After nearly a decade on the road, Alfa Romeo is finally putting the 147 out to pasture and introducing a new rival in the family hatchback market. Expected to be called the Milano, the new car will showcase at the upcoming Frankfurt motor show in September.
The new car carries on the design language of the recently launched MiTo supermini, which is a very positive and confident move for the brand. That means large bulbous headlights out front and smaller circular rear lights on the tail.
Calling it the Milano means an end to the numeric system, although some media reports suggest it will be called the 149.
However, sources suggest that Alfa has now opted to scrap the numbers and will replace the current 159 family car with the Giulia name tag when the replacement time arrives.
As usual in the hatchback market there will be a wide range of engine choices, including the MiTo’s 155bhp 1.4-litre turbo, while range-topping models will get the classic Alfa 3.2-litre V6. Sales are expected to start early next year.