Alfa Romeo MiTo

Say ciao bella to Alfa Romeo’s new MINI rival. Thanks to inside information, we can exclusively reveal not only how the new car will look, but also what it will be called!

Alfa bosses considered the Junior and Furiosa badges for the forthcoming model, but sources tell us they’ve chosen MiTo. It is derived from two Italian cities: Milan, Alfa’s traditional home, and Turin (Torino), where owner Fiat is based. The MiTo uses Grande Punto underpinnings, but is inspired by the 8C Competizione, with slanted headlights and a shield-shaped grille.

However, its engine line-up promises to eclipse the Punto’s, thanks to a new 1.8-litre turbo motor delivering 180bhp. This will eventually be tuned to deliver as much as 230bhp. Other options include the Grande Punto’s 1.4 T-jet petrol and 1.9-litre diesel.

Development of the MiTo has been a painstaking process, as engineers bid to ensure it drives better than the MINI. As well as the three-door, there will be a five-door, while bosses are considering cabrio and estate versions.
The MiTo will debut officially at the Paris Motor Show in the autumn, and hit UK dealers early next year, with prices starting from £10,500.

At last week’s Geneva show, bosses also hinted a special model will be built to mark Alfa’s centenary in 2010. With replacements for the 147 and 166 already in the pipeline, that could see the new Duetto roadster get the green light.