Alfa Romeo is working on a new 300bhp, 1.8-litre four-cylinder motor that will meet the super-strict Euro 6 and US Tier2Bin5 emissions regs, which are due to hit in 2014 (the Euro 6 bit, at least).
The new engine will, according to reports in the Italian press, be an all-aluminium unit, with Fiat's clever Multiair variable valve tech, high-pressure direct injection and a high-capacity turbo.
The new engine will be in production in the early part of 2013 and is set to make its debut in the new Giulia (the successor to the 159), though we won't see that in Blighty until early 2014.
Since the new engine can be mounted either transversely or longitudinally, however, it is also likely to serve beneath the bonnet of Alfa's forthcoming flagship saloon, which will be rear-wheel drive (yay!) and based on the next-gen Chrysler 300C (boo...)
"This is a key step in our efforts to reposition the brand Alfa Romeo for global distribution. The introduction of the brand in the U.S. market in 2013 remains our primary goal, "says Harald J Wester, Fiat's Chief Technology Officer and head of Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands. "The efforts of resources across the Group for development of gearboxes and transmissions that meet the specific needs of Alfa Romeo are proof of our renewed commitment to the development of this brand."
