and advanced ‘Alfa Q4’ four-wheel drive. The spider was customised with special finishing touches, with references to the graphic on Stoner’s helmet, and to the world of racing, with the laurels commemorating the 2007 victory.

Alfa Romeo has presented the young Australian rider with one of its most gritty models. The perfect car for a speed-merchant like him.

Casey Stoner receives an Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI

25.02.2008

The spotlights are all on the brand new Alfa 8C Spider, which makes its world première in Geneva. This dream car, produced in a limited edition of only 500, is a classic two-seater, with a steel chassis and a light carbon fibre body.
Under the hood, the car’s beating heart is a scintillating 4691 cc 8-cylinder 90° V engine, capable of delivering 450 horsepower and a peak torque of 480 Nm, and paired with a 6-speed robotic gearbox with computerised gear selection and a self-blocking differential. The car features the classic Transaxle setup from the Formula 1 cars of the 1950s, with the engine at the front and the gearbox at the rear, in a single block with the differential and the hydraulic actuator. This sophisticated engineering gem is dressed in classic Italian livery, borrowing the forms and volumes of the 8C Competizione. The Alfa engineers have paid such meticulous attention to the car’s dynamics that the Alfa 8C Spider actually has a negative lift coefficient: just like racing cars, which take advantage of this characteristic to increase stability at high speeds.
At the Motor Show, the captivating Spider is accompanied by the Alfa 8C Competizione coupé, the highest expression of Alfa Romeo innovation in terms of engineering and motoring excellence.
The spotlights are also on another ‘limited edition’ model, the new Alfa 147 Ducati Corse fitted with the powerful 1.9 JTDM 170 bhp and the “Q2” system. Then come the MY 08 versions of the Alfa 159 – saloon and Sportwagon – with several new features in terms of style, versions and equipment. Also on display is the 2008 range of the Brera and Spider, with new looks and contents. All three models feature the new Electronic Q2 system, which gets the very best from both front-wheel and 4-wheel drive setups, by considerably improving road-holding, driving force, and stability, while at the same time reducing understeering when accelerating and steering wheel shimmies.
Completing the collection is the Alfa GT, with the Black Line III version, fitted for the first time with the powerful 1.9 JTDM 170 bhp, which will be available from June.

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The 8C spider makes its world première in Geneva, flanked by the entire new Alfa range, including the Alfa 159, Spider and Brera, the Alfa 147 Ducati Corse and the Alfa GT Black Line III. Meanwhile, the new Electronic Q2 system also makes it debut.

The Alfa 8C Spider takes centre stage in Geneva

25.02.2008

After a winter break spent conducting trials behind closed doors, it was time to get back to the thrills and spills of the real thing, with the first round of the Superbike World Championship. This year promises to be special, as it already looks set to be a ‘derby’ between the two Ducati riders, Troy Bayliss and Max Biaggi, pitting the official Ducati team against Ducati customers.
The first round of the championship was held in Losail, in Qatar, with Bayliss winning race one on his 1098, completing 18 laps in 36 mins, 11.468 secs, after a tyre problem forced him to slow up towards the end.
In race two, Max Biaggi had victory in his grasp, but then he suffered engine problems, and at the end could only finish in third place, with Suzuki’s Fonsi Nieto easily winning the final sprint. Troy Bayliss finished in fourth, ahead of his team mate Lorenzo Lanzi.
«It was an excellent start to the season – said Bayliss -. I’m extremely happy with the result. I didn’t make a great start in race one, and I had to work my way up through the pack.
Over the last eight laps, Max and I had a real battle, but in the end I managed to get ahead of him. Despite a few minor errors I felt comfortable and managed to hang on for victory».
Next week the show moves on to the Australian GP.

Troy Bayliss and Ducati made a fine start to the Superbike World Championship season in Losail, Quatar.

Saturday 23 February. Qatar

13.02.2008

The brand-new Melges yacht of brothers Vanni and Edoardo Pavesio celebrated its launch with a podium finish that augurs well for the future. In the international classic regatta opening the 2008 monotype season, held from 8 to 10 February in the waters off the Principality of Monaco, the Alfa Spider team’s new ITA 742 yacht claimed third place. First place in the Melges 24 class went to the French team Flor Direct, followed by Poizon Rouge.
Around eighty monotype craft – including the 12 Melges 24 class yachts – lined up at the start in almost spring-like weather, with sunshine and a light breeze.
Edoardo Pavesio said: «These were very difficult regattas. Our tactician had to work hard to find the wind and the best pressure zone. The new yacht has just been launched, and so it still needs to be fine tuned. A third place finish is an excellent starting point for the 2008 season, which promises to be very tough: the quality of the competition will continue to improve as we approach the World Championships in Porto Cervo at the start of June».
The team on board the Alfa Spider consists of Gabriele Benussi at the helm, Hugo Rocha (a bronze medalist in Atlanta in the 470 class) on tactics, Edoardo Pavesio working the sheets, Vanni Pavesio the halyards, and Claudia Tosi at the prow.
The next race date is next week in Alassio, for the last winter challenge, before tackling the first leg of the Volvo Cup at the end of February.

The Melges 24 Alfa Spider has made a brilliant start to the season, claiming third place in the Primo Cup in Montecarlo.

A top-three finish for the Alfa Spider Melges 24

10.02.2008

This year’s championship includes a total of fifteen races, including a much anticipated return to the United States - to Salt Lake City - and takes in prestigious circuits such as the Nurburgring in Germany and the new Portimao circuit in Portugal at the end of the season. Twenty-eight riders, five constructors, and sixteen teams. The calendar for the 2008 Superbike World Championship is richer than ever.
Alfa Romeo Automobiles is once again a Main Sponsor, with the Alfa 159 TI acting as safety car on the track and as the official car of the Ducati Racing team. A new feature this year will be the ‘Alfa Romeo SBK Lounge’, where guests can relax while they enjoy all the thrills and spills of the Championship. Another new feature is the launch of the ‘Alfa 159 Superpole’ Trophy, with a fantastic Alfa 159 3.2 TI up for grabs for the rider who gains the greatest number of Superpoles during the course of the season.
«The world of two wheels goes very well with our brand», said Sergio Cravero, the Alfa Romeo Global Marketing Manager, during the party organized at the Superstudio in Milan to launch this season’s host of new features. «Things we have in common include the values of sportiness and the ability to thrill. The SBK championship is a powerful communication tool: last year, around 70 million spectators followed each race on television, and we played host to around five thousand guests, including VIPs, journalists, customers and our commercial network. In addition, the SBK championship enabled us to bring the qualities of the Alfa 159 to the attention of the public».

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The calendar for the 2008 SBK World Championship

February 23, Qatar (Doha-Losail); March 2, Australia (Phillip Island); April 6, Spain (Valencia); April 27, Holland (Assen); May 11, Italy (Monza); June 1, USA (Salt Lake City); June 15, Germany (Nurburgring); June 29, San Marino (Misano); July 20, Czech Republic (Brno); August 3, Great Britain (Brands Hatch); September 7, Great Britain (Donington Park); September 21, Italy (Vallelunga); October 5, France (Magny Cours); October 12, Indonesia (Sentul – to be confirmed); November 2, Portugal (Portimao).

We are geared up for another exciting season in the Superbike World Championship: this year is the twenty-first edition. Once again this year, Alfa Romeo is the main sponsor, with the Alfa 159 TI acting as safety car on the track and as the official car of the Ducati Racing Team.

The Superbike Championship returns

22.01.2008

Give the young a chance! From 24 to 28 January, Bologna plays host to the 32nd edition of ‘Art Fiera Art First’, the Italian Modern and Contemporary art fair focusing specifically at young galleries, representing a truly unique opportunity to discover emerging trends and new talents.
For the second consecutive year, Alfa Romeo is providing the Official Car for this important and prestigious event. Visitors to the Bologna fair can admire the Alfa 8C Competizione in the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’, a special area created using innovative materials and visual solutions, and situated in pavilion 16, near the fair’s VIP lounge. With the WalkTrueColor’s video-installation – a thrilling 90 second adventure inspired by the 8C Competizione – spectators can enjoy the dynamic experience of "travelling" through the geometric decomposition of forms in movement, with dazzling changes of color, light and contrast that give a close-up experience of the values and guiding principles of the Italian Futurist Movement, an artistic movement with which Alfa Romeo shares both a historic link – Futurism began in 1909, just a year before Alfa was founded – and a set of common values: speed, dynamism, and a search for innovation. It is not by chance that the brand will be the sponsor of the exhibition ‘Giacomo Balla, Futurist Modernity’, being held at the Palazzo Reale in Milan from 14 February to 18 May 2008.
And that’s not all. Alfa Romeo has also contributed to the publication of ‘The Journal of Contemporary Art’, the annual report on modern art, which will be first distributed at the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’.

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For the second consecutive year, Alfa Romeo provides the Official Car at ‘Arte Fiera Art First’, being held in Bologna from 24 to 28 January. On show in the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’ is the Alfa 8C Competizione, a “masterpiece in movement”

Alfa Romeo in Bologna for Arte Fiera 2008

05.11.2007

Alfa Romeo – the Official Sponsor of the Ducati team in 2006 and 2007 – invited Stoner to put the car through its paces on the track, and naturally he leapt at the chance. It took only took a couple of laps for him to get the hang of the latest ‘Gran Turismo’ offering from the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, an expression of the very best in Italian design, and at the end of the session, the young Australian rider could only say: «Absolutely amazing! That is the best car I have ever driven».
Not surprising really, when you consider that the Alfa 8C Competizione was designed specifically to offer incredible performance and a smooth ride in all situations. Fitted with a 4691 cc, 8-cylinder 90° V engine, it can deliver a maximum power output of 450 bhp at 7000 rpm, with a peak torque of 470 Nm at 4750 rpm (the max. engine speed is 7500 rpm).
A perfect blend of elegance and sportiness, the 8C Competizione is produced in a limited edition of only 500 models. All in all, a unique car, which draws its inspiration from Alfa’s legendary past, while projecting towards the future those values of technology and emotion that have always been its distinctive traits.

Balocco echoes to the roar of engines: Casey Stoner takes to the track. This time, though, the twenty-two year old MotoGp World Champion 2007 is not sitting in the saddle of his powerful Ducati Demosedici GP7 number 27, but rather is sitting at the wheel of the Alfa 8C Competizione.

Casey and 8C: two champions at Balocco

29.10.2007

Sponsored by Alfa Romeo Spain, the IXth edition of the most prestigious International speed rally for vintage cars in Southern Europe set out from Vilamoura (Portugal) on October 22, and arrived in Jerez de La Frontera (Spain) on October 26. Around a hundred vehicles competed in the race, which included three stages on the track, in addition to two thousand kilometers across the Iberian peninsula, through Portugal and Spain.
Alfa Romeo was there with no fewer than four cars: a Giulietta TI from 1957 driven by an all-female American team of Nancy Thomas and Nancy Northrop; a 1750 GTAM from 1970 driven by Marta Vinicio and Maria Cristina Di Bona; another 1750 GTAM, this time driven by Marco and Laura Rossi; but they were all outdone by an Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS from 1954, driven by the Milanese team of Marco Cajani and Savina Gonfaloni, which was the first to cross the finish line.
A great result not only for the winners, but for Alfa as a whole, who after making it two wins in a row last year, this year made it three consecutive victories. As they say, you can’t have two without three.

You can’t have two without three... After its victories in 2005 and 2006, this year once again a car from the ‘Portello’ stable is the first to cross the line in the ‘Tour of Spain and Portugal’: a 1900 CSS from 1954.

A triple for the ‘Portello’ in the Tour of Spain and Portugal

25.10.2007

A mixture of simple, clean forms, combined with a playful use of solid and empty space, with gloss and matt finishes: this is the Alfa Romeo stand at the Tokyo International Motor Show, an exclusive setting designed along the lines of a ‘villa’.
The spotlights are turned in particular towards the 8C Competizione, the exclusive, limited edition ‘Gran Turismo’ model, standing proudly atop a stainless steel platform with a black lacquered finish. Also in the spotlight is the new Alfa 147 C’N’C 21, a special series model created from the collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the stylist Ennio Capasa, given a special white-trimmed setting.
The Japanese public is refined and very demanding, and in recent years has found in Alfa Romeo a brand that can bring together the very best in terms of style, design and new technologies.
It is no coincidence that in a market that has seen an overall dip in imports in the last year (-10% compared to January/September 2006), Alfa Romeo has continued to grow (+5%), thanks to cars such as the Alfa 159, Brera and Spider, which have also contributed to the excellent performance of Fiat Group Automobiles Japan. Made in Italy has landed in the land of the rising sun…

From October 24 to November 11, the entire Alfa Romeo range will be on show at the Tokyo International Motor Show. A major event, in a market where Italian style is increasingly appreciated.

Alfa Romeo lands in Tokyo

07.09.2007

Originally developed for the 8C Competizione, and now extended to the entire range, the programme breaks down into three main reas: ‘Vintage’, ‘Collezione’ and ‘TI’. The first area – Vintage – gives a modern, elegant interpretation of Alfa Romeo tradition with new body colors and beautifully crafted upholstery.
The ‘Collezione’ catalogue invites customers to explore the world of fashion and elegance, with luxury materials, metal inserts and multi-layer lacquered paint. And lastly, the ‘TI’ line is a tribute to Alfa Romeo’s sporting tradition, offering lowered suspension settings, a boosted braking system, alloy wheels and high-performance tires.
The Frankfurt stand also features the new Alfa 147 C’N’C COSTUME NATIONAL (a special series of only 1000 models, born out of the collaboration between Alfa and the stylist Ennio Capata), and the Alfa GT 1.9 JTDM with the Q2 system, two Alfa 159s, a Brera and a Spider, all customized using the Alfa Unica programme.
Meanwhile, in the background, a series of screens show images of sailing and motorcycling, sports in which Alfa Romeo is actively involved both as competitor and sponsor, as in the case of the SBK Superbike World Championship® and Ducati Racing Team.

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Alfa Romeo returns to the Frankfurt Motor Show with an exciting stand that highlights the elegant styling of its cars. The focal point of the stand is the Alfa Unica Customisation Programme, which allows customers to make their cars even more exclusive.

Alfa Romeo at the Frankfurt Motor Show

24.07.2007

Thanks to a collaboration with the Jaggy sportswear brand and partnership with Monsieur and B-Cool, everyone will be able to admire the Alfa Romeo convertible in all its splendour. A whole series of events and parties have been arranged to provide the perfect setting for the model that has been elected Cabrio of the Year 2006 and the Most Beautiful Car on the Web.
Every day, visitors can approach any of the hostesses on hand at the display area to arrange a test drive in the Alfa Spider. They can also book one of the racetrack test drives which will be held in Vizzola (Novara) on September 15-16 and in Anagni (Rome) on September 29-30 and October 6.
But that’s not all. Some of the most exclusive hotels on the Costa Smeralda have chosen the Alfa Spider as their official courtesy car, put at the disposal of guests, while the famous ‘Coast’ lounge bar will be decorated for the occasion in unmistakable Alfa Romeo style.
Alfa Romeo has very strong links with the sea and with the Costa Smeralda. A “love story” that finds its fullest expression in the brand’s relationship with the world of sailing, as evidenced by the Alfa Romeo Yacht Racing Team, the Melges 24 Alfa Spider and the maxi yacht Alfa Romeo.

Alfa Romeo Automobiles once again takes pride of place on the Costa Smeralda. Up until August 26, the famous square of Porto Cervo will be graced by an Alfa Spider, in an exclusive display that recreates the atmosphere of a yachting club.

Alfa Spider takes pride of place on the Costa Smeralda

26.02.2007

“It is a pleasure for me to be able to work with a major Italian company like Alfa Romeo, a company that epitomises Made in Italy excellence” - the words of stylist Giorgio Armani presenting his partnership with Alfa Romeo, sponsor of the “Giorgio Armani Exhibition” at the ‘Triennale’ exhibition centre in Milan.
After more than six years of astounding public success internationally, the exhibition has finally returned to the stylist’s home city, where it will be open to the public from 20 February to 1 April.
The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the highlights of thirty years’ work by Giorgio Armani, featuring six-hundred dresses, several original sketches and a range of interesting audio and video recordings. The show pays homage to the career of one of the brightest lights, not just in the world of fashion, but also in the world of contemporary culture and aesthetics.
Like Giorgio Armani, Alfa Romeo also epitomises ‘Made in Italy’ excellence in terms of undisputed elegance, style, innovation and tradition – qualities obvious in the Brera, the winner of numerous international design awards, and on display near the main entrance to the ‘Triennale’. As well as the Brera, another ten cars will be at the disposal of the organisers for transporting the host of international guests expected in Milan.
For Antonio Baravalle, CEO of Alfa Romeo Automobiles, “sponsorship of the ‘Giorgio Armani Exhibition’ is part of a strategy aimed at forging a permanent link between Alfa Romeo and the world of culture, in the sense of artistic expression highlighting creativity and innovation”.

Alfa Romeo sponsor of the “Giorgio Armani Exhibition” at the ‘Triennale’ exhibition centre in Milan.

Alfa-and-Armani-a-timeless-elegance

13.02.2007

Alfa Romeo is by tradition associated with the world of competition, especially those competitions involving cars directly derived from production models. More recently, however, it has become involved with the world of two-wheel racing, starting five years ago with Ducati, which once again this year will have Alfa at its side in both the Moto GP, and in the Superbike championship.
Now, just a few days ago, came the announcement of a new alliance between Alfa and the SBK Superbike World Championship. Alfa Romeo will be present on the track for all 13 of the races as a golden sponsor, official and safety car.

Alfa Romeo takes to the race track with an exciting new sponsorship deal: the Superbike championship. And to mark the occasion it has come up with a new slogan: ‘winners race with the heart’.

Winners race with the heart

22.12.2006

After previewing at the Paris Motor Show on the Alfa 147, the new ‘Q2’ self-locking differential had its press launch on Monday 13 November, and it had a surprise up its sleeve: the device will not only be available on the 147, but also on the Alfa GT. The innovative system improves active safety, control and driving pleasure. It can currently be found only the JTDM 150 bhp version, but will soon be extended to other models in the range.
In recent years, diesel engines have seen a considerable increase in the amount of torque transmitted to the wheels, and Alfa Romeo has developed the ‘Q2’ system to ensure maximum control and traction in all driving conditions.

Alfa Romeo has put the finishing touches to the new ‘Q2’ self-locking front differential that will feature on its Alfa 147 and Alfa GT models. More driving pleasure and control, as well as greater safety and stability on bends.

Alfa 147 ‘Q2’ and GT ‘Q2’: the ultimate traction control

27.10.2006

Alfa Romeo, the serial winner on the ocean, has claimed yet another victory in the Rolex Middle Sea Race. The maxi yacht was sailed to success by its skipper-builder Neville Crichton, who, after setting sail at 11.50 on Saturday 21 October, covered the 607 miles of the regatta in just over three days. With this success, Alfa Romeo has claimed a hat-trick of victories, repeating its wins in 2003 and 2004. An outstanding feat, equalled only once in the past, by Enrico Recchi with Benbow in the 1970s.
For the Alfa Romeo-sponsored yacht, this hard-fought victory was made even more difficult by the changeable wind conditions: moderate at the start in Malta, increasing in strength as far as Messina, before dropping off sharply after passing Stromboli, a calm that persisted for the remaining 400 miles of the race along the route Malta – Messina – Stromboli – Egadi – Pantelleria – Lampedusa, and arrival once again in Malta.
I’m delighted with this fantastic third victory, which puts Alfa Romeo on a par with very competitive yachts such as Morning Glory and Maximus’, said Neville Crichton. ‘Obviously the challenge for the record is still on, and with our yacht and crew, with a better wind we could even have managed that for our supporters.’
The skipper of the maxi yacht still has good reason to be happy, however: he has claimed no fewer than 102 Line Honours (first place) with the two yachts Alfa Romeo 1 and 2, successes achieved in some of the most important and prestigious ocean-going races in the world, such as the Rolex Sydney to Hobart, the Rolex Fastnet Race, the Giraglia Rolex Cup and the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Not to mention the recent victory in the Barcolana 2006 race.
The ‘serial winner’ of the oceans returns to competition in 2007, when it will be taking part in a rich programme of regattas around the Mediterranean, including the legendary Fastnet Rolex Cup, which it already won in 2003.

The maxi yacht Alfa Romeo wins the Rolex Middle Sea Race for the third time, and confirms its status as the fastest yacht in the world.

The serial winner

20.09.2006

She is the Queen of the Paris Motor Show: the new Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione - a two-seater super sports car that embodies the quintessence of Italian racing cars, and will be produced as a limited edition. Derived from the prototype presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003, it combines the very latest technologies with a body that offers a modern interpretation of the style of some of the most famous racing cars from the past, including, notably, the 33 Coupé Stradale and the Giulia TZ (Zagato tubular body) from the 1960s. Even the name itself - 8C Competizione – harks back to the Alfa Romeo greats of the Thirties, and will get the pulse of all true fans racing.
Conceived at the Alfa Romeo Style Centre in Arese and developed in collaboration with Maserati, the new saloon is an uncompromising sports car. Studied down to the smallest detail, to get the very best in terms of performance and driving pleasure, its light, strong structure features a steel chassis supporting a carbon fibre body. The engine is an amazing new 4.7-litre, 8-cylinder 90°V unit, capable of delivering 450 horsepower. It comes with rear-wheel drive, and a 6-speed robotic gearbox placed in the rear train, in a single unit with the differential, for better weight distribution. It has the same layout as the legendary Alfetta single-seater, twice winner of the Formula One world title, in 1950 and 1951. The suspension system features deformable wishbones, like those found on racing cars. Even the tyres have been chosen to give the very best in terms of performance: ultra-low, they are mounted on 20” wheels and are wider at the rear (283/35 against 245/35). Helping to tame the 450 horsepower of the 8C Competizione is the car’s aerodynamics, giving a negative lift effect for increased grip and stability, and the use of the very latest version of the VDC electronic system. This system guarantees dynamic control of the car even in emergency situations, without penalising driving pleasure. The quest for on-the-road behaviour that can satisfy even the most demanding drivers is also behind the new Alfa Romeo 147 Q2, making its world premiers in Paris. Fitted with the 1.9 JTDM 150 bhp turbodiesel and featuring exclusive sporting trim, this version uses a new self-blocking differential – called the Q2 – which increases the car’s ability to ‘discharge’ the engine torque, improving the ca’s dynamic control and driving pleasure. The 147 Q2 is easily recognisable for its low trim, rear spoiler and for the satin-finish steel elements (radiator grille, ‘whiskers’, and mirrors). On the inside, a host of details emphasise this version’s sporty personality, summed up by one detail in particular: the pierced aluminium pedals. Next to the Q2, the Alfa Romeo stand also features two special versions of the 147: the Black Line II and the Collezione II. Fitted respectively with the twin-shaft 1.6 Twin Spark 120 bhp petrol engine and the 1.9 JTDM 150 bhp turbodiesel unit, they are exclusive versions with a lowered trim, 17” alloy wheels, a particularly lavish range of equipment and a truly exclusive look. In particular, the Black Line II combines the Alfa Red body with the roof and certain other elements in gloss black, while the Collezione II is black with black and cream leather interiors.
Alongside these attractions, Alfa Romeo also has its most recent models on display in Paris: the 159 saloon and Sportwagon, the Spider, the 2+2 Brera and the Black Line version of the GT coupé. We think it safe to say that this year’s Alfa stand will be one of the most popular with the Paris public.

Alfa Romeo will be at the Paris Motor Show with a host of major new attractions, including the eagerly awaited 8C Competizione, the super sports car that harks back to the great models of the past, while offering cutting-edge technology and outstanding performance.

The 8C Competizione makes its debut in Paris

19.07.2006

The fleet of the prestigious motorcycle team is joined by eight Alfa 159 saloons and Sportwagon versions – together to represent the best of Made in Italy

‘Alfa Romeo’ and ‘Ducati Corse’, two of the biggest names representing ‘Made in Italy’, have joined forces on the circuits of the Grand Prix World Championship and the Superbike World Championship. A collaboration agreement between the two brands that, among other things, involves the inclusion in the Borgo Panigale fleet of eight Alfa 159s and Alfa 159 Sportwagons – cars synonymous with comfort, safety and, above all, sportiness. The first model was handed over at Mugello by Sergio Cravero, the Alfa Romeo Brand Marketing Manager, to Federico Minoli, President and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding. Handover of the rest of the fleet took place at subsequent competitive meetings.
Alfa and Ducati have thus joined forces to promote Italian style and technology throughout the world. A wide-ranging initiative that also involves common advertising and marketing activities, using techniques aimed at further emphasising the natural association of these two prestigious brands.

The fleet of the prestigious motorcycle team is joined by eight Alfa 159 saloons and Sportwagon versions – together to represent the best of Made in Italy.

Alfa and Ducati, together in sport

22.05.2006

There are now just a few days to go before the public launch of the Alfa Spider, the model that – following its world preview at the Geneva Motor Show – was named ‘Cabrio of the Year 2006’ by the ‘Cabriolet Committee’, a jury of 23 specialist journalists from 12 countries. The venue for the launch is Sicily, particularly the suggestive seaside village of Bonagia, at the foot of Monte Erice, in the province of Trapani. It is there, on the slopes of the mountain, that the more than five-hundred journalists will be able to experience first-hand the driving thrill that only the new Spider can offer. This car is a true Alfa Romeo, thanks to the excellent dynamic performance provided by the high wishbone front suspension and the Multilink setup at the rear. The new Alfa complements this wonderful driving comfort with a sporty trim and the use of advanced ‘Alfa Q4’ four-wheel drive, available on the 3.2 260 bhp version. In terms of safety, the new model adopts the most advanced electronic devices for control of the car’s dynamic behaviour, from braking to traction.
Meanwhile, on the inside, the Alfa Spider offers welcoming, highly-sophisticated surroundings, thanks to the use of exclusive materials and equipment such as the dual-zone automatic climate control system, radio controls on the steering wheel, VDC and cruise control. Available in two versions (Spider and Exclusive), the range comes with two JTS petrol engines (the 2.2 185 bhp and 3.2 260 bhp), and a choice of two gearboxes: a 6-speed mechanical unit available with both engines, and an automatic gearbox for the 3.2 260 bhp engine, which will be available after the launch. The turn-key prices start at € 35,800 for the ‘Spider 2.2 JTS’ version and € 37,800 for the Exclusive version. Meanwhile, the Alfa Spider Exclusive fitted with the powerful 3.2 JTS V6 Q4 engine (260 bhp) and four-wheel drive will cost from € 45,800.

On June 13, the latest creation from Alfa Romeo makes its debut in Sicily. Guests will include over 500 journalists.

Alfa Spider is presented to the international press

22.05.2006

Yet another success. At the XXIV edition of the ‘Mille Miglia Storica’, the team of Luciano Viaro in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 SS from 1928 didn’t quite manage to repeat last year’s success, when he won the race outright. This year, having led at the start of the competition, in the end he was beaten to first place on the podium by the team of Canè-Galliani in a Bmw, but still claimed a well-deserved second place.
Yet again at this edition, the most famous travelling museum in the world generated a huge amount of interest and curiosity: 375 cars, that from 1927 to 1957 competed in the ‘real’ editions of the race, with participants from thirty nations representing five continents. The 2006 edition enjoyed wonderful weather and thrilling head-to-head duels, such as the one between Viaro’s Alfa Romeo and Ezio Perletti’s Fiat 514 Coppa Alpi from 1930. After the scrutineering and marking day, which this year was held exceptionally in ‘piazza della Loggia’ in Brescia, the first of the three stages of the race began from Viale Venezia. Awaiting the 375 teams was a course of 1600 kilometres through seven Italian regions. After a parade through the historic streets of the centre of Brescia, the cars headed towards Verona, and ended the first stage in Ferrara. On day two, the caravan of cars made for the Adriatic coast, on the way making the now regular stop in San Marino and completing a series of special stages on the hills of Monte Titano. This was followed by a spectacular stage of over thirty kilometres through the historic centre of Rome and Vatican City, before the final return to Brescia by way of Siena and Florence. All in all, a unique, fascinating event that captured the imagination of all of Italy.

Luciano Viaro claims second place in the ‘race of wonders’ in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 SS from 1928.

Alfa Romeo comes second at the Mille Miglia

29.03.2006

Black, glossy and fast. Presenting the new Luna Rossa, the boat that will be challenging Alinghi for the 2007 Americas Cup. After the grey “Silver bullet”, the new ITA 86 is black and shiny, a 26-metre long dark carbon torpedo. Its launch will be celebrated in the port of Valencia, in Spain, where Luna Rossa has its new headquarters, designed by Renzo Piano, recycling fifty sails used by the Prada team in previous editions.
It has taken a staggering 52 thousand hours of work to create the new Luna Rossa, under the direction of the New Zealander Richard Gillies, but the end result is truly breathtaking.
Skipper Francesco de Angelis hasn’t taken his eyes of the newly-baptised creature, and just a few days from the launch, he has already taken her to see to try her out. To find out just how fast the Ita 86 will go, we will need to wait another few weeks, until reliable figures are available. The boat’s competition debut, on the other hand, is set for the upcoming Act Eleven of the Louis Vuitton Cup, scheduled from 11 to 21 May – a not-to-be-missed opportunity to assess how much we should start to dream in view of next year’s Americas Cup.
Alfa Romeo will be continuing its partnership with the Luna Rossa team as an Official Supplier, and will be closely following the races in the Louis Vuitton Cup scheduled between May and July.
Luna Rossa in numbers
18 men on board
26 metres in length
32.5 m2 – the height of the main mast from the deck
360 m2 of bowline sail
720 m2 of stern sail
24 tonnes – the weight of the entire boat (80% of ballast in the bulb)
28 people from 8 countries worked on building the boat.

The boat that will be challenging Alinghi in the 2007 Americas Cup is ready. Alfa Romeo is with the Team led by skipper, Francesco de Angelis.

The launch of Luna Rossa in Valencia

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