Alfa Romeo baby SUV could be built on shrunken Stelvio platform – report
Does that mean it'll be rear-wheel drive? Well, we're not going to write it off.
Alfa Romeo will build its new Audi Q3 and BMW X1 rival on a smaller version of the platform underpinning its Giulia and Stelvio, according to new reports out of the UK.
Coverage by Auto Express suggests Alfa Romeo will have two new SUV models in showrooms by 2021, the first of which targets the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace and Volvo XC40 and their fast-growing segment.
“There are two key segments: compact UV [utility vehicle] and full-sized UV,” Alfa Romeo boss, Timothy Kuniskis, told Auto Express. “These segments represent 81 per cent of global premium market growth. We will ensure each new product embraces our brand principles.”
The little city-based SUV will likely be based on a shrunken version of the platform underpinning the Giulia, which means it could be rear-wheel drive as standard with the option of all-wheel drive, in direct contrast to all its rivals and their front-drive origins.
A similar platform (or the same one) could also appear under the next-gen Giulietta. These reports are corroborated by another from Autocar, which confirmed the Mito won't be renewed as focus swings to to five-door, high-riding vehicles.
Although it's late to the compact SUV party, the report says Alfa will offer electrified drivetrains and Level 3 autonomy.
At the other end of the market, Alfa is reportedly plotting a large SUV rival to the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90, potentially with a performance-oriented plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Stay tuned to CarAdvice for all the latest.
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