The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show. Sales of the new model will start in spring and be gradually extended to all the major markets. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is expected to give new impetus to the brand in one of Europe’s most important segments.
In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. The Giulietta is a car that, in the fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.
The Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a sports car capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads.
A new architecture for enhancing road hold and agility in total comfort and safety
Meet the new Alfa Romeo, a compact created to appeal to customers who seek top dynamic performance and those who are looking for a distinctive style and a high level of comfort.
The Giulietta has brand-new architecture, designed to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers in terms of road holding, agility and safety. Its excellent dynamic performance and great comfort are the result of refined technical solutions implemented in the suspensions, a next-generation steering system, a rigid yet light structure made of aluminium and high-strength steel, and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.
Alfa DNA, a device which customises behaviour of the car according to different driving styles and road conditions, can adapt the new Alfa Romeo to the needs of each individual driver to enhance driving pleasure and comfort. The new architecture of the Alfa Giulietta was designed to integrate and enhance all onboard systems. Three set-ups (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) are available and can be selected using the Alfa DNA. This device – standard across the entire range of the new model – modifies the operating parameters of the engine, of the steering system, and of the Q2 electronic differential, in addition to fine-tuning the stability control system (VDC) behavioural logics.
Italian style sportiness and comfort
Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo’s new direction in style and technology – an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand’s glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.
The front end is developed around a ‘trilobe shape’ and features a brand-new interpretation of the classic Alfa grille, set into the front bumper and suspended between the two air intakes. The entire car develops from here to combine a lively personality with an elegant form. The front headlamps implement LED technology and a Daytime Running Lights (DRL) function for maximum active safety.
The profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is rich in personality and confers the appearance of an agile, solid model. This is above all the result of the coupé shaped side windows, which highlight dynamic and streamlined shape, and of the concealed rear handles. The side ribbing adds to the car’s slender look, while the taut lines closing in on the rear end accentuate the ‘wedge’ shape of the body.
The style of the rear end, like that of the front and the side, is strong and consolidates the impression of a muscular car, firmly gripped to the road. Like the headlamps, the rear light clusters implement LED technology, to the advantage of preventive safety, in addition to good looks.
The interior design is taut and light: a horizontally developed dashboard with aluminium element accents and rocker controls which explicitly recall the 8C Competizione. Painstaking attention to detail and the high quality of the materials used are the most advanced expression of Italian style.
Finally, the dimensions of the new car give a compact, dynamic shape combined with excellent roominess and a capacious boot (350 litres): the car is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metre high and 1.80 metres wide with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.
Innovative engines for exciting, environmentally friendly driving
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees top level performance and next-generation technology in terms of technical solutions, performance and environmental friendliness. Four Turbo engines will be available at launch, all Euro 5 compliant and fitted with a standard ‘Start&Stop’ system for reducing consumption and emissions: two petrol engines (1.4TB – 120 HP and 1.4TB MultiAir – 170 HP) and two diesel engines (1.6 JTDM – 105 HP and 2.0 JTDM – 170 HP, both belonging to the second generation of JTDM engines). Finally, the range is completed with the lively 1750 TBi – 235 HP with an exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde configuration.
Safety and dynamic behaviour at the top of the segment
Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to obtain the maximum Euro NCAP rating in order to offer total protection to driver and passengers. Furthermore, suspension, steering and braking system are designed to be perfectly balanced even during extreme manoeuvres.
Finally, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is fitted with the most sophisticated electronic devices for dynamic control as standard: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), DST (Dynamic Steering Torque), Q2 electronic differential and Alfa DNA selector. All these systems guarantee driving safety, dynamism and performance in the best Alfa Romeo tradition.
Source – Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo at the 80th International Geneva Motor Show
The Giulietta is the undisputed star of the booth and of the Alfa Romeo Centenary. With the new car – capable of expressing both great agility over the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads – the Brand continues in its custom of presenting all its new products and features in a world preview on the occasion of the Geneva Motor Show. Indeed, after the Alfa 159 and the Alfa Brera in 2005, the Alfa 159 Sportwagon, the Alfa Spider in 2006 and the Alfa 8C Spider in 2008, now is the time to present the Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
The Giulietta is a five-door hatchback, with an evident Alfa Romeo appearance, capable of expressing both great agility over the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads. This is thanks to the new ‘Compact’ architecture which, thanks to the refined technical solutions employed for the suspension, the dual pinion active steering, the fine materials used and the manufacturing technologies implemented, allows the Giulietta to achieve excellent levels both in terms of on-board comfort as well as its dynamic and safety features (active and passive). From May this year, the model will be on sale progressively on all the major markets, while visitors of the Geneva Motor Show will be able to admire five different models: two Quadrifoglio Verde versions fitted with the 235 HP 1750 TBi, two Distinctive versions with 170 HP 2.0 JTDM and a Distinctive version fitted with the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol. The name of the new car is an obvious tribute to the mythical Giulietta which, in the Fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.
The booth will also include a charming historic model to pay homage to the time-honoured history of Alfa Romeo: the 24 HP, the brand’s very first vehicle, produced between 1910 and 1920 which was extremely popular thanks to its mechanical features, performance levels and driving comfort.
The spotlight will also be on the Alfa Romeo MiTo which will be showing off two highly interesting novelties in Geneva: ‘Alfa TCT’ and ‘Blue&Me–TomTom’. The first new feature is an automatic dual dry clutch transmission which guarantees driving comfort and a sporty feeling well above those offered by conventional automatic transmissions, but improved efficiency and lower consumption levels. On the Alfa Mito, the new device is combined with the Start&Stop system in order to minimise consumption levels and CO2 emissions. In addition, the technological qualities of the Alfa Romeo MiTo are further enhanced by the second novelty to be presented at the Geneva Motor Show: namely, ‘Blue&Me–TomTom’, the latest version of the Blue&Me system. It is a fully integrated infotainment system whose practical colour touch-screen allows you to manage phone calls, satellite navigation and all the driving information you need. The device is the result of a partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles and TomTom, the European leader in portable navigation systems, and integrates with the other car’s systems thanks to the Blue&Me system developed with Magneti Marelli.
The MiTo is shown in two versions at the Motor Show: a Distinctive 135 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol (fitted with ‘Alfa TCT’ automatic transmission and the ‘Blue&Me–TomTom’ portable satellite navigation system) and an exclusive MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde fitted with the powerful 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol, an historical symbol of the brand, which now represents a new kind of sportiness that combines maximum driving pleasure with improved environmental qualities. Such as the outstanding weight/power ratio (6.7 kg/HP), guaranteeing record-breaking agility, plus an exceptional specific power of 124 HP/litre, a real first for this category. In addition, as far as the typical reduction in emissions and fuel consumption of downsizing is concerned, the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol records 139 g/km of CO2 and 4.8 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle: figures you might expect from an economy car rather than a compact sports car that goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just over seven seconds.
In addition, the Swiss event would not have been complete without an area dedicated to the charming Alfa 8C Spider, the supercar designed at the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile and produced in a Limited Edition (of just 500 models). Its fully carbon fibre exterior embodies perfectly Alfa Romeo’s motoring and mechanical excellence. Fitted with the mighty 4.7 litre 8 cylinder engine that develops 450 HP, teamed – thanks to transaxle architecture – with a 6-speed sequential manual gearbox, the Alfa 8C Spider immediately turns heads due to its unmistakable Italian elegance, an absolutely unique and unrepeatable style that promises the satisfaction of a sporty drive with full respect for Alfa Romeo tradition. Emphasis must be place on the important and excellent Brembo carbon ceramic brakes (CCM) braking system fitted as standard. This solution ensures powerful and effective braking even when used more intensely as well as further reducing the non-suspended mass, improving the dynamic vehicle control and driving comfort of this prestigious supercar.
In short, Alfa Romeo returns to the Geneva International Motor Show with a multitude of auto innovations, in a spectacular booth conceived as an ideal blend of design and technology, sportiness and sophisticated styling.
Lastly, brochures and customised totems at the booth will be introducing visitors to the products of FGA Capital, a joint venture of Fiat Group Automobiles and Crédit Agricole specialised in the automotive segment. The finance company will be operative in Italy and across Europe with a sole mission: supporting the sales of all Fiat Group Automobiles brand vehicles by offering innovative financial products with high added value services targeted to the dealership network, private customers and companies.
Source – Alfa Romeo
Having made its world preview at the recent Geneva International Motor Show, the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta makes its debut today and, from May this year, will be marketed progressively on all the major markets, thus relaunching the brand in one of the most important segments in Europe.
In Alfa Romeo’s Centenary year, the name Giulietta is a tribute to an automobile and an Alfa Romeo legend. In the Fifties, the Giulietta caught the imagination of car enthusiasts throughout the world, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying its high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.
Now the Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a five-door hatchback with an evident Alfa Romeo appearance and capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday journeys. This is due to the new Compact platform which, thanks to the sophisticated technical solutions employed for the suspension, the dual pinion active steering, the sophisticated materials used and the manufacturing technologies implemented, allows the Giulietta to achieve exceptionally high standards both in terms of on-board comfort as well as its dynamic and safety features (active and passive).
A new platform to enhance road holding and agility in total comfort and safety
The Giulietta introduces an entirely new platform – called Compact – designed to satisfy the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety. It ensures both exceptional dynamic performance and high comfort levels, thanks to the refined technical solutions employed for the suspension, a new-generation steering system, a light and rigid structure created from materials such as aluminium and high-strength steels, and avant-garde manufacturing techniques.
This new platform will allow the Giulietta to accommodate the needs of all customers in this category, combining on-board comfort, functional interiors and generous boot space, with the dynamic qualities that belong to every Alfa Romeo. Furthermore, driving satisfaction and comfort can be adapted to meet every customer’s specific needs thanks to the Alfa DNA selector, a device that customises the vehicle’s behaviour to suit different road conditions and driving styles. The new platform of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to integrate the vehicle’s different systems and exploit them to the full, thus emphasising the three set-up functions (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) available through the Alfa DNA selector. This device, fitted as standard on the entire range of the new model, is designed to modify the operating parameters of the engine, gearbox, steering system and Q2 electronic differential, in addition to the behaviour logic of the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC).
Sporty and comfortable, Italian style
The perfect blend of sportiness and style, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta redefines the Brand’s technological standards and emotional values.
The front displays a brand new interpretation of the classic shield, embedded in the front bumper and suspended between the air vents. This is the starting point for the design of the entire car, which combines an energetic personality with a distinctly elegant form. The front headlights have DRL with LED technology and a day light function for maximum active safety.
Even the profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is brimming with personality, giving the impression of an agile and sturdy car. This is above all due to the side windows which recall the appearance of a coupé, emphasising the dynamism and fluidity of form, thanks also to the concealed rear door handles. The ribs on the sides of the vehicle seem to elongate the car while the clean lines which end at the rear accentuate the angular shape of the car’s body.
The rear, like the front and side, features distinct styling which emphasises the feeling of a muscular car, firmly gripped onto the road surface. In addition, like the headlights, the innovative rear lights also use LED technology, not only for the sake of style but also preventive safety.
Lastly, the measurements of the new car amount to a compact and dynamic shape, while at the same time guaranteeing excellent comfort and a spacious boot (350 litres): it is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metres high and 1.80 metres wide, with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.
Advanced features for maximum wellbeing on board
Attention to detail and high quality materials used for interiors are, today as always, the most developed expression of Italian style. More specifically, the dominant concept in the interiors of the new model is lightness. The lines are clean and the dashboard develops horizontally. The seats are comfortable and their shape is designed to ensure maximum comfort during long journeys.
Thanks to the advanced ergonomics in the interior design, every switch is ideally located: the main ones are grouped together at the centre of the dashboard and feature the same design as those on the 8C Competizione.
The navigation system with pop-up display allows drivers to safely display the route or the mechanical operating parameters set by the Alfa DNA device without having to take their eyes off the road.
There are practical open storage compartments situated in various areas of the passenger compartment: in front of the gearbox, on the centre console and on the interior trim of the doors. There are closed storage compartments – depending on the version – on the top of the dashboard, under the dashboard opposite the front passenger (cooled with dual zone climate control) and in the front and rear armrests.
Innovative engines for a thrilling, environmentally-friendly drive
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees the highest levels of performance and technology through a range of engines that are state-of-the-art in terms of technology, performance levels and environmental-friendliness. At the time of its commercial launch, 4 Turbo engines will be available, all Euro 5 compliant and with a Start&Stop system to reduce consumption levels and emissions fitted as standard: two petrol versions (120 HP 1.4TB and 170 HP 1.4TB Multiair) and two diesels (105 HP 1.6 JTDM and 170 HP 2.0 JTDM, both second-generation MultiJet engines). The range is completed by the high performance 235 HP 1750 TBi with direct injection and scavenging control in combination with exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde interiors.
This latter version equipped with a 235 HP 1750 TBi engine perfectly represents the way in which Alfa Romeo offers the most in this segment. Not just a means of transport, but a vehicle that can really connect with the customer. There is strong acceleration thanks to high torque levels even at low revs, a smooth response that minimises gearbox use thanks to the flexibility typical of modern petrol engines, and an engine note that is engaging without ever becoming intrusive. In detail, the 1750 Turbo petrol engine boasts advanced technical solutions including direct fuel injection, dual continuously variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that gets rid of any turbo lag. The resulting performance is comparable to – or better than – that of many 3-litre engines while still delivering fuel consumption typical of a compact four cylinder unit. It should be noted that the specific power of 134 HP/litre is the highest in the world for a 4-cylinder unit installed in this category of vehicles, as well as being the highest ever achieved by an Alfa Romeo production engine. The specific torque too, totalling 194 Nm/litre, is the highest of all petrol engines in this category, while the maximum torque of 340 Nm, reached at just 1,900 revs, is excellent.
The range of engines available can accommodate the needs of all customers. First of all the 120 HP 1.4TB is the ideal engine for those in search of a car that can handle city traffic effortlessly while keeping running costs to a minimum. The turbo engine guarantees prompt response even at low revs (maximum torque is achieved at just 1,750 revs) while Start&Stop, in the city, makes it possible to cut consumption and harmful emission levels drastically, without compromising comfort and on-board safety.
The 170 HP 1.4 TB Multiair engine is an amalgam of technology, which blends high performance levels with the lowest emissions and fuel consumption levels in its class for petrol engines of this power rating. It is a brilliant and flexible engine, with a maximum torque of a generous 250 Nm (when set to Dynamic), fitted with a Start&Stop system and with fuel consumption and emission levels resembling a diesel engine more than a petrol one with this power rating (4.6 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle and 134 g/km of CO2 emissions). The combination of this engine with the new platform places the Giulietta at the top of its segment both for its dynamic qualities as well as comfort and practicality during everyday use.
The 105 HP 1.6 JTDM is a flexible and economical diesel engine that will surprise customers due to its prompt response (in Dynamic mode, max. torque is a generous 320 Nm at just 1,750 revs) combined with extremely low fuel consumption (in the extra-urban cycle, it is just 3.7 l/100 km). This is possible thanks to the combination of second-generation MultiJet technology and the Start&Stop system. Consequently, it is an engine dedicated to all those in search of a car with character and a distinctive style, affording the typical agility and handling of an Alfa Romeo yet able to combine the latter with limited running costs.
For customers who use the car mostly on the motorway or who demand the maximum performance levels from a diesel engine, Alfa Romeo suggests the 170 HP 2.0 JTDM. Again, it is an amalgam of technology which combines second-generation MultiJet technology with the Start&Stop system. The result is a vehicle with the highest performance levels of its segment, extremely flexible driving (with the dna selector set to Dynamic mode, the available torque at 1,750 revs is a generous 350 Nm), among the lowest fuel consumption and emission levels in its category for cars with this power rating (124 g/km of CO2 and 4.1 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle). Thanks to the exceptional qualities of the new compact platform, this version is able to blend fantastic dynamic and motoring performance levels with the highest comfort and practicality in its segment.
All the engines are combined with a state-of-the-art manual 6-speed gearbox belonging to the three axle transmission family, which can withstand and transmit high maximum torque values. Subsequently, the Multiair and 170 HP 2.0 JTDM engines will also be combined with an innovative dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Segment-leading safety, comfort and dynamic behaviour
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to achieve the highest Euro NCAP safety rating to offer total protection for both driver and passengers. In addition, the new platform was devised to guarantee the utmost interaction of the systems in charge of controlling the vehicle dynamics.
All this is controlled by the real ‘brain’ of the vehicle, namely the Alfa dna device, which manages all the sophisticated electronic devices for dynamic vehicle control: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), Dual Pinion Active Steering, the Q2 electronic differential, the response and torque curve of the engine, the braking system with pre-fill function. All these systems guarantee genuine Alfa Romeo driving safety, vehicle traction and performance.
The new compact platform, thanks to the sophisticated technical solutions employed for the suspension and the materials used, such as high-strength steels, aluminium, magnesium and xenoy, can accommodate the needs of the most demanding customers in terms of on-board comfort and quiet running, placing the Giulietta at the top of its category also in terms of the everyday practicality of the vehicle.
Extensive range
Devised to cater for the different needs of segment C car drivers in pursuit of driving satisfaction and comfort, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is available in two versions (Progression and Distinctive), along with two customisations (Sport Pack and Premium Pack).
All the devices linked to active and passive safety are fitted as standard on the entire range. The Progression version comes with the Alfa dna system (with Q2 electronic differential and DST), VDC (including ASR and hill holder), 6 airbags, front seat belts with dual pretensioners and front seats with anti-whiplash system as standard. The standard equipment also includes manual climate control, 16” wheels, front and rear electric windows, trip computer, stereo system with dual tuner radio, 6 speakers and MP3 CD player. The latter version (Distinctive) offers the following in addition to the standard equipment of the former: 16′ alloy wheels, dual zone automatic climate control, leather steering wheel with radio controls, front armrest with storage compartment, cruise control, fog lights, reconfigurable control panel, seats upholstered in Competizione fabric, front armrest, and a stylish chromed insert (chrome line) framing the side windows. The dashboard on the Distinctive version is also distinguished by a stylish insert painted in magnesium grey or, alternatively, in Ghiaccio white, Alfa Red as well as in brushed burnished aluminium.
Customers can further customise their Giulietta with two specific Packs (Sport and Premium). The first pack is designed to highlight the sporty character of the vehicle with specific features which improve the already excellent handling of the car and includes 17”or 18” alloy wheels, side skirts, sports pedals, sports seats with leather and microfibre fabric upholstery, brushed burnished aluminium dashboard insert, burnished headlight frames and dark interiors (black ceiling and pillar lining).
For customers in search of even more technological and complete on-board equipment, the Premium Pack includes bi-xenon lights with AFS function, the Blue&Me system with Bluetooth function, USB port and MP3 player, radio/mobile phone controls on steering wheel, rear parking sensors, rain-dusk-humidity sensors, electrically folding door mirrors and an electrochromic rear-view mirror.
To customise their Giulietta, customers can also choose from the list of options available, including a large panoramic sunroof, navigation system with maps and pop-up display and a Bose® Hi-fi. In addition, the Blue&Me–TomTom system is also available, which adds navigation functions to the functions of the Blue&Me® thanks to the TomTom portable navigation system which is perfectly integrated with the vehicle’s existing systems thanks to a Bluetooth® interface. The TomTom portable navigation system is positioned on the dashboard using a support designed to guarantee maximum safety in the event of impact and complete integration with the vehicle’s other systems and improved ergonomics in everyday use.
There is also a special trim specification dedicated to the version fitted with the 235 HP 1750 TBi engine. It’s called the Quadrifoglio Verde (four-leafed clover), a legendary brand which has competed on tracks all over the world. Only available on this engine type, this special version is distinguished by its sporty lowered ride height (15 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear), 17” wheels (18” as an optional), an enhanced braking system with calipers painted Alfa red, as well as sporty interiors which include sporty leather and microfibre seats. All designed to guarantee the best in driving pleasure and segment-leading active and passive safety. It offers reduced fuel consumption for this power rating; the ‘Quadrifoglio Verde’ is thus reinterpreted for today, combining the utmost driving pleasure with greater environmental awareness for eco-conscious and environmentally-friendly sportiness.
Source – Alfa Romeo
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta introduces the brand new ‘Compact’ architecture
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta introduces an entirely new architecture – ‘Compact’ – designed to satisfy the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety. It ensures both exceptional dynamic performance and high comfort levels, thanks to the refined technical solutions employed for the suspension; a new-generation steering system; a light and rigid structure created from materials such as aluminium and high-strength steels, with avant-garde manufacturing techniques. Furthermore, driving satisfaction and comfort can be adapted to the meet every customer’s specific needs thanks to the Alfa DNA selector, a device that customises the vehicle’s behaviour to suit different road conditions and driving styles.
So, the new Alfa Romeo is a completely new car which, drawing on the spirit of its famous predecessor, is without a doubt a sports car capable of expressing both great agility over the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads. Plus, thanks to a specific suspension calibration offered by the Sport Pack, the sportiness of the new Giulietta can be further enhanced.
The new ‘Compact’ architecture continues Fiat Group Automobiles’ architecture rationalisation strategy – preceded by the ‘Mini’ architecture for segment A and the ‘Small’ for segments B and L0 – and is a true ‘point of departure’ from previous architectures due to the new content introduced, the materials used and the levels of performance achieved. Also, from the earliest design stages, the aim was to create a new architecture that would allow future Fiat Group Automobiles segment C vehicles, starting with the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta, to be ranked ‘best in class’ in terms of handling, steering feel, performance to weight ratio, ride comfort, NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness), safety (active and passive) and climatic comfort.
First of all, the underbody represents a generational leap in terms of the materials used. The entire structure is now significantly stronger and provides better performance without any increase in weight with respect to the previous generation. All this is thanks to the ever wider use of high and ultra-high strength materials, which now make up more than 90% of the total mass of the system: some structural parts, designed to provide high strength and the ability to absorb impact with minimal deformation, have been made from hot-pressed tempered steel.
Moreover, lightweight materials have been used for several structural elements bolted to the body structure. For instance, the front beam connecting the front struts and the third load path are made from extruded aluminium. The rear bumper beam and the third load path energy absorption elements are made from Xenoy (a thermoplastic with excellent energy absorption properties in relation to weight). The third load path energy absorption elements absorb the energy of low-speed impacts with obstacles and support the bumper in impacts with pedestrians. Employing these solutions has provided a weight reduction of 8.5 kg at the front and 4 kg at the rear with respect to conventional steel structures, without compromising safety performance.
Another new feature of the underbody is its modularity, which makes it ideal for use on a family of vehicles with different wheelbases. This modularity is provided by several central floor panels and the side members and does not affect any part of the front and rear structures. This reduces outlay to a minimum and means that the system can be applied to other vehicle systems without modification.
Many of the systems and components that make up the ‘Compact’ architecture have been thoroughly revised with respect to the previous generation, improving performance and reducing weight (-35% for both the framework of the rear seats as well as the magnesium alloy cross car beam).
Giulietta offers exceptional handling performance and comfort levels thanks above all to the new suspension system employed. The Mc Pherson front suspension in particular was revised to offer maximum rigidity under side loads, reducing the weight thanks to the use of aluminium (saving 4 kg with respect to cast-iron solutions). The rear suspension is, on the other hand, brand new: the layout is a sophisticated, cutting-edge Multilink that does not compromise the useful volume of the luggage compartment and, thanks to the aluminium wishbones, allows for a weight reduction of over 10 kg with respect to conventional Multilink systems.
In addition, the new electric power steering system ensures an excellent steering feel and is integrated with the vehicle’s active safety systems. The climate control system was also specifically designed to provide the best climatic conditions in the passenger compartment, while significantly reducing over-consumption of fuel (30% less than a conventional system). Similarly, thanks to specific technical features, exceptional noise and vibrational quality values have been achieved.
In terms of passive safety, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was produced to obtain the maximum Euro NCAP rating, as demonstrated by over fifteen thousand hours of mathematical modelling, 80 crash tests, 150 tests on a HyGe slide and more than 100 tests on components and sub-systems. In detail, the new third load path increases the energy absorption potential of the vehicle front end and reduces both inertial forces and passenger compartment intrusion, thereby ensuring optimum passenger protection at higher impact severity. Safety is guaranteed by 6 airbags (as standard on the entire range); three-point seatbelts with double pretensioners and load limiters; the collapsible pedal unit and steering column; the second-generation anti-whiplash system and the Isofix mountings.
Lastly, in terms of active safety, the new architecture of the Alfa Giulietta was designed to integrate the vehicle’s different systems and exploit them to the full, thus emphasising the three set-up functions (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) available through the Alfa DNA selector. This device, fitted as standard on the entire range, is designed to modify the operating parameters of the engine, gearbox, steering system and Q2 electronic differential, in addition to the behaviour logic of the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC). Giulietta will also be introducing Pre-Fill – a new function – activated when the DNA is set to Dynamic, which uses the VDC system to provide the driver with the quickest braking response possible. These sophisticated features which improve the dynamic control of the vehicle are supported further by the Dynamic Steering Torque (DST), a function which provides the driver with a feed-back torque at the steering wheel that helps him to perform critical manoeuvres correctly, before the VDC intervenes to prevent loss of control.
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