We can think of a lot of things from the 90s that we hoped would never come back: Boy Bands, Backwards Jeans, Pauly Shore -- the list goes on. Alfa Romeo, however, is not on that list. And for good reason. While Alfas of old struggled to gain a foothold in the U.S., it wasn't due to a lack of trying, and the brand has always tried to incorporate a unique blend of style and performance. 

Last year, we witnessed the return of Alfa Romeo to these star-spangled shores in the form of the 4C Coupe. This year, the 4C Coupe is back and boasts a new available Carbon Fiber Trim package, a new Alpine® stereo, upgraded speakers, and a new optional dual-mode exhaust.

Performance

The 2016 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, the 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 

The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is a two-passenger sport coupe available in coupe and Spider (convertible) trims, with a starting MSRP of $55,900.**

Despite its performance-focused slant, the 4C comes with a robust list of standard features, including 17-inch front and 18-inch rear 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 an Alpine® 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.

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 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C features a robust list of 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.

Verdict 

There are only a handful of cars as thrilling as the Alfa Romeo 4C, and they all cost two or three times as much, so you don't need the IQ of Leonardo da Vinci to realize the value of the 4C. If you're looking to spice up your commute, or you simply want something to toy around with on the weekend, the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is worth a look. 

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516. 

* 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 Credit: Alfa Romeo