New Alfa Romeo Giulietta

• Family feeling with Giulia: shared appearance and line-up logic.
• Even sportier: specific new exterior details and the new Veloce pack available on all petrol and diesel engine versions.
• Making its debut is the new 1.6 JTDm 120 HP turbo diesel with Alfa TCT.
• Always connected with the new Uconnect system LIVE services.
• Rational line-up: three trim levels (Giulietta, Giulietta Super and Giulietta Veloce), two new packs (Veloce and Lusso), nine engine versions, eleven body colours and twelve different 16" and 18" alloy rims with three exclusive designs.

To keep on playing a leading role in the segment, Alfa Romeo Giulietta has been refreshed with a bolder sport characterisation, new specific elements and an unmistakable family feeling shared with the fascinating Giulia, which is the new Alfa Romeo paradigm and ultimate expression of the meccanica delle emozioni - or mechanics of emotions - concept.

New Giulietta comes with important innovations, like the new 1.6 JTDm 120 HP turbo diesel engine paired with the Alfa TCT and the extremely useful Live services on the Uconnect system available on the entire range. In addition, the line-up has been rationalised and now features three trim levels (Giulietta, Giulietta Super and Giulietta Veloce), two packs (Veloce and Lusso) and nine engine versions (petrol, diesel and LPG) so customers can more simply and quickly pick the version most suited to their inclinations and needs and then customise it with optional equipment and accessories.

Ready to face future challenges, New Giulietta embodies the unrivalled "Alfa Spirit", which for over one century has typified the cars made by Alfa Romeo. They are light and efficient - resulting from the choice of materials and the correct weight-to-power ratio - and are the perfect expression of the care for detail typical of only the very best Italian designs. Additionally, they are agile on the road with responsive steering, evolved suspensions and balanced weight distribution.

Finally, New Giulietta fits a host of features developed by Magneti Marelli - from lighting devices to powertrain, suspensions and exhaust systems - as further confirmation of the consolidated and mutually profitable collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the well-known international leader in the design and manufacturing of high-tech automotive systems and components.

Refreshed looks and sportier characterisation

Today, the family feeling of New Giulietta with Giulia, which is the new Alfa Romeo paradigm, is enhanced and embodied by several exterior style elements, such as the one-of-a-kind honeycomb grille and the new front bumper which recalls the shape of the legendary front trefoil, arguably one of the most famous and recognisable symbols in the automotive world. Similarly, the lettering of the name "Giulietta" and its position on the back wink to those of Giulia. The new model also sports the refreshed logo, which has been modernised preserving the distinctive style elements which have made it an emblem known and cherished worldwide. Not by chance, only who has a great past can face the challenges of the future.

Burnished headlights, new bumper inserts, one-of-a-kind alloy rims and new oblique tailpipes complete the new look. The Giulietta Veloce trim level - the sportiest of the line-up - is even bolder featuring new sports bumpers with Alfa Red profiles, new carbon look treatment headlights, glossy anthracite accents on mirror caps, handles and on the grille and fog light surrounds.

The exclusive sporty outfit corresponds to an exclusive interior ambience packed with premium quality accents in which all details are carefully picked: New Giulietta is the most developed expression of Italian style. On the inside, the sportiest Giulietta Veloce trim level has new leather and Alcantara sports seats with integrated head restraints embellished with contrasting red stitching and "Alfa Romeo" written on the head restraints. Standard are also the contoured leather steering wheel with contrasting red stitching and the carbon look finish dashboard surround and door panels, all complemented by specific matte grey inserts.

The sports characterisation is equally strong on the Giulietta and Giulietta Super versions. The first has grey and black fabric seats, a one-of-a-kind matte black dashboard, leather steering wheel and new black inserts on the tunnel and door pulls. Even bolder is the Super trim level with new Alfa Romeo trademark grey and black fabric "cannelloni" seats. Premium leather seats are available on both trim levels on demand.

New 1.6 JTDm 120 HP TCT engine

The 1.6 JTDm 120 HP debuting on New Giulietta is paired with Alfa TCT to combine the well-known, typical advantages of a turbo diesel engine with the comfort that only an automatic transmission can offer and the responsive shifting of a twin clutch, for top efficiency and driving pleasure.
Equipped in this way, the new car delivers excellent performance - top speed of 195 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 10.2 seconds - while being fuel-efficient and environment-friendly at the same time: 3.8 l/100 km and just 99 g/km of CO₂ on the combined cycle with the ECO version.

New addition to the second-generation MultiJet turbo diesel family, the 1.6 litre engine of New Giulietta delivers a top power of 120 HP at 3750 rpm and fits a small-size turbocharger capable of expressing top-in-class torque (320 Nm at 1750 rpm) for the best flexibility. A peculiarity of the 1.6 JTDm is certainly the third-generation Common Rail injection system which uses innovative injectors and balanced hydraulic servo valves to control very accurately the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber in a particularly quick and flexible injection sequence.

The Alfa TCT, now also with 1.6 JTDm 120 HP engine, can work in fully automatic or sequential mode. The up and down positions of the accurate and ergonomic gear stick are controlled manually by the driver. Shift paddles on the steering wheel can be chosen as an alternative. The Alfa DNA selector can also be used to select the dynamic performance of the car by operating on engine torque, brakes using the Pre-Fill function, TCT shifting logics, accelerator response, ESC control system, the Alfa Q2 electronic self-locking differential and the ASR traction control. The driver can activate three driving modes according to road conditions and driving style.

In brief, the engine line-up of New Giulietta now features four turbo petrol engines (1.4 Turbo Petrol 120 HP, 1.4 Turbo Multiair 150 HP, 1.4 Turbo Multiair 170 HP TCT and 1750 Turbo Petrol 240 HP TCT) and four turbo diesel engines: 1.6 JTDm 120 HP with manual transmission or TCT, 2.0 JTDm 150 HP and 2.0 JTDm 175 HP TCT. Finally, there is the bi-fuel (LPG and petrol) 1.4 TB 120 HP.

Uconnect system with the new LIVE services

The innovative Uconnect with 5" or 6.5" touchscreen is set proudly in the middle of the dashboard of New Giulietta. The multimedia device has Bluetooth connection for hands-free phone use and audio streaming, Aux-in connector, USB port, voice controls, SMS Reader and DAB device for listening to the radio with digital quality. Both the 6.5" and the 5" Uconnect systems are developed in collaboration with partners of excellence, such as Harman and Here Auto (the first) and Continental (the latter). Debuting on New Giulietta are the new Uconnect^TM LIVE services for staying connected while driving using a smartphone.

By downloading the free app from App Store of Google Play Store to a smartphone, Uconnect LIVE offers music streaming with Deezer and TuneIn, news with Reuters, connected navigation with TomTom LIVE and the opportunity to keep in touch with friends on Facebook Check-In and Twitter. Savings, eco-friendliness and control are also guaranteed everywhere with eco:Drive and my:Car.

Also debuting on New Giulietta is Alfa Performance, the exclusive service specifically created to enhance the driving experience. Using an array of digital gauges and instruments, drivers can control the main parameters of the car, measure their performance using special timers and see driving statistics on their smartphone, in addition to receiving real-time driving tips. The service is available on Uconnect 6.5" Radio Nav LIVE".

Other features on the 6.5" Uconnect LIVE include satellite navigation function with 3D bird's-eye view maps, sequential route instructions and One Step Voice Entry Destination.

Complete, rational line-up for easy choices

In Europe, the New Giulietta line-up features three trim levels (Giulietta, Giulietta Super and Giulietta Veloce), two new packs (Veloce and Lusso) and nine engine versions, including the new 1.6 JTDm 120 HP TCT turbo diesel, which will be particularly appreciated by business customers. The palette to choose from includes eleven body colours, comprising the new Alfa White and Lipari Grey, twelve different alloy rims (each size with one new pattern) and two more packs (Comfort and Visibility) to satisfy all customer needs.

The entry level Giulietta has a new front - with a new honeycomb grille and new bumper inserts - embellished by headlights with burnished treatment, satin handles and new oblique tailpipes. Inside, the new grey and black fabric seats with Alfa Romeo logo on the head restraints, new matte black dashboard insert with matte black finish and velvet mats. The refreshed style elements are accompanied by comprehensive standard equipment which includes leather steering wheel, climate control, 5" Uconnect with Uconnect Live services, Alfa DNA selector (with Q2 electronic differential and DST), innovative ESC (with ASR and Hill Holder), six airbags and front and rear electric windows. Giulietta customers can pick from the following engine line-up: 1.4 Turbo Petrol 120 HP, 1.4 Turbo Petrol 150 HP, 1.4 Turbo Petrol 170 HP TCT, 1.6 JTDm 120 HP with manual gearbox or TCT, 2.0 JTDm 150 HP and bi-fuel (LPG and petrol) 1.4 TB 120 HP.

Available on all engine versions (except for the 1750 Turbo Petrol 240 HP TCT), the Giulietta Super trim level adds an array of very interesting features to the entry level, such as two-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and front armrest. From the appearance point of view, it comes with 16" alloy rims, fog lights, chrome-plated details and the one-of-a-kind grey and black fabric seats with the Alfa Romeo logo on the head restraints. They can also choose to customise their New Giulietta Super further by picking the Lusso or Veloce packs to enhance the elegant or sports attitude of the car. The Lusso pack includes height-adjustable leather seats, front and rear armrests, aluminium kick plate and 6.5" Uconnect Radio Nav. The Veloce pack, instead, includes all the aesthetic contents of the Giulietta Veloce described below.

Giulietta Veloce - the best expression of the sports character of New Giulietta - completes the line-up and is packed with standard equipment and specific elements for an even bolder look and technical-racing features for a no-compromise stance on the road. These include sports suspensions with specific set-up, side skirts, sports bumpers with exclusive red Alfa profile, 17'' alloy rims, oversized Brembo brake system with red callipers and four master cylinders and oversized tailpipes. Other interesting features include the exclusive "Veloce" badge, tinted windows, headlights with carbon look treatment, glossy anthracite finish on mirror caps, handles, grille and fog light surrounds. On the inside, the sports vocation of the New Giulietta Veloce is reasserted by new leather and Alcantara seats with contrasting stitching and by the words "Alfa Romeo" written across the integrated head restraints, the aluminium pedals, the matte grey moulding, the contoured sports steering wheel with red stitching and the carbon look effect dashboard surrounds and door panels. As can be expected, this high-performance version of New Giulietta comes exclusively with the powerful 1750 Turbo Petrol with direct injection and aluminium crankcase which delivers 240 HP at 5750 rpm.

FCA takes part in the 100th edition of the legendary "Targa Florio"

The Targa Florio was an open road endurance automobile race held in the mountains of Sicily near Palermo. Founded in 1906, it was the oldest sports car racing event, part of the World Sportscar Championship between 1955 and 1973. While the first races consisted of a whole tour of the island, the track length in the race's last decades was limited to the 72 kilometres (45 mi) of the Circuito Piccolo delle Madonie, which was lapped 11 times.

After 1973, it was a national sports car event until it was discontinued in 1977 due to safety concerns. It has since been run as a rallying event, and is part of the Italian Rally Championship.
The race was created in 1906 by the wealthy pioneer race driver and automobile enthusiast, Vincenzo Florio, who had started theCoppa Florio race in Brescia, Lombardy in 1900.
One of the toughest competitions in Europe, the first Targa Florio covered 3 laps equalling 277 miles (446 km) through multiple hairpin curves on treacherous mountain roads, at heights where severe changes in climate frequently occurred. Alessandro Cagno won the inaugural 1906 race in nine hours, averaging 30 miles per hour (50 km/h).
By the mid-1920s, the Targa Florio had become one of Europe's most important races, as neither the 24 Hours of Le Mans nor the Mille Miglia had been established yet. Grand Prix races were still isolated events, not a series like today's F1.
The wins of Mercedes (not yet merged with Benz) in the 1920s made a big impression in Germany, especially that of German Christian Werner in 1924, as he was the first non-Italian winner since 1920. Rudolf Caracciola repeated a similar upset win at the Mille Miglia a couple of years later. In 1926, Eliska Junkova, one of the great female drivers in Grand Prix motor racing history, became the first woman to ever compete in the race.
In 1953, the FIA World Sportscar Championship was introduced. The Targa became part of it in 1955, when Mercedes had to win 1-2 with the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR in order to beat Ferrari for the title. They had missed the first two of the 6 events, Buenos Aires and the 12 Hours of Sebring, where Ferrari, Jaguar, Maserati and Porsche scored. Mercedes appeared at and won in the Mille Miglia, then pulled out of Le Mans as a sign of respect for the victims of the 1955 Le Mans disaster, but won the Tourist Trophy at Dundrod. Stirling Moss/Peter Collins and Juan Manuel Fangio/Karl Kling finished minutes ahead of the best Ferrari and secured the title.
Several versions of the track were used. It started with a single lap of a 148 km (92 mi) circuit from 1906-1911 and 1931. From 1912 to 1914 a tour around the perimeter of Sicily was used, with a single lap of 975 kilometres (606 mi), lengthened to 1,080 kilometres (670 mi) from 1948 to 1950. The 148 km "Grande" circuit was then shortened twice, the first time to 108 km (67 mi), the version used from 1919-1930, and then to the 72 km (45 mi) circuit used from 1932 to 1936 and 1951 to 1977. From 1951-1958, the long coastal island tour variant was used for a separate event called the Giro di Sicilia (Lap of Sicily).
The start and finish took place at Cerda. The counter-clockwise lap lead from Caltavuturo and Collesano from an altitude over 600 metres (1,970 ft) down to sea level, where the cars raced from Campofelice di Roccella on the Buonfornello straight along the coast, a straight over 6 km (3.7 mi) longer than the Mulsanne Straight at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans. The longest version of the circuit went south through Caltavuturo (whereas the shortest version of the open-road circuit went east just before entry into Caltavuturo, through a mountainous section directly to Collesano) through an extended route through elevation changes, and swept through the nearby towns of Castellana and Sottana, twisting around mountains up to the town of Castelbuono and rejoined the most recent version of the track at Collesano. The second version of the track also went south through Caltavuturo and took a shortcut starting right before Castellana to Collesano via the town of Polizzi Generosa. There was a closed circuit called Favorita Park used from 1937-1940.
The challenge of the Targa was unprecedented in its difficulty and the driving experience of any of the course variants was unlike any other circuit in the world other than perhaps that of the Nurburgring in Germany. The original Grande 148 km (92 mi) circuit had in the realm of 2,000 corners per lap, the 108 km (67 mi) Medio had about 1,300-1,400 corners per lap and the final iteration of the course, the 72 km (45 mi) Piccolo circuit had about 800-900 corners per lap. To put that in perspective, most purpose built circuits have between 12 and 18 corners, and the longest purpose built circuit in the world, the 13-mile Nurburgring, has about 180 corners. So learning any of the Targa Florio courses was extremely difficult and required, like most long circuits, at least 60 laps to learn the course- and unlike the purpose-built Nurburgring, the course had to be learned properly in public traffic, and one lap would take about an hour to do in a road car- if there was little to no traffic.
Lap speeds 
Like a rally event (and the Isle of Man TT), the race cars were started one by one every 15 seconds for a time trial, as a start from a full grid was not possible on the tight and twisty roads.
Although the public road circuit used for the Targa was extremely challenging- it was a very different kind of circuit and race from any other race on the sportscar calendar. All of the circuit variations of the Targa had so many corners that lap speeds at the Targa never went higher than 80 mph (128 km/h). Helmut Marko set the lap record in 1972 in an Alfa Romeo 33TT3 at 33 min 41 s at an average of 128.253 km/h (79.693 mph) during an epic charge where he made up 2 minutes on Arturo Merzario and his Ferrari 312PB. The fastest ever was Leo Kinnunen in 1970, lapping in the Porsche 908/3 at 128.571 km/h (79.890 mph) or 33 min 36 seconds flat.
Due to the track's length, drivers practised in the week before the race in public traffic, often with their race cars fitted with license plates. Porsche factory drivers even had to watch onboard videos, a sickening experience for some. The lap record for the 146 km "Grande" circuit was 2 hours 3 min 54.8 seconds set by Achille Varzi in a Bugatti Type 51 at the 1931 race at an average speed of 70.7 km/h (43.931 mph). The lap record for the 108 km "Medio" circuit was 1 hour 21 min 21.6 seconds set by Varzi in an Alfa Romeo P2 at an average speed of 79.642 km/h (49.487 mph) at the 1930 race. The fastest completion around the short version of the island tour was done by Giovanni "Ernesto" Ceirano in a SCAT at the 1914 race, completed in 16 hours, 51 minutes and 31.6 seconds from May 24–25, 1914. The fastest completion of the long version of the island tour was by Mario and Franco Bornigia in an Alfa Romeo 8C 2500, completed in 12 hours, 26 minutes and 33 seconds flat at the 1950 race at an average speed of 86.794 km/h (53.931 mph).
1970s, Safety and demise 
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, race cars with up to 600 hp (450 kW) such as Nino Vaccarella's Ferrari 512S raced through small mountain villages while spectators sat or stood right next to, or even on, the road. Porsche, on the other hand, did not race its big Porsche 917, but rather the nimble Porsche 908/03 Spyders.
Due to safety concerns, especially by Helmut Marko, who called the race "totally insane", the last Targa Florio as a World Sportscar Championship race was run in 1973; where during this event it became impossible to retain its international status after a number of horrendous and 2 fatal accidents at the event; one which privateer Charles Blyth crashed his Lancia Fulvia HF into a trailer at the end of the Buonfornello straight and was killed; and another where an Italian driver crashed his Alpine-Renault into a group of spectators, killing one. There were several other accidents during practice for the 1973 event in which a total of seven spectators sustained injuries. In that year, even a Porsche 911 won as the prototypes such as Jacky Ickx's Ferrari suffered crashes or other troubles. Another reason for the Targa's international demise was because international automotive governing body, the FIA, mandated safety walls on all circuits that were going to hold FIA-mandated events; and the 44-mile length of combined public roads made this simply impossible and totally impractical, especially from a financial standpoint. The Targa was continued as a national event for some years, before a crash in 1977 which killed 2 spectators and seriously injured 5 others (including the driver) sealed its fate. The 1977 race was forcibly taken over by local police and was stopped on the 4th lap, and it also saw 2 other drivers having serious accidents; one of them was critically injured, but survived.
Although the Targa Florio was a rally-type race that took place on closed-off Sicilian public mountain roads with (aside from straw bales and weak guardrails at some of the turns, the latter were installed by the island's government) practically no safety features, only 9 people- including spectators- died at the event over the 71 year and 61 race history using a total of 6 circuit configurations. This amount is relatively small compared to other open road races, like the Mille Miglia, where over a period of 30 years and 24 races, 56 people lost their lives and the Carrera Panamericana, where over a period of 5 years and 5 races, 25 people were killed. This is probably due to the fact that the mountain roads were extremely twisty and average speeds never reached even 80 mph even up to the final years of the race's history, even with the very long straight at the northernmost of the track.

Alfa Romeo Giulia earns 5-star Euro NCAP rating

The Alfa Romeo Giulia has earned the prestigious 5-star rating from Euro NCAP, with a score of 98% for the adult occupant protection of all percentiles: the highest score ever achieved by any car, even with the introduction of a more stringent rating system in 2015.

Alfa Romeo's new sports sedan has achieved this outstanding result on the basis of two key elements: firstly, the adoption of a wide range of innovative safety systems, and secondly, the efficiency of a bodyshell that's light and rigid in equal measure, with extensive use of ultra-lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre, aluminium and aluminium composite.

An important award that confirms  the special attention that Alfa Romeo pays to the safety of all road users.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia embodies uncompromising design and construction, set to become a new paradigm for the brand and a new benchmark for the entire segment, including on the safety front.
In keeping with Alfa Romeo tradition, the Giulia features a host of innovative technical solutions designed to deliver first-class dynamic qualities that also translate into top levels of safety.
The most sophisticated equipment includes the Integrated Brake System (IBS), which significantly reduces braking distance (100 km/h to 0 in 38 m for the Giulia and 32 m for the Quadrifoglio version), the advanced suspension set-up with exclusive AlfaLink technology, and the most direct steering in class: combined, these features deliver outstanding road-holding and easy, intuitive control of the vehicle in every situation.

And lastly, when it comes to driver assistance systems, the new Giulia represents the latest state of the art. For example standard equipment on the entire Giulia range includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) with pedestrian detection. Using a radar sensor and a camera built into the windscreen, these systems detect the presence of any obstacles or vehicles on the car's trajectory and warn the driver of the risk of imminent collision. If the driver fails to react in time, the system automatically applies the brakes to avoid an impact or reduce its severity. Thanks to the pedestrian recognition function, the AEB is also capable of stopping the car autonomously at speeds of up to 60 km/h, by interpreting the information from the radar and camera. Standard equipment across the Giulia range also includes Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which detects unintentional lane changes, and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path Detection as optional, which uses sensors to monitor the area around the car and assist the driver when overtaking, changing lane or exiting car parks by monitoring any cars that may be approaching.

The new Alfa Romeo Giulia

The model in brief

Today, the complete range of the new Giulia, Alfa Romeo's most eagerly awaited model in 2016, will be presented to the international press at the Centro Sperimentale di Balocco (Vercelli). Today's event thus completes the car's début, following its starring role at the Alfa Romeo Historical Museum in Arese with the launch of the Quadrifoglio version - the supreme expression of the "La meccanica delle emozioni" concept - and the subsequent launch of the entire range at the Geneva International Motor Show 2016.

The new Giulia can already be ordered from showrooms across Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands. The range includes three trim levels (Giulia, Super and Quadrifoglio) and five new engine versions: 2.2-litre Diesel with 150 HP and 180 HP combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 8-speed automatic transmission; 510 HP 2.9-litre V6 Biturbo petrol engine combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The new Giulia features rear-wheel drive: this is a design choice that guarantees superior performance levels, loads of fun and a thrilling drive, and it is also a tribute to the most authentic traditions of the legendary Alfa Romeo.

Further particularities of the new Giulia include the outstanding weight distribution across the two axles, the suspension system featuring exclusive AlfaLink technology and the most direct steering in its segment. In addition, the new Alfa Romeo combines extraordinary engine performance and ample use of ultralight materials, like carbon fibre, aluminium, aluminium composite and plastic, to obtain the best weight-to-power ratio (less than 3 in the Quadrifoglio version).

In keeping with Alfa Romeo traditions, the new Giulia offers unique technical solutions. The more sophisticated features include the Integrated Brake System (IBS) for considerably reducing braking distance - from 100 km/h to 0 in 38.5 m for the Giulia and in 32 m for the Quadrifoglio - and active suspension for exceptional comfort. Exclusive to the Quadrifoglio version, the Torque Vectoring technology affords outstanding torque distribution between the two wheels on the rear axle, and the Alfa^TM Active Aero Splitter actively manages downforce at high speed.

In terms of style, the new Giulia stands out for it distinctive Italian design, which is expressed through an impeccable sense of proportions, based on the technical architecture, sophisticated simplicity and quality surfaces, both inside and out. On the exterior, the new Giulia is statuesque and recalls a big cat just about to pounce, and the clean and essential interior is designed to envelop the driver, focusing on the latter entirely. 

Alfa Romeo Rules at Mille Miglia 2016

• Three exquisite Alfa Romeo models took the first five places in the most famous road race of all.
• One was the legendary 1930 6C 1750 Gran Sport that won the 1930 edition with Tazio Nuvolari and Giovanni Battista Guidotti.
• The other two official Alfa Romeo cars also came from the Museum in Arese: the 1954 1900 Sport Spider and the 1956 1900 Super Sprint.
• Competing were also a 1939 Lancia Ardea, with actress Kasia Smutniak aboard, and two Fiat spiders: the 508 Balilla Coppa d'Oro (1934) and the 1100 TV Trasformabile (1955).
• These rare cars were accompanied by the most recent current models: from the Alfa Romeo Giulia to the New Giulietta, the special Lancia Ypsilon Mya series and the new Fiat 124 Spider.

The 34th re-enactment of the Freccia Rossa, "the most beautiful travelling museum in the world" as it was aptly called by Enzo Ferrari, ended yesterday on the Finish Line of Viale Venezia in Brescia. Undisputed stars of the event were the classic Alfa Romeos: a 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS Zagato was followed by a 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Gran Sport, which came third, while another 6C 1750 Gran Sport Zagato, this one from 1930 and belonging to the Alfa Romeo Museum in Arese, came fifth.

It was a triumph for the 6C 1750 Gran Sport that won the 1930 edition of the race with Tazio Nuvolari and Giovanni Battista Guidotti as crew. That of 1930 was the race of the legendary "overtaking in the dark" episode when Nuvolari achieved the unprecedented feat of averaging 100 km/h over the entire course and was one of Alfa Romeo's eleven wins in the years from 1927 to 1957 of the Mille Miglia as a proper race: a record that was to remain undefeated.

Mille Miglia is a race - of which Alfa Romeo is "Automotive Sponsor" - with a vintage flair that still thrills drivers and enthusiasts worldwide. The legendary course was brilliantly completed by other invaluable cars picked by FCA Heritage, the new organisation that coordinates all the activities of the corporation on the classic car scene, from their collection. The line-up featured the other two official Alfa Romeo cars: the 1954 1900 Sport Spider and the 1956 1900 Super Sprint, both from the revamped Alfa Romeo Museum, dubbed "La macchina del tempo" (www.museoalfaromeo.com).

The finish line was also crossed by two exquisite vintage Fiat spiders - a 1934 508S, known as "Balilla Coppa d'Oro", and the 1955 1100 TV Trasformabile - and a precious 1939 Lancia Ardea, first series saloon, with the famous actress Kasia Smutniak onboard.

These rare vehicles were accompanied by the latest new FCA models to reassert the eternal link between the icons of the past and the vehicles currently produced by the Group. In particular, the Alfa Romeo 4C was given the prestigious task of opening the parade, while a fleet of New Giulietta was made available to the organisers of the event. Finally, staring on the roads of Mille Miglia 2016 were also the new Alfa Romeo Giulia, the one-of-a-kind Lancia Ypsilon Mya special series and the fascinating Fiat 124 Spider.

New MITO 2016 Alfa Romeo

The New Mito will be débuting at the Geneva Motor Show. The model is reasserting itself in many ways, while maintaining its position as small sports car capable of winning over customers attracted by its Italian style and technical excellence offering maximum driving satisfaction in total safety.

Sold across Europe from the second half of the year and targeting a young, dynamic clientele, the New Mito revamped its looks by presenting an unprecedented grille and a strong family resemblance to the captivating Giulia. Additionally, after débuting on the Giulia, the refreshed brand logo and new name lettering are affixed to the compact Alfa Romeo for the first time. 

An additional affinity with the Giulia model is range rationalisation. The line-up now includes three trim levels (Mito, Super and Veloce) and two specific packs (Veloce and Lusso). 

Nine body colours, including the brand-new pastel white, and no fewer than eight different alloy wheels (including three new 16”, 17” and 18” patterns),complete a line-up that will allow customers to pick the version of the New Mito most suited to their inclinations and needs. Additionally, depending on the trim levels and on the country of purchase, specific packs are available (Style, Comfort and Visibility) that group together the most popular equipment, for significant savings.

There are news in terms of engine versions too, with the unprecedented 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet which stands out for its brilliant temperament, high fuel economy and low emissions. All this without compromising on performance: 180 km/h top speed and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds. The extensive line-up is thus supplemented, already featuring the 78 HP 1.4-litre engine, the 140 HP or 170 HP 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo petrol engines (both with TCT automatic transmission), the 105 HP 0.9-litre Turbo TwinAir and the 120 HP 1.4-litre LPG Turbo.

To accommodate the needs of customers who increasingly crave for new technology-friendly cars and connectivity with social channels, the New Mito comes with UConnect with 5" touchscreen complete with Bluetooth interface, Aux-in connector, USB port and voice controls. A version adding the innovative digital radio (DAB) and the new Uconnect Live services for keeping in touch with multiple applications using a smartphone is also available. Specifically, after downloading the Uconnect LIVE application from Apple Store or Google Play Store, customers of the New Mito can directly access via the car's touchscreen display "TuneIn" that offers access to over 100,000 internet radio stations worldwide; "Deezer", with a catalogue of Internet Music consisting of more than 35 million tracks; Reuters, so you can keep up to date on world news; Facebook and Twitter so you can stay in touch with your friends. In addition, the LIVE suite allows the driver to experience TomTom connected navigation that includes the widest range of traffic information in the world, with over 100 million kilometres of traffic measurements collected every day. Finally, Uconnect LIVE enables you to access my:Car, thanks to the real time warnings, which provides reminders on maintenance procedures and access to an interactive manual, all features that allow the driver to maintain their car in the best way possible. In addition, with Efficient Drive, the driver receives tips about their driving style and, thanks to the real-time feedback received, can thus slash fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. 

The first Mito trim level stands out for the new nose embellished by headlights with burnished surrounds, satin door handles, 16” wheels and body colour mirror caps. Inside, the dark sports ambience is reasserted by the new black fabric seats, sporting the Alfa Romeo badge on the head restraints, and the steering wheel with the refreshed Alfa Romeo symbol in the centre. The refreshed style elements are accompanied by comprehensive standard equipment which includes manual climate control, 7 airbags, Alfa DNA selector (with Q2 electronic differential and DST) and the ESC system (with ASR and Hill Holder). 

The Super trim level is packed with even more contents, and in addition to the already generous standard equipment supplied with the first trim levels, it includes: 16” alloy wheels, satin mirror caps, cruise control, Uconnect infotainment system with 5" touchscreen and new Anthracite grey fabric and black eco-leather seats with matching stitching with the Alfa Romeo logo printed on the front head restraints. Upon request, customers can equip their Mito Super with automatic climate control and fine leather seat upholstery – in black, tobacco and red – with the Alfa Romeo logo on the side. In addition, the Veloce and Lusso packs are also available, to enhance the sports or elegant attitude of the New Mito Super. 

The New Mito line-up is completed with the Veloce trim level which features style elements for an even bolder look and technical-racing features for a no-compromise stance on the road. These include sports suspensions with sports set-up, sports rear bumper, double exhaust pipe, 17'' alloy wheels and oversized Brembo brake system. Other interesting features include the dedicated external badge, tinted rear windows, new headlights with carbon look and glossy black finish on mirror caps, handles, headlight surrounds and grille finish. On the inside, the sports vocation of the New Mito Veloce is reasserted by the specific contoured steering wheel and the aluminium cover on the pedals and heel pad. The standard equipment is completed with the new sports seats in fabric and Alcantara upholstery, with contrasting red stitching, and the Alfa Romeo logo sewn onto the head restraints. In addition, Sabelt sports seats in Alcantara, with carbon shell, are available, or the more elegant black and red leather seats, upon request. 

Whatever the chosen version, the New Mito makes the dream of driving an Alfa Romeo accessible to all, in a compendium of technology and performance, capable of turning any journey into a thrilling driving experience. With the new model, the Alfa Romeo brand directly addresses a younger clientele, the so-called “Millennials”, who increasingly feel the need to be independent and who quickly change direction. The Millennials want to enjoy the moment without any illusion that the future could really be controlled. The New Mito was conceived for them – this car is always connected, environmentally-friendly and truly metropolitan in style.

AVTOVAZ names new Board members, Chairman and Vice Chairman

• Sergey Skvortsov is elected Chairman of the Board
• Denis Le Vot is elected  Vice Chairman of the Board
• Midterm plan presented to the Board

TOGLIATTI, Russia (June 23, 2016) -- AVTOVAZ elected new board members Thursday at its annual general shareholder meeting.
The following were elected to the Board of the Directors for the first time:

• Vladimir Avetisyan, Deputy Chairman of the Board of ROSNANO MC
• Denis Le Vot, Renault Group Senior Vice President, Chairman of Eurasia Region
• Nicolas Maure, President of AVTOVAZ
• Stefan Mueller, Renault Group Executive Vice President and Chief Performance Officer
• Eduard Vaino, Vice President for Government and Shareholder Relations of AVTOVAZ

The following directors continue to serve on the Board of Directors of AVTOVAZ:

• Thierry Bolloré, Groupe Renault Executive Vice President, Chief Competitive Officer
• Igor Zavyalov, Rostec Deputy General Director
• Sergey Zaitsev, AVTOVAZ Trade Union Committee Chairman
• Sergey Kogogin, KAMAZ General Director
• Trevor Mann, Nissan, Chief Performance Officer
• Jérémie Papin, Groupe Renault Vice President for Strategy and Business Development
• Joseph Peter, Nissan, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
• Andrey Sapelin, VNESHEKONOMBANK First Deputy Chairman
• Dominique Thormann, Special Advisor Alliance Renault-Nissan

At the board meeting following the annual shareholder meeting, Sergey Skvortsov, Deputy General Director of Rostec, was elected as Chairman of the Board of AVTOVAZ. Denis Le Vot was elected as Vice Chairman.
Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and Sergey Chemezov, Rostec’s CEO, will continue to play an active role in the company’s strategy through Alliance Rostec Auto BV, the holding company that is the majority stakeholder of AVTOVAZ.
The Renault-Nissan Alliance has a majority stake in Alliance Rostec Auto BV. Vehicles carrying the Renault, Nissan, Datsun and Lada brands are built in Togliatti and at other plants throughout Russia.
The AVTOVAZ Board of Directors reviewed the company’s midterm plan, which aims to achieve a 20 percent share in Russia’s automotive market, to increase exports and drive all necessary actions for the company’s financial recovery.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100

Rolls-Royce epitomises automotive luxury in a way that no other brand can. Founded in 1904, its products rose to pre-eminence around the world in a matter of years – in keeping with Sir Henry Royce’s motto: “Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it doesn’t exist, design it.”

Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design: “In celebration of this pioneering spirit, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 has been designed as the ultimate expression of the future of super-luxury mobility. It is an enlightening vision of the fascinating possibilities of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the future.”

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is the first purely visionary vehicle in the 112-year history of the marque.

In creating it, the team focused on the following questions:

• What is the future of luxury?
• How might the exclusive character of a Rolls-Royce translate into the future?
• How will the demands of the Rolls-Royce clientele change? And how might Rolls-Royce even exceed their expectations in its constant quest for perfection?
• Could other traditional Rolls-Royce characteristics – such as precise craftsmanship, a pioneering spirit and a love for perfection – combined with future technologies and trends set new standards for luxury in decades to come?
• How can we ensure a journey in a Rolls-Royce remains as unique an experience in the future as it is today?

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars already realises the most diverse customer wishes and offers virtually unlimited scope for personalising its vehicles. Over the years and decades ahead, however, the opportunities will become even more extensive, and customers will be able to commission their personal Rolls-Royce into a genuine one-off piece. In terms of technology, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is based on an advanced lightweight platform equipped with a high-performance electric drive. From the wheelbase to the design of the body, its various specifications and equipment can be tailored specifically to suit the needs of the individual customer.

The Rolls-Royce design team expects that further progress in composite materials and technologies will have a decisive influence on how production can be customised in the future. Advances will also unlock new creative possibilities for the brand to meet the discerning wishes of its customers and achieve its goal of producing the bespoke automotive equivalent of haute couture.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 incorporates just some of the design options that will be possible in the future.

It focuses on the following key aspects of a new dimension of automotive luxury:

• The “Personal Vision”: One of a limitless number of possible personal visions of a Rolls-Royce of the future
• The “Grand Sanctuary”: The vehicle interior as a private retreat
• The “Effortless Journey”: Guided by “Eleanor”, the passenger’s virtual assistant.
• The “Grand Arrival”: Stepping out at your destination in ultimate elegance.

The Personal Vision: One of a limitless number of possible personal visions of a Rolls-Royce of the future.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is but one of a limitless number of possible personal visions of a Rolls-Royce of the future. Indeed, in an evolution of the Rolls-Royce experience of today, the customer’s taste will shape exactly how his or her Rolls-Royce will look and how it will be configured.

In the spirit of the great coachbuilt cars of the past, Rolls-Royce will create the chassis of the future, hand-built from the most advanced materials and powered by a zero emissions powertrain. Innovative manufacturing technologies will enable customers to involve themselves in the style and proportion of their personal Rolls-Royce vision. They will be able to commission their very own cars shaped by Rolls-Royce designers to their personal tastes – unique bespoke masterpieces curated as a fingerprint of their owner.

The Grand Sanctuary – The vehicle interior as a private retreat.

In a Rolls-Royce, the well-being and desires of the occupants are all-important. For this reason, the design of the interior is the central starting point: it is intended as a space in which passengers can enjoy their very own style of luxury. The vehicle interior becomes a personal retreat.

In creating the interior, the designers opted for a clear-cut hierarchy of lines, as well as sustainable, authentic materials and subtle lighting. These combine to create a peaceful oasis, the ideal atmosphere in which to relax.

With this approach, the designers were able to create an inviting, purist space in which the intrinsic beauty of the materials shines through. The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, for instance, incorporates warm tone Macassar wood, a carpet of hand-twisted silk on the floor and further extraordinarily soft silk on the upholstery.

In the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 a panorama window of generous proportions provides outstanding visibility. Designed to “waft” along fully autonomously, the driver’s seat, steering wheel and instruments are superfluous in this model; what remains is a completely new sense of space. Cocooned in their own private haven, passengers have just a central analogue timepiece below the panorama window as a reminder that time not lost is the highest form of luxury.

The Effortless Journey: Guided by Eleanor, the passenger’s virtual assistant.

In creating the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the designers also sought to keep the presence of technologies as subdued as possible while at the same time ensuring full connectivity. The vehicle is controlled by a virtual intelligence which fulfils the passenger’s every need. This virtual assistant is embodied in a digital representation of the Spirit of Ecstasy, which appears on the full-width transparent OLED display. It is named after Eleanor Thornton, the model who inspired sculptor Charles Robert Sykes’ iconic Rolls-Royce bonnet ornament. The more time Eleanor spends on the road with a passenger, the more she learns about their interests and needs – their favourite restaurants, tastes in art and favourite routes, for instance – and about the preferences and desires of all the other vehicle occupants as well, of course. Using speech interaction, the passengers can call upon her services to tailor their journey as desired.

The Grand Arrival – Stepping out at your destination in ultimate elegance.

From the outside, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is a vision of timeless aesthetics. Measuring 5.9 m in length, its silhouette radiates powerful elegance. At the same time, its coupé-style forms and the free-standing wheel arches on either side of the Pantheon radiator grille lend dynamism and lightness to its outward appearance.

The elegance and lightness of the body is further underscored by the paintwork “Crystal Water” and the Spirit of Ecstasy, made from hand-cut lead crystal and illuminated from inside.

Thanks to its impressive exterior design, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 will attract attention wherever it arrives. Its charismatic presence is further enhanced by the way the passengers alight: in a generous gesture, the roof and coach door open to reveal the interior of the vehicle. Passengers simply stand up and gracefully step out. The spectacle is additionally underscored by light projections, which create a “red carpet” showing the way out and turn every arrival into a Grand Arrival.

Should the need arise, two umbrellas integrated into the doors are available to protect passengers from the elements. Rolls-Royce bespoke luggage can be stowed in the front of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, where there is ample storage space. An intelligent mechanism opens a hatch in the side of the car and presents the luggage to the waiting hands of the porter.

Giles Taylor, Design Director Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: “With the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 we were very mindful not to dwell on the past. We wanted to be as innovative as possible and at the same time transcend the design history of the marque.”

MINI VISION NEXT 100: “Every MINI is my MINI”.

Today’s MINI is the perfect premium compact car for the modern city. Digitalisation and connectivity are increasingly changing the way we get around on a daily basis – and this change is taking place most rapidly and noticeably in urban areas. The MINI VISION NEXT 100 is MINI’s answer to several key questions on urban mobility over the years ahead. In the cities of the future, will there be space for a car which engages at an emotional level? What will become of the “clever use of space” principle that underpins MINI? And how can MINI respond to a world becoming ever more digitalised and interconnected?

The core philosophy behind the MINI VISION NEXT 100 is the thoughtful use of the planet’s resources in providing personal mobility. The motto “Every MINI is my MINI” describes a particular take on car-sharing. In the future, fans of the brand will be able to call on a MINI tailored to their personal requirements where ever they are, day or night. The MINI of the future will be available 24/7, able to pick its driver up from their desired location in a fully automated way and will adapt itself to the driver’s individual tastes, interests and preferences. At the heart of this concept is fully connected digital intelligence.

Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design, describes MINI’s vision for the future: “MINI looks to offer smart and bespoke mobility in cities that engages all the senses. And in the future, you might not actually have to own a vehicle to enjoy the benefits.”

Clever approaches to future mobility with MINI:

• “Digitally Mine” – where every MINI becomes my MINI
• The “Cooperizer”: a link between the driver and digital intelligence
• “Urban go-kart”: small, clever, nimble. The hallmark driving fun of a MINI will remain intact in the years ahead
• Novel use of sustainable materials in the interior
• Experience sharing – users become part of a MINI community

“Digitally mine” – where every MINI becomes my MINI.

In the future, as now, people will be attracted in great numbers to MINI cars and the attitude to life associated with them. But it may not actually be necessary to own a MINI to be part of the action. The design team’s challenge: how could a MINI be widely and instantly adaptable – making the driver feel it is their car, tailored precisely to their own taste – available whenever and wherever they need it?

The MINI VISION NEXT 100 is wrapped in a discreet, silver skin. The MINI designers refer to it as a “blank canvas”. How that canvas is used varies according to the individual user, their mood and the situations they encounter. Even the colour of the roof and the lighting mood in the interior respond in kind. The MINI uses projections adapted to the driver in terms of colour, graphics and content to create a personalised experience and customised package of on-board information.

The Cooperizer forms a connection between the driver and digital intelligence.

The Cooperizer is the name the MINI VISION NEXT 100 gives to the centrally-positioned circular instrument that has become such a signature feature of MINI cockpits. In the MINI VISION NEXT 100 it illuminates like a kaleidoscope. The colours and patterns it generates symbolise the car’s multi-faceted digital intelligence, which allows it to select a personalised setting for each driver, encompassing entertainment, communications and autonomous-driving options. On the move, the driver can influence the Cooperizer’s decision-making, as the rotary controls allow adjustments to the interior ambience and driving mode. So the car can be adapted to give a perfectly personalised driving experience, whether driven conventionally or autonomously. Pressing the “Inspire Me” button brings another special Cooperizer trick into play. Here, the MINI checks downloaded user data to select information of interest to the driver and provide them with potential sources of inspiration. For example, the MINI VISION NEXT 100 might suggest the MINI set-up configured for an artist the driver admires and whose exhibition they have recently visited. Or it could recommend a challenging, twisting route to the outskirts of town and switch to John Cooper Works performance mode.

The urban go-kart – small, clever, nimble. MINI will continue to offer the driving fun we know and love in the future.

In the future, driving in a MINI must still be fun, to the extent that drivers will prefer to drive themselves – as often as possible. The mechanical experience of speed and the feeling of nipping swiftly through twists and turns are part of what makes a MINI a MINI. But it doesn’t stop there. In a future world of self-driving cars, this side of motoring may have an even more significant, even more special role. Various aspects of the MINI VISION NEXT 100 will take the go-kart feeling to another new level. Cleared of many controls and screens, the interior has a pure, uncluttered look. And the glass front end opens up a dynamic view of the road. Here, augmented reality displays show the route or ideal driving line, heightening the driving sensation.

In addition to these dynamic elements, dreaming up clever details and creating maximum interior space within the smallest possible footprint are other MINI essentials. The efficiently-packaged, zero-emission drive system and the reduced need for crash zones in the future enable a compactness of body not so far removed from the first MINI back in 1959. The generous feeling of cabin space is enhanced by a full-width bench seat and pedals that slide with the steering wheel to adjust their position. The steering wheel is always there, but the option remains, to ask the car to drive itself; perhaps there are things you’d rather do during a journey when the driving environment is tedious.

Autonomous driving plays an important role in the MINI VISION NEXT 100, allowing it to travel occupant-free to a charging station, cleaning service, parking space or the next user. To switch from driving themselves to autonomous driving, the driver simply moves the steering wheel into the central area between themselves and the front passenger. In the process, those on board enjoy greater freedom of movement and getting in and out of the car in busy city centres is that much easier. The single-section bench seat and a full-width footwell, uninterrupted by a centre console, also help this, allowing passengers to gain rapid access from both sides of the car – without having to decide in advance where they would prefer to sit. When dynamic driving is the order of the day, active elements within the seat provide lateral support for the driver and front passenger. Park the car in a tight spot, and the doors automatically open as wide as possible within the restricted confines.

Innovative use of sustainable materials.

Making responsible use of resources is key in the selection of materials for the MINI VISION NEXT 100. These materials should retain their high level of perceived quality over many years, age stylishly and offer a special tactile experience. As digitisation increases, analogue qualities and experiences will become more important. With the more intensive use of a shared car, interiors will need to be much more hard wearing. In addition to the modern materials made from recycled plastic and aluminium in the floor area, roof lining and side panel trim, for example, the MINI interior designers used materials less commonly found in car cabins, such as brass, basalt and cellulose. The wraparound carrier and information strip, with its mount for the sliding steering wheel, and the Cooperizer with its thin brass structure are good examples here.

The designers made the storage net behind the steering wheel from lightweight basalt, while the lower section of the seat is trimmed in a recycled cellulose material similar to paper. This novel use of materials included deliberately allowing a patina to develop through use and ensuring they retain along-lasting and sophisticated appearance. When it comes to the natural look and feel of surfaces, the designers have embraced the irregularities inherent in the chosen materials and processing methods. That also applies to the seat covers in knitted Alcantara – a robust, somewhat iridescent material. The designers have steered clear of traditional interior materials like wood and leather altogether. Another example of analogue design in the MINI Vision Vehicle can be found in the wheels, whose rotation generates an “Ombro Cinema” effect: This involves the outer surface of the wheel not moving and only a disc behind it turning with the tyre. The even movement of a shimmering graphic – again brass-coloured – can be observed through openings in the outside of the wheel. The idea is for each wheel to look like a piece of a mechanical jewellery.

Experience sharing – the user becomes part of a MINI community.

Sharing cars, homes and goods is ever-more common, as digitalisation, connectivity and artificial intelligence make processes simpler and more automated. The MINI VISION NEXT 100 can bring together a community of likeminded people, with a shared MINI lifestyle in common. Everybody benefits from everybody. And mobility opens up inspirational experiences yet stands by its sustainable approach and prudent use of resources.

For example, a MINI user in the future is interested in a certain type of art and a friend gets hold of some last-minute tickets to a preview for an exhibition they might like. The Vision Vehicle identifies what’s involved, and coordinates and organises the whole excursion. The drive itself becomes part of a perfectly arranged service. MINI calls this vision of the future experience sharing.

Head of MINI Design Anders Warming sums up the most important aspects of the car: “The MINI VISION NEXT 100 shows how MINI’s unique take on the world could look in the future. The driving experience remains the emotional centrepiece, with effortless and seamless services grouped around it.”

BMW 2002 Hommage. 50 years of pure driving pleasure.

Munich/Cernobbio. The BMW Group has created a very special car for this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este to pay tribute to one of the most significant models in its history. First and foremost, the BMW 2002 Hommage celebrates the extraordinary feats of engineering behind the BMW 2002 turbo – and re-imagines them as a design study for our times.

“Exactly 50 years ago, the 02 range kick-started an era of success for BMW. This compact coupe is one of the vehicles which made the brand what it is today,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The 2002 sat at the top of the range and was the first series-produced car anywhere in Europe to come with turbo technology. That set the seal on the coupe as a genuine sports car. At the same time, the 2002 turbo was at the technological vanguard of engine development at BMW. The BMW 2002 Hommage is our way of raising a glass to all these achievements.”

A confident statement of unadulterated driving joy.

“The eye-catching design of the BMW 2002 Hommage employs a very dynamic, striking use of forms for its own take on what is, for me, one of the most iconic vehicles in BMW history,” says Karim Habib, Head of Design BMW Automobiles. “At the same time, it encapsulates BMW’s major motor sport triumphs, which were made possible by turbo technology. As such, the Hommage car brings together the past and future of BMW into a confident statement of unadulterated driving joy.”

The sporting silhouette of the BMW 2002 Hommage lies low against the road. Its compact proportions, complete with long wheelbase, short overhangs and prominent “shark nose”, promise a driving experience that thrills with irresistible dynamics and agility. Aerodynamic details like the large spoilers at the front and rear team up with the profusion of air intakes to optimise airflow around the car and maximise downforce in every driving situation.

   

Historic details with a modern twist.

Inspired by the signature chrome strip that ringed the 02 in its day, a horizontal carbon band wraps itself around the shoulderline of the BMW 2002 Hommage and splits the body visually into separate sections. The upper tranche of roof, bonnet and boot lid has matt paintwork to prevent reflection of the sun’s rays –
in a reference to racing cars of yore. The body’s lines here are minimalist, clearly drawn and flowing in nature. The lower section creates a definite contrast, with its high-gloss paintwork, very bold, sculptural surfaces, and distinctive lines that infuse the flanks with a contemporary flavour and draw the eye to the driven rear wheels. The Space Race Metal paintwork drapes itself over the BMW 2002 Hommage like liquid metal. In both its matt and gloss form, the light metallic blue finish changes in appearance from a brightly fluorescent blue to grey, depending on the incidence of light, and lends the surfacing a dynamic sense of depth. As a result, the car’s whole body brims with power and energy.

A particularly striking feature of the car’s flanks are the voluminously moulded wheel arches, which frame the body like four brackets and add stature. In the process, they recall the homologated version of the BMW 2002 turbo, which needed broad extensions bolted onto its body to accommodate a significantly wider track. The Hommage car integrates this detail neatly into flanks designed with clear dedication to the job at hand. Slick surfacing and precisely chiselled lines envelop the powerful wheel arches and hand them a starring role. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in bi-colour design round off the styling as the car meets the road. The modern looks of these lavishly milled, multi-spoke items recall the racing rims of bygone eras, while gold-coloured brake callipers bearing the M logo add an extra stamp of class.

Fronted by 50 years of BMW history.

The front end of the BMW 2002 Hommage is a confident and extravagantly dynamic affair; its styling bridges a gap of 50 years in combining the characteristic, horizontal graphic of the 02 range with modern elements of BMW design. The front end is framed visually by the prominent wheel arches. And the wide track and low-slung body provide an ample canvas for generously-sized surfaces. In its lines and form, the bonnet references the “spear” contour stretching down the centre of the 02 models that swells slightly into a surround for the BMW logo as it approaches the kidney grille. Further precise lines lend structure and definition to the matt surface.

Occupying centre stage at the front end is the familiar BMW kidney grille.
Here, it takes the form of a low-standing, connected unit, offering a flesh slant on the kidneys’ historical rendering as a cohesive design element. Sculpted, black double-bars add finesse to the details of the broad-set grille. Like the BMW 2002, the BMW 2002 Hommage also has two single headlights that provide the striking front end with its outer limits. The headlights are bordered by reflectors, whose gold colouring is a pointer to the “golden” 50th anniversary of the BMW 2002’s launch. The reflectors also reprise the yellow hue commonly found in the headlights of racing cars back in the day. An unbroken black strip creates a fitting visual platform for the kidneys and headlights, brings together the stylistic elements of the front end and, in so doing, underlines the car’s wide and athletic stance. Those with a keen eye will also pick out the turn signal repeaters, which – like those of the car’s forebear – are located separately from the headlights and embedded into a full-width strip (in carbon on the Hommage car) above them.

The large front apron, a stylistic nod to those models of the 1970s, shortens the visual distance between the BMW 2002 Hommage and the road and shines a bright spotlight on its driver focus. Together with the car’s wide, sporting stance, this technically innovative, forward-thinking design sends out a message of top-class roadholding and handling flair through fast corners. Now, as in the heyday of the BMW 2002, design excellence and turbo technology bring unsurpassed levels of fun to twisty race tracks, country roads and mountain passes alike. The BMW Motorsport livery of the front apron and its “turbo” lettering in mirror writing casts the mind back to the original decals of the 2002 turbo, as does the exterior mirror cap on the driver’s side. Accent surfaces in exposed carbon mark the point where the front apron and side skirts hand over to the road, and also provide a technically alluring contrast to the body-coloured surfaces.

Bringing matters to a sporting conclusion.

The rear-end design of the BMW 2002 Hommage also calls on elements of the 2002 turbo. For example, the horizontal sub-division of the car’s generous surfaces and its clear lines make a width-emphasising and thus suitably dynamic statement, laced with modern feel. The form of the rear lights is inspired by the same historical blueprint. The almost rectangular lights provide a stylistic border for the rear end. The glass covers have a contemporary black-panel look and only offer a view of the inner workings when the lights illuminate. All you can see when they are dormant is an unbroken black surface. As at the front of the car, this strengthens the impression of a strip wrapped around the car.
The BMW logo to the right of the license plate between the two rear lights is likewise a characteristic element of 02 rear styling. The muscular wheel arches bookend the rear section and accentuate the wide track, while precise spoiler lips bring a modern edge to the car’s detailing. A carbon diffuser integrates the now familiar two sets of twin exhaust tailpipes and wraps up the rear styling with a sporting flourish.

BMW’s fresh interpretation of the BMW 2002 adopts the form of a compact sports coupe in the classical tradition of BMW Hommage cars. But more than that, the BMW 2002 Hommage represents a clear statement of how pure driving pleasure is defined in 2016.