Alfa Romeo to give 4C new 224kW engine

Alfa Romeo has announced details of a new 1.8 litre four cylinder engine which will be launched in 2013. Suitable for both longitudinal and transverse layouts the engine will have an impressive 224kW (300hp). It’s expected this new powerplant will find its way beneath the gorgeous curves of the 4C sportscar (due in Australia by 2014).

Currently, the 4C Concept is powered by an existing “200hp+” 1750 turbo four and has a published body weight of 850kg.

The new 1.8 litre will feature all aluminum construction and its power will be achieved through the use of a high-efficiency turbocharger. Alfa say the engine will set new benchmarks in performance and economy.

Alfa Romeo to produce 224kW 1.8 litre engine

Joining the 1.4 125 kW MultiAir and the 1.7 litre 173 kW TBi small capacity/high output engines already used in the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Italian car maker has announced that it will launch a new 1.8 litre 224 kW engine in early 2013 which, says Alfa Romeo, will set new performance, economy and emissions standards.

Designed for both transverse and longitudinal applications, the new direct injection four cylinder engine will be compliant with future emissions standards in both Europe (Euro 6) and the U.S. (Tier 2 Bin 5) and will be used in both existing and future models.

Made entirely of aluminium, the engine will incorporate the most advanced technological content; including a 200-bar gasoline direct injection system, dual variable timing and a high-efficiency turbocharger.

The aluminium architecture, combined with the most innovative technologies, will offer power-to-weight ratio, fuel efficiency, acoustic/NVH comfort, and driving performance that are the very best in its category and characteristic of Alfa Romeo engines.

“This is an extremely important step for Alfa Romeo, as we continue to reposition our brand and prepare it for global distribution. The United States remains our primary objective as we prepare for a 2013 introduction of our models,” added Harald J. Wester, Fiat’s Chief Technology Officer and head of the Alfa Romeo and Maserati Brands. “The dedication of Group-wide resources to develop specific powertrain solutions for the specific needs of Alfa Romeo is a reflection of the renewed thrust we are placing on the development of this brand. This is a first step in a series of initiatives to be implemented in the near future which will reconnect Alfa Romeo to its historical roots as a premium Italian sports car brand.”