Putting the “Car” in “Charisma”
If at first you don’t succeed, wait for about 20 years and try, try again. That’s basically the story of Alfa Romeo’s hasty retreat from American shores. Despite building some iconic roadsters (the Spider) and a rather sporty sedan (the 164), Alfa Romeo was left spinning its wheels, unable to gain a foothold in an American market that proved unforgiving.
That was then, and Alfa Romeo is back and determined to deliver the goods with the all-new 4C sport coupe. Hailing from Modena, Italy, the 4C is a lightweight, mid-engine sports car that radiates style and charisma like only the very best Italian cars can.
So how does the 4C fair? Is it the very best of what Italian style and engineering have to offer? Will you welcome it into your garage with an enthusiastic buongiorno? Or will you will be quick to bid arrivederci?
Let’s find out.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C is driven by a turbocharged 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an automated dual-clutch transmission.
Without a traditional clutch pedal, 4C drives very much like a regular automatic—only with exceptionally quick shifts and more direct throttle control. While it’s not your standard three-pedal makeup, the dual-clutch design functions supremely well. And much of the 4C’s riveting character is owed to it.
It also sips fuel with surprising efficiency. The 4C earns an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 28 mpg combined (24 city/34 highway).*
That’s merely one aspect of the 4C’s phenomenal spec sheet of goodies, though. As a mid-engine sports car, the 4C benefits from the engine being placed – you guessed it – smack dab in the middle. Hence, the 4C enjoys better weight distribution and an improved center of gravity over a traditionally front- or rear-mounted engine. And because there is no second row of seating, the 4C’s mid-engine layout never impedes upon functionality.
Seemingly malnourished, the 4C weighs less than 2,500 pounds. That beach-ready waistline is made possible through extensive use of aluminum, and a carbon-fiber monocoque structure. Needless to say all of that helps make the 4C fast, agile, and ready to carve up corners with reckless abandon.
Finally, the 4C lacks any kind of steering assistance. This old-school approach marries driver to road in a way that has yet to be truly replicated with more modern drive by wire systems. For a true, unfiltered driving experience, we wouldn’t want it any other way.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C is a two-passenger sport coupe available in base and Launch Edition trims, with a starting MSRP of $53,900.**
Despite its performance-focused slant, the 4C comes with a robust list of standard features, including 17-inch front and 18-inch high performance tires, keyless entry, one-touch power windows, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a digital instrument panel. Bluetooth® hands-free phone functionality and wireless audio streaming are also standard, as is a four-speaker sound system—complete with USB/iPod® support.
The 4C can be further outfitted with a number of optional packages. These include an Exterior Appearance package, which adds a body-color rear spoiler and satin-finish exterior mirrors; a Convenience Package, which includes cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a premium-speaker upgrade; a Leather Interior Group that includes various leather touches to the interior; and a Track package, which adds various carbon fiber touches to the interior, as well as a track-tuned suspension and leather/simulated suede steering wheel.
In addition to the above packages, the fully-loaded Launch Editions comes with various features such as larger wheels, painted brake calipers, and other individual items that can be added a la carte to the standard base model.
Design
The Alfa Romeo 4C is defined by its sporty proportions and seductive styling. There’s no mistaking where this gorgeous sports car hails from nor should there be. Style is something Italian designers are rich in, and the 4C is as sharp as they come. You’d even be forgiven for mistaking the 4C with Italy’s famous equine-badged makes.
The interior can best be described as sporty and functional. Material quality is excellent, especially with the available Leather options. Taller drivers will also be pleased with the amount of head and legroom on tap.
Of course, like all sporty coupes of its ilk, what the 4C lacks in out-and-out-comforts it more than makes up for in pure driving bliss.
Safety
The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C features a robust list standard safety features. These include antilock disc brakes, multimode stability and traction control system, hill-start assist, front and side airbags, and a driver-side knee airbag.
Bottom Line
There are only a handful of cars as thrilling as the Alfa Romeo 4C and they all cost two or three times as much. Armed with this knowledge, and if you’re in the market for a pure, unadulterated sports car, the Alfa Romeo should at least be near the top of your list.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us at 3Birds Template.
* EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**MSRP excludes destination ($1,595), taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification.
Image: Alfa Romeo
