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!
The new Giulia can already be ordered from showrooms across Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands. For specific details and prices, please visit the local press sites. 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 AlfaTM Active Aero Splitter actively manages downforce at high speed.
One of the primary objectives at the heart of the design of the new Giulia was to achieve ultimate driving satisfaction. The key factors towards achieving this goal include the perfect weight distribution between the two axles and excellent weight-to-power ratio.
The excellent weight distribution between the two axles required astute management of weights and materials, which was achieved by tweaking the layout and arranging the heavier elements in the most central position possible.
The ideal weight-to-power ratio was achieved by using ultralight materials. Carbon fibre was chosen for the propeller shaft and aluminium for the engines, suspension system, brakes, doors, wheel arches and bonnet. The extensive use of ultralight materials led to an unladen weight of 1,374 kg for the 180 HP 2.2-litre diesel version.
The reduced weight does not affect the excellent torsional rigidity that guarantees quality over time, acoustic comfort and handling even in conditions of extreme stress.
The Quadrifoglio version with 510 HP 2.9-litre V6 BiTurbo petrol engine has an unladen weight of 1,524 kg and a weight-to-power ratio of 2.99 kg/HP. These extraordinary results were achieved by extending the use of carbon fibre also to the roof, bonnet, front splitter and rear Nolder, and to the side inserts of the skirts too. The weight of the Quadrifoglio version can be further reduced using two components which are available upon request: carbon ceramic brake discs and Sparco seats with a carbon fibre rear structural frame.
In keeping with Alfa Romeo’s technical traditions, the electronics should never be invasive, but merely assist the driving experience which is exhilarating in itself thanks to perfectly designed chassis and suspension system. The new Giulia is no different: it is structurally unique and exciting, but it does not forego the numerous and sophisticated safety systems, offered as standard or upon request depending on the trim level.
AlfaTM Torque Vectoring (only on the Giulia Quadrifoglio)
The Torque Vectoring technology, with a double clutch integrated in the rear differential, makes it possible to control torque delivery to each wheel separately. In this way, power transmission to the road is improved also in low grip conditions. So, the driving is safe and fun without ever running up against an invasive stability control system.
Integrated Brake System (IBS)
The new Giulia introduces in a worldwide preview the innovative IBS electromechanical system which combines stability control and a traditional servo brake. By successfully integrating electronics with mechanics, in addition to a significant optimisation of weight distribution, excellent feeling and total absence of pedal vibrations, the system guarantees instantaneous braking response for a record-breaking stopping distance: from 100 km/h to 0 in 38.5 metres for the Giulia and in 32 metres for the Quadrifoglio version.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) with pedestrian recognition
The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system is fitted as standard on all versions and, using a radar sensor and a camera built into the front windscreen, it detects the presence of any obstacles or vehicles on the car’s trajectory, warning the driver of the risk of imminent collision. Should the driver fail to intervene, the Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) system automatically brakes to avoid impact or mitigate its consequences. What’s more, thanks to the pedestrian recognition function, by interpreting the information sent by the radar and camera, the AEB is capable of stopping the car autonomously up to 65 km/h.
AlfaTM Active Aero Splitter (only on the Giulia Quadrifoglio)
In addition to an excellent Cx (0.32), a perfect balance of forces on corners and downforce behaviour, the Quadrifoglio version has the AlfaTM Active Aero Splitter, a front carbon flap which actively manages downforce for superior aerodynamic load, for higher performance and better grip at high speed.
AlfaTM DNA and AlfaTM DNA Pro (only on the Giulia Quadrifoglio)
The new Giulia also fits the brand new AlfaTM DNA, which modifies the car’s dynamic behaviour according to the driver’s selection: Dynamic, Natural, Advanced Efficiency (energy efficiency mode implemented for the first time on an Alfa Romeo) and Race (only on the Quadrifoglio version).
AlfaTM Chassis Domain Control (only on the Giulia Quadrifoglio)
Developed jointly with Magneti Marelli, the AlfaTM Chassis Domain Control (CDC) technology acts like the car’s “brains” and coordinates all the onboard electronics. The system manages the action of the various features – such as the renewed AlfaTM DNA Pro selector, the AlfaTM Torque Vectoring, the AlfaTM Active Aero Splitter, the active suspension system and ESC – and assigns specific tasks of optimising performance and driving pleasure to each one. More in detail, the CDC adapts the ride in real time making the AlfaTM DNA Pro mode mappings dynamic according to acceleration and rotation data detected by the sensors. Critical situations are prevented and managed by informing the specific control units involved in the electronic system of the car in advance: chassis, powertrain, suspension system, braking system, steering, power steering and differential on curves.
Suspension system with exclusive AlfaTMLink technology
On the front, a new double track control arm suspension with semi-virtual steering axis was developed to optimise the filtering effect and guarantee rapid, accurate steering. This Alfa Romeo exclusive keeps the tyre footprint constant on corners and can tackle high lateral accelerations. In any situation and at all speeds, driving the Alfa Romeo Giulia with the most direct steering ratio in its segment (11.8) is natural and instinctive. A four and a half track solution – patented by Alfa Romeo – ensuring top performance, driving satisfaction and comfort has been chosen for the rear axle.
8.8″ Connect 3D Nav
The next-generation 8.8″ Connect 3D Nav system on the new Giulia – developed jointly with Magneti Marelli – offers a sophisticated series of features and functions, including a next-generation HMI human-machine interface. The system is controlled by means of the Rotary Pad and by using the high resolution 8.8″ display integrated in the dashboard. In addition, thanks to “optical bonding” technology, the user benefits from an excellent level of visualisation and readability on the display.
8.8″ Connect 3D Nav is equipped with an advanced voice recognition system for complete connectivity with all mobile devices (mobile phones, smartphones, tablets with Apple iOS and Android operating systems). The next-generation infotainment system on the new Giulia not only allows you to manage the DAB digital radio and the digital Hi-FI audio system, but also allows you to use Bluetooth technology to make phone calls “hands free” and reproduce audio contents from a USB device or smartphone. Finally, the system implements navigation functions with high-resolution 3D maps. The system is quick to calculate routes and can be used even if the GPS signal is missing by exploiting Dead Reckoning technology. It also displays driving system information regarding driving style as well as the type of ride relating to the AlfaTM DNA/ AlfaTM DNA Pro selector.
Human-machine interface
The passenger compartment of the new car offers the best in terms of quality, safety, equipment and comfort with a specific, profoundly Alfa Romeo style element: focus on the driver.
Not by chance, all the main controls, including the start button, are incorporated in the steering wheel, while the human-machine interface consists of two simple, user-friendly knobs for adjusting the AlfaTM DNA selector and the infotainment system.
Instrument panel cluster
Depending on the trim levels, the 3.5″ or 7″ colour instrument panel cluster offers the driver all the essential information about the car. Organised over four screens, displayed information depends on the DNA mode selected by the driver and includes real-time driving readings, lateral acceleration, fuel consumption and gear shift suggestions.
Front and rear light clusters: a compendium of style excellence and technology
Made by Magneti Marelli in partnership with Alfa Romeo, the front and rear light clusters on the new Giulia are genuine design elements, accentuating the elegance, silhouette and personality of the car, identifying it at first glance.
The LED rear light clusters enhance the rear end in a uniquely distinctive manner, while providing significant benefits in terms of safety thanks to quicker activation in the event of braking.
Design and ergonomics characterise the headlights, which are available in three different versions: halogen lamps or implementing next-generation Xenon technology with 25W and 35W module. The latter, fitted with high light tone lamp (equal to 4500°K), are capable of increasing the light flux and light diffusion with energy saving and night visibility which, in the case of the 35W module, increases by 200% with respect to normal halogen headlights. Furthermore, the front light clusters guarantee greater safety: indeed, an obstacle can be seen at least one second earlier, which is equal to an advantage of 28 metres of braking distance when travelling at 50 km/h.
The 35W Xenon headlights implement AFS (Adaptive Frontlights System) technology which directs the beam of light towards the inside of corners for greater visibility.
Lastly, the daylight running lights (DRL), cornering light, side lights and direction indicators use LED technology for better fuel efficiency and maximum performance.
Driving assist systems
The design concept behind the new Giulia envisages the driver at the very heart of the driving experience. The car assists the driver in this task in every way, offering the very best available technology to this end, for maximum peace of mind and driving safety. The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system uses a radar sensor and a camera built into the front windscreen to warm the driver of any imminent impact with another vehicle or with an obstacle on the same trajectory as the car, warning or assisting the driver in avoiding collisions or attenuating the consequences. Should the driver fail to intervene, the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system with pedestrian recognition automatically brakes to avoid the collision or reduce the consequences of the impact.
Lastly, the package of driving assist systems wouldn’t be complete without the Lane Departure Warning (LDW) that detects unintentional lane changes and the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) device (optional) that monitors the area around the car using sensors and assists the driver during lane changes and when overtaking.
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.
Source FCA
