• Give A Gift

Looking to capture the same hip cache of without resorting to retro styling, the MiTo is the latest entrant in the hot upscale subcompact market in Europe. The MiTo (which is named after the initials of Milan and Torino, the respective homes of Alfa and its parent, Fiat Auto) is being offered with a choice of a turbocharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine that makes 155 bhp or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel with 120 bhp on tap.

The distinctive styling features Alfa's signature vertical shield-shaped grille flanked by two huge headlamps. Think of it as a snub-nosed, hatchback little brother to Alfa's range-topping supercar.

Inside, drivers are coddled by rich-looking leather bucket seats and are fronted by an undulating dashboard covered in a faux-carbon-fiber-weave material. The gauges have a watch-face look to them, and the dash is topped by a portable satellite navigation unit that is part of the Microsoft-based Bluetooth system, similar to Sync, called Blue&Me which uses the technology to access mobile phones and MP3 players.

In addition, the MiTo is equipped with a 3-mode control that alters the vehicle's driving characteristics similar to the Manettino found on . Called the DNA switch, it allows the driver to select Dynamic, Normal or All-Weather modes. Dynamic mode reduces the electric-power steering assist to enhance road feel, adds extra boost from the turbocharger, quickens the response of the accelerator, and raises the threshold on the stability and traction control system. Conversely, in the All-Weather mode, the traction control becomes more aggressive, while the throttle inputs become less sensitive.

In addition to being a head-turner, the MiTo is a fun, tossable front-drive sporting ride. It has a slick-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox, great brakes and a spirited feel from its willing turbo 1.4-liter engine which, due to its diminutive size, is expected to deliver mileage in the 30-mpg-plus range. Unfortunately, Alfa Romeo has no current plans to include the MiTo in its model line when it returns to the United States in 2010, although it is expected to revisit those plans if it decides to build cars in North America.

If priced correctly, the MiTo could be a viable competitor to successful Mini and play a key role in attracting younger buyers to a brand that hasn't sold cars in the U.S. since 1993.

This Is A Developing Story

Related Stories

2 of 200
200 images