First sketches to be released by Alfa Romeo offer a quick glimpse of the high performance MiTo GTA prior to its unveiling in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show.

Two images, showing the new model’s cambox cover air induction system, have been presented on the official website, AlfaMitoBlog, although as the site explains the colours used in the sketches would not be carried over to the actual car.

The Alfa MiTo GTA will be the eye-catching, range-topping version of the MiTo range, and its showing in Geneva next month comes less than a year after the B-segment hatchback went on sale in Italy. Since then the MiTo has been rolled out across the main European car markets, launching most recently in the UK during January. It has been well received already by customers. The GTA version will slot in as the top model in the MiTo range; currently this position is filled by the 1.4-litre T-Jet which has 155 bhp from its turbocharged engine.

To give it the performance to fend off its rivals the MiTo GTA will be powered by the Fiat Powertrain Technologies-developed new-generation ‘Family B’ 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with maximum power of 230bhp and peak torque of 350Nm being available for this application. It will be coupled up to FPT’s new C635 dual-dry-clutch transmission and the car is expected to be displayed in production form at the Frankfurt IAA in September. To go with its elevated status in the range the MiTo GTA will receive distinctive body styling and an upgraded interior with options including lightweight trim components.