Alfa Romeo is no stranger to style. The 2014 4C is evidence enough, though even the brand's economical hatchbacks have more presence than their price tags would suggest.
Fortunately, the 4C has more than just good looks going for it. A turbocharged 1.75-litre four-cylinder engine sits just behind the occupants, generating 180kW, with a 221kW version also on the drawing board. With just 895kg to move around, the 4C should be quick -- and nimble.
Alfa Romeo posts a 0-100km/h time of 4.5 seconds for the 4C, and a top speed of 258km/h -- although confirming either of those will shred their fuel economy claim of 6.8L/100km.
Other enticing features from the luxurious little sports car include a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a carbon monocoque chassis, and a sleek, minimalist cabin.
The Alfa Romeo 4C spearheads a product-led revival for Fiat and Alfa Romeo which is expected to boost value and increase the model mix for the brands -- which are now twinned with Chrysler in Australia under the global merger.
Fiat Chrysler Group Australia has already confirmed the Alfa Romeo 4C will arrive here after mid-2014. But it's likely to be a more expensive car here than in other markets, costing somewhere over the $100,000 mark.
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