The Alfa Romeo Giulia is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, marking a decade of being one of the oldest sedans in the market. However, the iconic Italian sedan is on the verge of being phased out, signaling the end of an era for traditional sedans. The upcoming second-generation model, set to debut in 2026, will bid farewell to the classic saloon design and embrace a new form in response to the changing landscape of consumer preferences.
In a recent interview with French publication L’Argus, Alfa Romeo’s new CEO, Santo Ficili, revealed that the revamped Giulia will sport “a new design and a new type of bodywork.” The next-generation Giulia is expected to adopt SUV-inspired elements, sharing a platform with the Stelvio. This shift towards a more crossover-like appearance is a strategic move by the Stellantis brand to cater to the evolving demands of the market.
While the exact details of the new Giulia’s design are still under wraps, industry insiders speculate that it could take the form of a five-door liftback, similar to models like the Citroën C5 X and Peugeot 4008. This new iteration is likely to feature a higher ground clearance than a traditional sedan but may not sit as tall as the Stelvio SUV. The emphasis on a sleek roofline hints at a more dynamic and aerodynamic profile, albeit at the expense of some practicality.
Despite the departure from its sedan roots, the next-gen Giulia promises to be a showstopper in terms of aesthetics. Former Alfa Romeo CEO Jean Philippe Imparato described the upcoming model as “a bomb” in terms of design, highlighting the brand’s commitment to creating a visually striking vehicle. The transition to Stellantis’ STLA Large platform will also result in a larger footprint for the Giulia, offering increased dimensions in length and width compared to its predecessor.
One key improvement expected in the new Giulia is the enhancement of rear passenger space, addressing a common criticism of the current model’s compact back seats. The shift to the STLA Large platform will allow for a more generous wheelbase, providing a more comfortable interior layout for occupants. Additionally, the next-generation Giulia will be based on a “BEV-native” platform, hinting at the possibility of electric powertrains alongside traditional combustion engines.
While the iconic Quadrifoglio’s V-6 engine may be retired, enthusiasts can still look forward to a potent six-cylinder powerplant, possibly similar to the twin-turbo inline-six found in the Dodge Charger Sixpack. Alfa Romeo’s decision to retain combustion engines in certain markets reflects a strategic approach to cater to varying consumer preferences.
In conclusion, the impending transformation of the Alfa Romeo Giulia signifies a bold new direction for the iconic sedan, embracing a crossover-inspired design language while retaining the brand’s signature style and performance heritage. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Alfa Romeo’s decision to adapt to changing trends reflects a commitment to innovation and staying ahead of the curve.
