High-performance Alfa Romeo Giulia races to broaden brand portfolio

Alfa Romeo is following up the 4C sports car with another serving of spicy Italian, the high-performance Giulia sedan. Sized to compete with the BMW 3 Series, the Quadrifoglio version unveiled this week looks to be a fitting sparring partner for the M3.

Instantly recognizable as an Alfa Romeo, the Giulia proudly wears the distinct trefoil nose, which grants this new sedan the visage of an angry Koala bear. Further distinguishing this special model is a Quadrifoglio (aka four-leaf clover) fender badge.

Beneath the hood is a turbocharged 510-horsepower six-cylinder engine inspired by corporate cousin Ferrari. The automaker claims 0-60 mph sprints in just 3.8 seconds—putting the weight-conscious Giulia on par with the Porsche 911 in a straight line. The company also talks tough regarding handling.

The Giulia is based on a rear-drive platform, and it will be offered with all-wheel drive. Great care was taken to achieve a 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution, a combination long heralded as essential for balanced handling. Numerous technical tidbits, such as an active air splitter and driver-selected performance modes, promise thrilling, adjustable driving dynamics.

The Giulia is coming the U.S. market next year, with specifics to be announced closer to the on-sale date.

—Jeff Bartlett

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