MiTo GTA turns up heat on MINI

The MiTo is getting mightier! Alfa Romeo has confirmed that a GTA model will top its all-new supermini range.

Speaking at the launch of the standard MiTo – which we drive on Page 28 – company boss Luca De Meo revealed plans for a super-hot version, which will be powered by an all-new engine.

The 1,750cc four-cylinder petrol unit harks back to the classic Giulia models of the Sixties. However, with ultra-modern direct injection and a turbocharger, it will be bang up to date mechanically.

The engine produces around 230bhp, enabling the MiTo GTA to out-punch its closest rival, the MINI Cooper S – which musters ‘only’ 175bhp from its 1.6-litre turbo unit. That power should be enough to propel the MiTo GTA to 60mph from a standstill in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of around 150mph. De Meo says it will be the fastest model in the class, “accelerating between 50mph and 75mph as quickly as the Alfa 8C supercar”.

While the Italian giant has yet to confirm many other details, it’s likely that the hot MiTo will follow in the footsteps of its bigger brother, the 147 GTA, when it comes to styling. That means a bodykit with wider tyres
and sporty alloy wheels. It will also get special seats and upgraded brakes.

The suspension will be stiffened and lowered, and Alfa’s DNA system – which gives owners the option of three driving modes – will be retuned to offer an even sportier ‘Dynamic’ setting, with sharper throttle and steering response. As the GTA will be front-wheel drive, an improved version of the Q2 system that features on all MiTos will be employed.

This operates by braking the inside front wheel slightly when accelerating out of tight turns, to maximise traction. The GTA will go on sale in late 2009, priced around £18,500.

The MiTo is vital to Alfa’s ambitions to increase its sales volume. It hopes to shift 70,000 of the superminis worldwide every year, with around 8,000 sales in the UK. Another key step in the firm’s bid for larger market share is an SUV – and De Meo has confirmed an Alfa 4x4 is on the way.

Again, the 8C will inspire the styling, and the car will be a cheaper rival to the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. So it promises a great on-road driving experience and mild mud-plugging ability. Sales are due to start in 2010.