| These are the first images
of Alfa's new 156-based Coupe, commonly referred to as the "Sprint", in
the flesh. Based around the floorpan and mechanicals of the 156 saloon
with the same wheelbase, it is influenced by the smaller 147's styling,
but with more pronounced effects. Initially the Sprint will be offered
with the 2.0-litre direct-injection JTS engine, but 1.6 and 1.8-litre entry-level
versions will follow, along with a range topping 300 bhp 3.2-litre V6 JTS
GTA model which will offer 4x4.
The front has been styled
around the 147, but with a larger, more curved heart, and deeper bonnet
swages, to give the Coupe a more distinct appearance. The indicators on
this model have been blanked over. The side sees the 147's deep swages
introduced, while a neat tailgate and wrap around lights finish the rear.
The car carries the badge of designer Bertone to the rear of the doors.
This Coupe is caught being
used to test feedback and the shape is by no means final, while the rear
end especially, is expected to be subject alteration.
When it goes into production
at the end of the year, will be built in Naples, alongside the 147 and
156 range, and not as originally planned by Bertone. Fiat Auto boss, Giancarlo
Boschetti has gone for this option as he continues to shake up the company
in an effort to reduce mounting debts. Cost savings will come from the
synegies the model has with the production lines already in place and capacity
is available to produce the model at the planned rate of 20,000 units per
year. |
