Alfa Romeo is aiming to fill the small-car gap left when it gave the Giulietta the heave-ho with its new electric SUV. “Many of Alfa Romeo’s fans still miss the Mito and Giulietta, and now we revamp their stories. Welcome home,” said CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato at the launch of the new Milano.
The Milano comes in three flavors – two battery-electric versions and a mild hybrid. It sits on the Stellantis e-CMP2 platform which also underpins the Jeep Avenger and Fiat 600e. The petrol-electric gets a 1.2-litre Miller Cycle motor and a 37 bhp electric motor powered by a 47-volt battery for a combined 134 bhp. Drive goes through the front wheels via a six-speed auto, with a four-wheel-drive in the pipeline.
It’s the EVs that offer the most oomph though, with the entry level car providing 154 bhp and the racier Veloce delivering 237 bhp, and fitted with a Torsen limited slip differential to cope. Other enhancements include a lower ride height, quicker steering, bigger brakes and grippier tyres. Range from the 54 kWh battery is a claimed 255 miles.
It’s a cute-looking car, with a short wheelbase, minimal overhangs and some neat side sculpting. The most radical thing about the Milano’s appearance is the re-invented shield grille, featuring either the company’s trademark man-eating serpent or the words Alfa Romeo in stylish retro script.
The Milano, named after Alfa’s home town, is key to helping the brand go “from exclusive to inclusive,” said Imparato. Referencing the near-unicorn 33 Stradale he added, “Alfa is the only brand that is able to sell a car at €2 million and €30,000.”
The Milano will “attract a new generation of Alfisti,” he said. Would you consider becoming one of them?
