2009 Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Design Concept

Alfa MiTo GTA – Front View Pictures

The Alfa Romeo MiTo (known internally as the type 955) is a three door sporty supermini officially introduced on 19 June 2008 in Castello Sforzesco in Milan and the international introduction was at British Motor Show in 2008. The car was available in all Alfa’s major markets in stages from July. The three-door hatchback is front-wheel drive and will be sold to compete with the MINI and the upcoming Audi A1. Designed by Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, the design is believed to be inspired by the 8C Competizione.

The MiTo is built on Fiat/GM SCSS platform used on Fiat Grande Punto, also employed by the Opel/Vauxhall Corsa D.

MiTo GTA concept

The GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerita), the sportiest version of the MiTo was unveiled in March 2009 Geneva Motor Show as a prototype. This version has 1.75 litre turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing both inlet and exhaust. The choice of engine size is very significant – the 1750 DOHC inline 4 engine was the largest engine available in Alfa Romeos for many years, and therefore an association certain to be prized by Alfisti. Therefore, this particular displacement is certain to guarantee sales among enthusiasts. The maximum power is 240 PS (177 kW; 237 hp). The MiTo GTA has top speed of 250 kilometres per hour (155 mph) and acceleration from zero to 100 kilometres per hour (62 mph) in 5 seconds. The weight of the GTA has been reduced by using carbon-fiber for the tailgate spoiler as well as roof and mirror fairings. Aluminium is also used to reduce the weight. The suspension is lowered by 20 millimetres (0.8 in) and the car has active rear suspension.

Engines

At launch the MiTo will feature low-displacement turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. Also, a power limited 79 PS (58 kW; 78 hp) naturally aspirated engine variant is produced to meet the new Italian legislation for young people.[3] MiTo got new electro-hydraulic valve control system Multiair engines from September 2009. MultiAir engines will increase power (up to 10%) and torque (up to 15%), as well as a considerable reduction in consumption levels (up to 10%) and CO2 emissions (up to 10%), of particulates (up to 40%) and NOx (up to 60%).[14] This new engine is available with 105 PS (77 kW; 104 bhp) ,135 PS (99 kW; 133 bhp) and 170 PS (125 kW; 168 bhp) power ratings.[15] All multiair versions have start-stop system as standard. In October 2009 was unveiled a dual fuel MiTo version, this version can run with LPG (Liquefied petroleum gas) or petrol, with this engine MiTo has range of 1,200 kilometres (750 mi). The LPG version is made colloboration with Landi Renzo.

Alfa MiTo GTA – Rear Angle Pictures

Features

The car has new “Alfa DNA” system which allows driver to choose between three different driving settings; Dynamic, Normal and All-Weather, this setting controls the behaviour of engine, brakes, steering, suspension and gearbox. The MiTo has also LED tail lights and 250-litre (8.8 cu ft) boot space. The MiTo also features a Q2 electronic differential on the front wheels, which allows for faster and tighter cornering without loss of traction. The aggressiveness of the differential is linked to the DNA switch.

Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA, world preview

Gran Turismo Alleggerito: a historical and famous “signature” throughout the world which, interpreted in a modern and effective manner, has guided the entire development of the MiTo GTA Concept, which has the priority objectives of reducing weight and achieving an excellent power-to-weight ratio. Hence the decision to use components of ultra-light carbon fiber – as for example the tailgate spoiler, the roof and the mirror fairings – as well as the use of aluminum for the braking system, suspension and some parts of the chassis. And the body has been completely revised, maintaining the very high level of torsional rigidity (a necessary element for the maximum efficacy of the suspension) and optimizing many structural and reinforcing components; a necessary “diet”, not only to reduce weight but also to lower the center of gravity, enhancing agility and driving precision. To the same end, a special onboard set-up has been specified, preserving the equipment and systems most directly associated with the sporting use of the car. Finally, to obtain the best power-to-weight ratio in its category, an innovative engine, endowed with character and technology, has been specially developed.

So, the MiTo GTA Concept car boasts an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio which contributes to making it the standard-bearer of Alfa Romeo sporting cars. The design is sensual, modern, but never overstated, and from first sight it communicates a technological “DNA” which forms the inspiration for the development of future high performance versions.

1.75 Liter 240 HP Turbo Gasoline Engine: the sporting heart of the MiTo GTA Concept

Everyone recognizes the ability of the Italian motoring industry to produce engines full of “determination” and temperament, real “jewels” born out of experience and the passion of engineers allied with technical skills consolidated over the years. So there is no question that the engine should be designed and developed by the engineers of FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies, exploiting the experience which created the mythical Twin Spark and V6 engines as well as the racing engines which Alfa Romeo brought to racing tracks throughout the world.

And anyone whose character has been molded on the race track knows that he must always look to the challenges of the future. The Mito GTA car Concept engine was developed in accordance with this principle, using advanced technical solutions in the field of spark ignition engines, including direct gasoline injection, dual VVT, the turbocharger and a revolutionary management system. Hence the exciting performances comparable with those of an engine of 3000 cc, while consumption is maintained at moderate levels typical of a 4-cylinder engine of average capacity, benefiting the environment and operating costs.
In addition, the engine has been designed to interact with the Alfa D.N.A. system which allows the driver to select the most suitable driving mode and thereby modify the operating parameters of the various vehicle systems, enhancing driving pleasure and safety under all conditions.

Alfa MiTo GTA – Right Side Pictures

Alfa unveiled the MiTo GTA today, and it’s a little cracker. Officially it’s still only a concept, so some of its bits and pieces might go by the time it fizzles into reality. But if it looks anything like this, we’ll be happy.

Everything you see is functional – from the rear diffuser to the carbon fibre roof and wing mirrors. And those twin-exit exhausts look like a couple of ballistic weapons, which is great news for people who like noise.

Official power figures have been announced, too. It will make 240bhp from its little 1.75-litre turbocharged engine, the same one that’s in the MiTo already, only tuned up to squeeze out more performance.

No sign of a special front diff to filter that power to the road surface, though. We always suspected the GTA might be a little torque steery and now those suspicions have been confirmed.

Instead, Alfa is relying on a new active damping system to make sure things don’t get too lairy. It will work with the MiTo’s ‘DNA’ system, which alters steering and throttle severity depending on road conditions and your driving mood.

So if you got out of the hooligan side of bed this morning, you’re in luck – this one’s for you. Let’s just hope the production version is as cool as this.