Alfa Romeo's anticipated return to the United States could be delayed after the head of Fiat-Chrysler, Sergio Marchionne turned down a design proposal for the new Giulia model, reports MotorTrend.
Despite having a sexy and curvy body, Marchionne felt that the car was too German-looking rather than Alfa's typically Italian design.
Reports earlier this week suggested that the redesign could cost Americans the opportunity to buy the Alfa Romeo models before the 2012/2013 year, but Marchionne says "no, it's not true..."The Alfa launch into the U.S. was always slated at end 2012/beginning 2013."
The executive said this date has not changed in an email to the New York Times, according to the news source. Still, an official release has yet to be placed on the calendar.
Alfa Romero's Giulia 4-cylinder "pocket-size supercar" will reportedly have a 230-horsepower engine with superb acceleration, states MotorTrend. Thanks to a weight below 1900 pounds, the 4C should reach 60 mph in under five seconds.
Sources close to the Fiat Group claim the automakers hope to sell the Giulia at a base price between $60,000 and $65,000.