Alfa Romeo 4C priced under $90k

- Read our first drive of the Alfa Romeo 4C here

The wait for Alfa Romeo's 4C is almost over with the Italian brand confirming pricing and specifications ahead of its arrival in local showrooms next month.

The baby Italian supercar has been delayed for over 12 months due to its popularity in Europe - as well as spearheading the revival of the brand in North America - causing production constraints for right-hand drive variants at the Maserati factory where it is built.

But the lightweight carbon-fibre car is finally due to land here in February with a starting price of $89,000 plus on-road costs.

Alfa's Australian arm has also managed to secure a limited batch of 75 'Launch Edition' models that bring a host of upgraded parts within its $109,000 (plus on-roads) asking price.

Among the modifications for the 'Launch Edition' is race-tuned suspension, matte black alloys, a sports exhaust, revised front bumper, Bi-LED headlights and numerous pieces of carbon fibre exterior and interior trim.

Both models are powered by a 1.75-litre turbo charged four cylinder that produces 177kW and 350Nm and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Alfa claims the 4C can sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds.

Fiat Chrysler Australia CEO Pat Dougherty says the 4C is the beginning of Alfa's sporting revival which will be followed by a range of rear-drive sedans lead by the long-awaited Guilia to be revealed in June with a new Spider convertible and the brand's first SUV due in 2016.

Dougherty also claims the 4C makes supercar performance more accessible despite it coming in above its most direct rival, the ageing Lotus Elise which starts at $69,990 plus on-road costs. It is, however, more affordable than the entry-level Porsche Cayman, which starts at $106,600 (plus on-roads).

"The 4C marks the dawn of an exciting new era for Alfa Romeo," he said.

"This is a true Italian supercar offered at a price that is within reach of many Australians.

"The 4C is the first of an outstanding fleet of Alfa Romeo products and all will share the 4C's focus on style, performance and luxury". 

The open-top Alfa Romeo 4C revealed at last week's Detroit motor show will join the coupe in local showrooms later this year.

Alfa Romeo 4C pricing and specifications

On-sale: February 2015

Price: $89,000 (plus on-road costs), $109,000 (plus on-road costs) - Launch Edition

Engine: 1.75-litre four cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 177kW at 6000rpm

Torque: 350Nm at 2200-4250rpm

Transmission: Six-speed dual-clutch automatic

Weight: 1025kg

Performance: 4.5sec (0-100km/h)

Economy: 6.8L/100km