We usually close our posts by inviting you to check out our images, but this time we’re starting here: Go into the gallery and have a look at the little green clover logo adorning the front fender of the new Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde. You’ll notice that the classic Alfa performance badge has received a slightly modern update, courtesy of some techy carbon fiber-style weave. Hardly the most important thing we’ve seen here in Frankfurt, but it tells a deeper story. Because while the MiTo QV draws its distinction from the company’s deep racing history, it’s the forward-thinking technology that sets it apart.
As we reported previously, Alfa is using the MiTo QV to introduce its latest development from Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The MultiAir engine uses advanced electronics and hydraulic actuators to regulate the amount of air being mixed with the gasoline inside the engine’s four combustion chambers to the benefit of throttle response and efficiency. And while the 170 horsepower on offer in the Quadrifoglio Verde may fall short of the 240-horsepower GTA in the pipeline, it is here right now, and best of all, the technology is coming to America as part of Fiat’s partnership with Chrysler… with or without Alfa’s lucky four-leaf clover.
Dynamic Suspension
Competitive racing has always been a testing ground for new technologies, which have found their way from the world’s most famous racetracks to standard road cars. One example of this passage between two seemingly very different worlds is dynamic suspension. This system, which actively and continuously controls the electronic shock absorbers, was developed by combining Alfa Romeo road testing with the latest engineering techniques from Magneti Marelli.
So, using experience gained on the racetrack, the system allows the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde to excel even further in terms of agility and handling, giving it exceptional driveability and unparalleled safety. The driver gets three benefits from the Dynamic Suspension system: comfort, safety and agility. Above all, the electronic shock absorbers adapt to the road conditions and control all the car’s movements. This guarantees maximum comfort and ensures that the unevenness of road surfaces is fully absorbed. In addition, the Dynamic Suspension system always ensures maximum grip and safety by actively responding to all road conditions. Finally, because roll and pitch are more restricted in all conditions, there is better stability and cornering that adds to the undoubted agility of the Alfa Romeo MiTo.
The suspension interacts perfectly with the three different control strategies of the Alfa DNA system. In “Normal”, agility is combined with a higher level of comfort, whereas in “All Weather”, the safety features are enhanced by continual interaction between the Vehicle Dynamic Control stability system, the steering and the suspension. Finally, in “Dynamic”, the MiTo becomes a true sports car clinging to the ground and fit for any road: it is no coincidence that the system was developed at the historic Balocco test track and round the corners of the Nurburgring. So, thanks to the hard work of Alfa Romeo and Magneti Marelli, the car is responsive and reliable when you turn the steering wheel or put your foot on the accelerator.
To give the MiTo a ride worthy of the Quadrifoglio Verde badge, Alfa added a Dynamic Suspension system with continuously variable shock absorbers. The system offers three different modes (Normal, All Weather, and Dynamic), so drivers can custom tailor the ride to fit their particular needs.
In terms of styling, the Quadrifoglio Verde receives a discrete four-leaf clover decal on the fender as well as a satin titanium finish applied to headlight frames, wing mirrors, and 17-inch wheels.
In this case, the new MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde boasts a new 170-horsepower MutliAir engine that uses the latest technologies developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The system optimizes airflow into the combustion chambers, thereby simultaneously improving both performance and fuel economy. The engine and new six-speed transmission are showcased in the Quadrifoglio Verde, and help the sportiest of MiTos get up to sixty in little more than seven seconds while returning an impressive 50 miles per gallon on the highway. Impressive.
To further set the Quadrifoglio Verde apart from ordinary MiTos, the special edition carries 17″ wheels and trim in dark satin chrome, with an all-black interior offset by sporty white instruments. Plus, of course, the famous Quadrifoglio Verde emblem.
The new six-speed C635 gearbox
The technological qualities of the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde are further enhanced by the next-generation C635 gearbox. Developed by FPT and manufactured at the Verrone factory in Italy, this groundbreaking mechanical unit is the first result of a design philosophy aimed at improving driveability, consumption levels and production flexibility.
As far as driveability is concerned, the new gearbox ensures clean and swift changes with very short selection movements, uniform activation pressures, no noise and no vibrations. In addition, modern design and construction techniques help to significantly reduce consumption levels thanks to less friction and the best possible gear ratios.
Its appearance in the Alfa MiTo 170 hp 1.4 MultiAir TBi marks the debut of a modern family of gearboxes adapted for a broad range of models.
0 comments:
Post a Comment