The Alfa Romeo 4C was designed to spearhead the
company's resurgence but the model hasn't been a huge sales success as
Carsalesbase data shows the automaker sold a combined 1,671 units in Europe and
the United States last year.
Help is on the way as Alfa Romeo and Maserati
engineering boss Roberto Fedeli told Autocar the company is working on an
updated 4C which will feature a revised suspension and an improved steering
system.
The updated model could also come with a new engine
which would replace the turbocharged 1.75-liter four-cylinder that produces 237
hp and 349 Nm of torque. It allows the current model to accelerate from 0-60
mph in 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 257 km/h.
Fedeli wasn't ready to talk specifics but he said
“We are coming back to Formula 1 and we need the 4C to be our halo car.” Fedeli
also confirmed the updated 4C will not be offered with a manual transmission as
he doesn't think there's enough demand to justify it.
While the lack of a manual transmission won't please
the purists, Fedeli said Ferrari spent approximately € 10 (US$ 11.7) million to
offer a manual transmission in the California. In the end, just two cars were
equipped with the gearbox.
