Giulia here next year as Alfa takes on Audis, BMWs, Mercs

Alfa Romeo Giulia

ALFA Romeo's new Giulia, the marque's new major challenge to the BMW 3-series, is due here later next year.

Seen as one of the most important developments in the famous company's history, it is the car they are hoping will also win over owners and drivers of the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 and Jaguar XE.

I'm told it will be the third quarter of next year before we see it in Ireland (that makes it a 171-reg - oh! my goodness). But I can tell you there will be 4cyl and V6 petrols and diesels in the lineup. That spread of powerplants will make it interesting to say the least.

Alfa claim they will virtually all be best in class on performance, economy and emissions.

They are also saying the Giulia has 50/50 front/rear weight distribution with a special suspension set-up (derived from a double wishbone set-up) at the front. At the rear there is a multi-link outline.

With extensive use of carbon fibre, aluminium composites and plastic, it is expected to weigh under 1,500kg.