Alfa Romeo’s expected return to the US market has been delayed at least half a year. It was expected that the brand would return sometime in 2012 with the 4C sports car and Giulia sedan, but it looks like there is a delay because Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is not happy with the design of the cars.
According to the latest reports, Marchionne is mainly unhappy with the design of the Giulia, which is supposed to replace the Alfa Romeo 159 and be offered as a sedan and wagon. Marchionne is not happy with the design proposals for the Giulia, so the launch is being delayed from late 2012 to mid-2013. This delay will especially hurt Alfa Romeo in Europe, which desperately needs the new model.
Marchionne is also not happy with the Chrysler team that has been tasked with turning the Guilia into the replacements for the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger, which are also due in 2013. All three models will share the same platform and powertrains.
Although the Giulia is being delayed, plans are still on track for a Alfa Romeo SUV that will be produced in late 2012 or early 2013. It will be based on the replacement for the Jeep Compass/ Patriot.
Full Story: Automotive News
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