Recent photographs taken at the Nürburgring confirm development of the Alfa Romeo Kamal is well underway.

Although the prototype in the photographs appears to be nothing more than a Fiat Stilo with increased ride height, it is in fact an all-wheel-drive Alfa Romeo Kamal mule.

The Fiat Stilo is a favoured base for mules, and has also been used previously for next generation Fiat Punto prototypes. 

Codenamed ‘Progetti 921’, the Alfa Romeo Kamal development recently resumed after being temporarily halted. It has now been given priority over the Alfa Romeo 166 replacement, the 167, which will be largely derived from the recent Visconti concept. 

Consequently, the Alfa Romeo Kamal is scheduled to go on sale between January and March 2006. It is also expected that the Alfa Romeo Kamal will get a huge burst of initial publicity when it is used as one of the official cars of the 2006 Winter Olympics. 
 

First shown to the public at the 2003 Geneva motor show, where it strongly impressed, the Kamal represents a stylish blend of different vehicle types.

Excellent off-road capabilities are matched with the supreme on-road handling that is typical of Alfa Romeo models. The marque are keen to join the growing SUV sector with an entrant that is in the Alfa Romeo spirit.

The compactness of the car, combined with the excellent interior packaging results in a highly versatile and functional vehicle. 

The Alfa Romeo Kamal project initially used an Alfa Romeo 147 platform as a base, however it has now become clear that the new GM Compact platform will be debuted under the Kamal.  

This platform will later be used for the Alfa Romeo 148 three-door, and five-door models which will go on sale during May and November 2006 respectively.

In addition, the Fiat Stilo replacement, as well as other future Fiat and Lancia models, as well as the 2009 Opel Vectra, will use this platform. 

Technically the Kamal is highly advanced, with both front and rear wishbone suspension. In addition, the suspension system uses height adjustable air springs which automatically lower whenever the car reaches a given speed.

The driver will also be able to adjust the ride height according to driving conditions. The result - exuberant temperament typical of sporty Alfa’s coupled with tremendous comfort. Engines will be sourced from the Alfa Romeo 157 range.
 

In terms of design, the Alfa Romeo Kamal concept portrays Alfa Romeo’s future compact cars.

Design touches can already be clearly observed on the front of the Alfa Romeo 147 replacement. The rear end has been the focus of a clever two-piece tailgate design, allowing both large and small objects to be placed in the luggage compartment with ease.

Several styling touches expressing the potent nature of the car will be featured, including an aggressive twin tail-pipe design incorporated in the rear bumper.

by Paddy Granger