After Alfa Romeo->ke1386 dropped the 166->ke1655 in 2007, there were rumors suggesting that there would be a successor for the model. And after a few years, those rumors seem to be back again. Apparently the company is preparing a new model, called the 169, which will be built on the the LX platform that currently underpins the Chrysler 300->ke937 and Dodge Charger->ke218.
The future 169->ke2170 will not be a classic sedan as was the 166. Instead, Alfa Romeo will adopt a four-door coupe body. The exterior design will be a mix of the Mito->ke3111, Giulietta, and the 8C->ke1431.
The new 169 will make its world debut at a major show in 2011 - most likely Geneva - and sales will begin in early 2012.
Hit the jump to read more about the future Alfa Romeo 166.
2012 Alfa Romeo 169
- Make: Array
- Model: 2012 Alfa Romeo 169
- Engine/Motor: V8
- Horsepower: 400
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Exterior and Interior
For the new 169, Alfa Romeo will combine design elements from the Mito, Giulietta, and the 8C. Expect to see a trilobe shape and a modern take on the classic inverted triangle classic Alfa grille. This grille will be set front and center in the front bumper and flanked on either side by a pair of oversize air intakes.
The interior, however, will be much more luxury oriented. There will be leather and high quality materials and all the latest technologies.
The Engine
The 2012 Alfa Romeo 169 will be offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines with power ranging from 175 to 250 HP, but the biggest news is a 3.0 liter twin-turbo V8 that will deliver around 400HP. This new engine will make it a serious competitor for the US market.
The Competition
Alfa Romeo has announced that the new 169 will take on models like the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, and the Jaguar XF->ke1236. The only question is: will it offer the same quality to make it a real competitor?
Since most of the other engines are not as important, we're going to talk about the V8. This engine is what will make it a real competitor on the market. The Mercedes E-Class gets a 5.5-liter eight-cylinder engine with 388 HP, while the 5-Series gets a V8 with 407 HP, so the 400 HP produced by the 169's V8 is right on the money with the rivals.
When Can I Buy One?
The new Alfa Romeo 169 will make its world debut in 2011, at the Detroit or Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning in 2012.