Back magic from Alfa Junior

Following last week’s first official shots of the new 149, we can now reveal the latest picture of the firm’s funky new hatchback, due out in 2008.

An outline image of the trend-setting three-door has been shown before, but this is the first time we’ve seen the rear, complete with distinctive inset round lamps. Every line is flamboyant, as designers have been given free reign to make the Junior one of the best-looking hatches ever.

Alfa Romeo hopes that the new model will appeal to buyers in the 18-30 age group, and is aiming to tempt away fans of the MINI. The Junior’s pricing is likely to start at around £13,000. A wide model range will include everything from a 95bhp entry-level variant to a 230bhp GTA-badged flagship. The new car, which will be around four metres long, will also offer active suspension. Other new features will include MultiAir technology, which is set to improve the efficiency of turbocharged petrol engines.