The introduction of the Stelvio has apparently
opened Alfa Romeo's appetite for yet another SUV, which will sit at the top of
the range. Rumored to be unveiled around
2020, as with any FCA related future product, better take that date
with a grain of salt, the brand's flagship SUV is said to challenge the likes
of the Volvo XC90, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. It will likely be
offered with a 7-seat layout in order to make it more competitive.
The Italians are looking to keep things simple, so
the as-of-yet-unnamed SUV will use the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio,
albeit with a longer wheelbase and a larger body, which will make it some 200 kg heavier than its
smaller sibling. The weight penalty includes the addition of a 48-volt mild
hybrid system, coupled to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine.
Subsequently to the introduction of the large SUV,
the FCA-owned brand is also planning the launch of a new compact hatchback,
which will serve as a replacement for the aging Giulietta. Further down the
road, a possible successor of the 4C is also being weighed in by execs, and
let's not forget that their road map includes an executive saloon to take on
the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5-Series, alongside another SUV, likely
smaller than the Stelvio.
Alfa Romeo also has two "specialty" cars
as well, which could debut before the turn of the decade, although nothing is
known about them so far.
