| The Alfa Romeo Mito, the new small Alfa which is set to arrive in Australia later this year, will gain a range-topping hyper-hatch version at the Geneva International Motor Show in March (4 March 2009) with the premiere of the concept Alfa Romeo Mito GTA.
In line with the famous GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) badge, (Alleggerito means reduced weight in Italian), the MiTo GTA Concept prioritises weight reduction and the achievement of an optimum power-to-weight ratio.
Considerable work has gone into lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity; thus certain components such as the tailgate spoiler, roof and mirror fairings are in carbon-fibre; while aluminium is used extensively in the braking system, suspension, and some parts of the chassis. Under the bonnet, an exciting new petrol engine, very much in keeping with the pre-requisites of downsizing, environmental awareness, and the offer of high power and efficiency in return for low weight and optimised packaging, powers the new GTA Concept.
Designed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and exploiting the vast experience gained in the production of Twin Spark and Alfa V6 road and race engines, the compact new petrol engine employs advanced technical solutions including direct injection, dual variable valve timing, state-of-the-art turbocharging and advanced electronic management systems to produce a remarkable 180 kW from just 1742 cc.Under-floor aerodynamics have been a particular concern of the engineers and the under tray design has been further enhanced with the entire car lowered by 20 mm.
Front suspension employs new geometry with aluminium leading arms, while the rear suspension has all-new bushings, and the comprehensively revised chassis boasts an ‘active’ suspension system with advanced damper control, which counteracts the transfer of load under acceleration, stiffening the rear end and maximising traction.
The suspension also interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain the most efficient control of vehicle dynamics, while a ‘Sky-Hook’ function ensures an excellent level of passenger comfort under conditions of everyday use.
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