04 Dec 08 16:19
Fiat is launching the Alfa Romeo 149 and new-generation Lancia Ypsilon at next autumn's Frankfurt Motor Show.
The 'Progetto 940' 149 will be previewed in concept form, showing clearly its resemblance to the Alfa Mito supermini. Though there will be some shared components with the Fiat Bravo, it will be built on a more sports-oriented platform known internally as 'C-Evo'.
The 149 will come in five-door bodystyle only - the launch of the Mito has rendered a three-door version unnecessary.
Engines for the range will include a new version of the Fiat Group's 1.4 T-Jet turbo unit, now with the Multiair variable valve-actuation technology, plus the new Multijet 2 diesels.
Higher-performance models will also get an all-new direct-injection 1.8 turbo, eventually to be offered with both 200bhp and 250bhp outputs. A new double-clutch sequential-shift gearbox (similar to Volkswagen's DSG) will be optional, as well as Alfa's Q4 four-wheel-drive system.
While this new hatch is still referred to as the 149, Alfa Romeo is considering reintroducing the 'Giulietta' name-badges. The name 'Milan' is also rumoured.
Also making its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show will be the all-new Lancia Ypsilon supermini. This will not be a straightforward sister model to the Mito, it seems, but the first of a new 'family' of cars based on a new platform - a longer version of the Fiat 500's underpinnings, to also form the basis of the next-generation Panda and Grande Punto.
The Ypsilon will be five-door only and will have a comfort-oriented character and top-level specification. Right-hand-drive models are planned for UK sale.
