Alfa Romeo Junior analyzed by its designer (Video Show)

Announced several times, Alfa Romeo’s launch appears to be underway at this time. The Italian brand can now rely on the industrial strength of the Stellantis group to provide a complete range according to the law. The new junior will be one of its main representatives. The urban SUV, with a unique design, must win new customers and ensure volume for the Italian company.

This is Junior and no longer Milano, his first baptismal name. Indeed, since the presentation at the beginning of April, the Italian government has put pressure on the manufacturer not to use this name, arguing “that it is illegal to use the name when selling outside its production”. Because Junior is made in Poland. Arbitrary arguments for the leaders ofAlfa Romeo who preferred to play diplomacy by changing the name of their style instead of going to conflict.

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Because indeed, this chic urban SUV is manufactured in Poland in the same factory as the Fiat 600 and Jeep Avenger which shares its platform and several technical features. Technical features are also common to other models from the Stellantis group such as Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka or DS3 Crossback. So this is the sixth example created from that foundation. Suffice it to say that the foundation of this group’s synergy is structure. An important feature, even more so when it comes to Alfa Romeo. “I have been experiencing this situation for 20 years. I worked for the Volkswagen and Renault groups where this practice (synergy) has been so common for so many years that I have become accustomed to these restrictions. We are designers, not artists“, explains Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, guardian of Alfa Romeo Design after 2021.

“We want to capture customers that we don’t have today Alfa Romeo.

This compact SUV should replace the MiTo and Giulietta. A market left by the brand for almost 5 years. A challenge taken on this competitor of Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008.”With this car, we want to attract customers that we don’t have today in Alfa Romeo. I am sure that we will win customers from Mini or Audi.”continues the design boss.

Junior will be able to count first of all on the absence of premium competitors in this segment. Indeed, apart from the Mini, the only existing Smart with 100% electric models, the Junior’s only real rival is the DS 3 Crossback, which is also offered by Stellantis.

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Then, the transalpine design can be based on its design that includes familiar but updated elements such as the Scudetto, this triangular grille offered here in two versions or these two lights.

On the dashboard we find the brand’s codes also reinterpreted such as the “cannocchiale” meters, whose display is digital or the clover-shaped breathers (quadrifoglio) that are very popular with the brand. These interiors are so lovely. It is modern, refined and intelligently combines technology and ergonomics with real physical buttons on one side for ventilation, etc.

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“We wanted to maintain a physical connection between man and machine. For us it is important. we didn’t want touch controls“, explains Alejandro Mesonero. In addition we get a 10-inch multimedia screen, directed towards the driver but placed too low for our taste. It offers a responsive interface and a clear menu. In addition to the graphics, it is similar to ‘ inside the Peugeot 3008. In words others, not the worst, but not the best on the market.

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We also see false hints for a car that claims to be premium, such as hard plastics present on the dashboard or door panels. At this price level, which is more than €30,000 for this “Veloce” version, one can choose.

The big point however is about the seats. These are from Sabelt and ensure excellent support and a driving position that should please as many people as possible.

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Milano is a small cross. He is 4.17 m tall. Alfa Romeo has chosen here to favor the trunk. And 400 liters is one of the largest in the segment. It can be completed in frunk on the electric version. The downside is that the rear seats are cramped, especially at foot level or above 1.80 m, a long journey will not be pleasant.

The new Milano will be launched in France first in a 100% electric version and then in a mild hybrid version, with a starting price of less than €30,000. In total, the catalog will include 4 engines and group strategy roles, all created by Stellantis.

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In detail, electric versions of 156 and 240 hp will be available in the same traction and battery equipment. With a total capacity of 54 kWh, it promises up to 410 kilometers of autonomy in the WLTP combined cycle on the less powerful version. Compatible with direct current (DC) charging up to 100 kW, the Milano promises to go from 10 to 80% charge in 30 minutes. The Milano Elettrica will have a trip planner but unfortunately no battery pre-conditioning, which is very useful in cold weather. A 136 hp hybrid version with a three-cylinder petrol engine and a 48 V hybrid will be offered in front-wheel drive. The latter can be enhanced later with the Q4’s all-wheel drive.

Alfa Romeo wanted to make it easier to configure its design. To put it simply, the engine is the same as the finish. In addition, the customer will be able to choose a package from the three offered to enhance the package. One is dedicated to technology, another to comfort and the last to sports. It is simple and effective. At the launch event, Alfa will launch a series of “Speciale” equipment, priced at €31,500 for the hybrid and €40,500 for the electric.

Competitive prices that reflect Alfa Romeo’s ambitions for its new model. That is, to build volume and win new customers and serve as a gateway to the world of Alfa Romeo. With the lack of competition in the premium segment, Milano is likely to make good on its bet.