The first image purporting to be of the Alfa MiTo GTA has been leaked just ahead of the high performance sports coupé's world preview which is scheduled to take place at the 79th Geneva Motor Show in just under a fortnight's time. To be showing concept form in Geneva, the MiTo GTA is expected to be one of the show's stoppers. More details and information about this exciting project is expected to be officially announced within days.

The image reveals a front lower spoiler section almost completely cutaway to feed the maximum air to its powerful new 230 bhp 1.8 litre 4-cyl turbocharged engine. The honeycomb mesh that covers the gaping intakes run outwards to also serve to protect the front foglights. Two narrow cutouts in the underside of the jutting lower spoiler lip on either side serve to enhance this car's highly sporty aspect further. The front spoiler area's outline, which is contoured on either side, is mirrored by a sharp swage in the bodywork slightly above.

However the most interesting treatment has been wrought to the traditional radiator grille 'heart' and here the designers at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo have drawn further on the company's rich 99 year heritage for the MiTo GTA version. The MiTo project was already highly inspired by the unashamedly retro-looking Alfa 8C Competizione sports car, and a new nod to a famous history comes with the positioning of the round brand logo on the bonnet where it is now separated from the heart. Positioning the badge on the bonnet provokes evocative memories of famous Alfa Romeo race winning cars from the 1960s and 1970s, and it also means that the grille is left completely clear and so, complete with wider chromed slates, the 'heart' produces a very strong and dominant feel.

On the upper front wings, just behind the wheelarches a triangular vent draws further inspiration from the Alfa 8C Competizione theme. New deep ribbed side skirts complete the MiTo GTA's changes that can be made out from this image. The MiTo's usual customisation options can be seen carried over in the form of carbon-fibre headlight surrounds and door mirrors.