Alfa Romeo to Return to US Market in 2013, CEO Confirms
Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has announced Alfa Romeo will relaunch in the United States next year, with the 4C sports car expected to spearhead the return.
Fiat chief executive Sergio Marchionne has confirmed that Alfa Romeo will return to the United States in 2013, marking the Italian brand’s most concrete step yet towards re-entering a market it left in 1995. Marchionne made the announcement at the launch of Fiat’s new joint venture plant in Changsha, China, underlining Alfa’s global ambitions beyond Europe.
Alfa Romeo’s American comeback has been promised and delayed repeatedly, but Marchionne’s statement gives the most specific timeline yet. The plan is for Alfa to relaunch in the US first, followed by a push into China. No detailed schedule was provided, but the commitment to 2013 was clear.
4C Sports Car Tipped as Launch Model
The Alfa Romeo 4C is widely expected to be the first model offered to American buyers. The mid-engined, rear-wheel drive coupé features a carbon fibre monocoque and carbon composite bodywork, aiming to deliver high performance at a price point similar to the Chevrolet Corvette. Early technical details point to a 1.75-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 296bhp, with 0-60mph estimated at 4.5 seconds.
Alfa’s return is a key test for the Fiat-Chrysler partnership, which has relied on Fiat’s global brands to strengthen Chrysler’s US operations. Marchionne, who leads both Fiat and Chrysler, sees Alfa’s revival as an opportunity to leverage Chrysler’s dealer network and manufacturing resources. The 4C’s positioning suggests Alfa will target enthusiasts and premium buyers rather than mass-market segments initially.
Next Steps and Market Challenges
While the 4C is set to headline the return, Alfa has other models in development, including an SUV planned for 2013. The company’s ambitions in China are also significant, with Marchionne’s announcement coming during the opening of a new Chinese joint venture plant. Alfa’s US relaunch will be closely watched by industry analysts, as previous attempts to return have been delayed or quietly shelved.
- Alfa Romeo 4C likely to be first US model.
- SUV and additional models planned post-2013.
- China identified as next major market after US relaunch.
The Alfa Romeo 4C’s production debut is rumoured to be scheduled for the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, but the company has not confirmed precise launch dates or pricing. For now, Marchionne’s 2013 pledge stands as Alfa Romeo’s next attempt to reclaim a place in the American market after nearly two decades away.
