While looks are subject to personal interpretation, the mechanics behind the GTA are one hundred percent the creation of Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT). The 1.75l engine was designed using advanced technical solutions in the field of spark ignition engines, including direct gasoline injection, dual VVT, the turbocharger and a new management system.
The work put into the development of the powerplant makes the engine have similar performances to a 3.0l, while consumption is maintained at moderate levels typical of a 4-cylinder engine of average capacity, benefiting the environment and the operating costs.The 240 horsepower the engine develops are transformed into motion with the aid of sports mixture tires, fitted to 19 inch ultralight forged aluminum rims with “reverse” fluid-molded channel, shoed in Pirelli high-performance tires.
The engine has been designed to interact with the Alfa D.N.A. system which allows the driver to select the most suitable driving mode and thereby modify the operating parameters of the various vehicle systems.
The active suspension system is a result of collaboration between Alfa Romeo and Magneti Marelli. It is designed to reduce oscillation by counteracting the transfer of load under acceleration, stiffening the rear end and guaranteeing quick acceleration with maximum traction. In addition, the system is able to identify the driving situation and road surface conditions to choose the most appropriate control program.
The interface between the car and the driver is provided by the “Alfa D.N.A.” system with which, in addition to the normal functions, it is possible to adjust the geometry of the car according to the driving mode selected. The system has three operating modes: Dynamic, Normal and All Weather.
And, since you may need to stop really fast, Brembo has designed and produced a new brake caliper concept which is complemented by the dual-cast discs employing two materials, cast iron and aluminum. Together with the caliper, the braking system is 15 to 20 percent lighter than a traditional one.
Even if we find the design of the car to be odd, the aerodynamic research had a decisive influence on the technical choices and on the style of the car. The GTA combines an improvement in the CX drag coefficient to increase maximum speed and reduce consumption, a substantial increase in downforce to ensure maximum stability and safety at high speeds and efficient management of airflow at the front end to cool the engine compartment.
The MiTo GTA will be unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Whether you like it or not, the car is a "must see". The good, the bad, the ugly, whatever you want to call it, the GTA makes you respond to it by either a smile or a wry grin.
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