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Alfa Romeo to Ditch Hatchbacks for RWD Sedans

We already know Fiat is busy reviving its Alfa Romeo brand, one that used to roll out some of the most exquisite Italian automobiles, but a new report reveals some eyebrow-raising information.
2013 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione 1 photo
Photo: Alfa Romeo
According to Car, the Italians are planning a radical strategy switch that involves dumping their front-wheel drive hatchbacks, the Giulietta and the Mito, by 2015, and focusing on rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles.

The new plan will allow Alfa Romeo to compete agains German automakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, a company insider told Car: "Sure, design is important, Italian flair is important, top-notch quality is important, but it is impossible to challenge Audi, BMW and Mercedes if you cannot match the Germans in terms of vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure."

All told, Alfa Romeo will work closely with Maserati to develop a new modular platform that will underpin four models. The Alfa Romeo Giulia, a rival for BMW's 3 Series is scheduled to arrive in 2015, while an Alfetta model, that will challenge the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class will reportedly arrive in 2016.

The Italians will also introduce two crossovers, one that will battle with the BMW X1 and one that could take on the BMW X3 and the Audi Q5. These are expected to be introduced in 2017 and 2018 respectively. All vehicles are rumored to come with Maserati-developed V6 engines and hybrid drivetrains and eight-speed ZF transmissions.

Story via Car
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About the author: Ciprian Florea
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Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer.
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