Alfa Romeo CEO Luca de Meo first confirmed details about the upcoming GTA variant of the ultra-stylish MiTo hatch as far back as June 2008, revealing the car would arrive in the middle of this year packing a brand new 1.75L four-cylinder petrol engine turbocharged to the tune of 230hp (172kW).
Today Alfa Romeo released the first details about a concept version of the car that is scheduled to appear at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.
In line with the legendary GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) signature, (Alleggerito means reduced weight in Italian), the MiTo GTA Concept prioritises weight reduction, and the achievement of an optimum power-to-weight ratio.
Considerable work has gone into lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity, with certain components such as the tailgate spoiler, roof, and mirror fairings all finished in lightweight carbon-fiber. To save additional weight, aluminum is used extensively in the braking system, suspension, and some parts of the chassis.
Under the hood is a newly developed four-cylinder petrol engine. Designed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the compact engine features direct injection, dual variable valve timing, turbocharging and advanced electronic management to produce an impressive 240hp (179kW) from its 1.75L of displacement.
Other upgrades to the standard MiTo include under-floor aerodynamics enhancements, a revised front suspension with new geometry with aluminum leading arms, and all new bushings for the rear suspension.
Alfa Romeo engineers have also added an active suspension management system with advanced damper control as well as the Sky-Hook comfort adjustment.
A full selection of driver aids and safety devices, including multiple airbags, ABS, ESP, and EBD are standard, as are anti-slip control and steering-angle-sensitive torque limitation to reduce the tendency for torque steer.
Alfa Romeo is yet to announce a release date for the hot hatch but expect it to appear in European showrooms by the middle of the year.
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