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The Quadrifoglio Legacy Continues: Powertrain Choices for the Next Generation
Alfa Romeo fans around the globe have eagerly awaited news on the future of the prestigious Quadrifoglio badge, especially as electrification sweeps across the automotive industry. While expectations were high that the next-generation Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio would embrace full electric power, recent developments indicate that internal combustion engines (ICE) may still have a place under the hoods of Alfa’s most revered performance models.
Alfa Romeo’s CEO, Santo Ficili, recently confirmed in an interview with Top Gear that the company remains committed to preserving the spirit of Quadrifoglio. Ficili shared his vision, stating, “Quadrifoglio can be BEV, why not? But it can also be ICE.” This strategic flexibility highlights Alfa Romeo’s dedication to its motorsport heritage while also navigating the demands of modern automotive technology.
Performance Specifications: Electric Ambition Meets Traditional Power
The future of the Quadrifoglio lineup promises exciting possibilities. Former CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato hinted at a fully electric version of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio, rumored to boast a staggering 986 horsepower (736 kW or 1,000 PS). If realized, this would position it firmly in the ranks of supercars, setting a new benchmark for luxury SUVs.
However, whether production models will actually reach these impressive figures remains uncertain. Should an internal combustion or hybrid variant emerge, expect a slightly tamer—yet still thrilling—performance, allowing purists to connect with Alfa Romeo’s racing DNA.
Both the upcoming Giulia and Stelvio will be built on the STLA Medium platform. This advanced architecture has experienced development delays, primarily due to the inclusion of ICE and plug-in hybrid versions alongside electrics. Ficili confirmed both models have been re-engineered at the front end to ensure adequate cooling for gasoline engines, demonstrating Alfa’s commitment to flexibility and driving excitement.
Design: Preserving Alfa Romeo’s Unique Identity
Alfa Romeo’s design philosophy remains a cornerstone. Ficili emphasized, “When you look at the car, you must understand immediately it is an Alfa.” The focus is on delivering both visual allure and dynamic precision. The next Quadrifoglio models aim to strike the right balance between suspension, responsive steering, effective damping, a signature exhaust note, and legendary engine performance. The result? A driving experience that is unmistakably Alfa Romeo.
Market Positioning: Passion Over Volume
Despite the challenges in the automotive market and pressures to match the scale of competitors like BMW, Alfa Romeo chooses to remain a boutique brand for passionate enthusiasts. Ficili is clear: “We need to keep the customers who are in love with Alfa.” Brand loyalty, motorsport pedigree, and a lineup of historically significant cars give Alfa Romeo a unique allure. The new Alfa Romeo Junior is designed to attract younger customers while bridging the gap to the established Alfisti community.
Synergies, Limited Editions, and The Promise of More
There are intriguing prospects for further collaboration with Maserati, particularly in the realm of exclusive supercars. Ficili hinted at potential successors to models like the 8C, 6C, and recently sold-out 33 Stradale, reflecting Alfa’s willingness to tap into its heritage for future projects.
Moreover, while the return of sportier coupes and spider models—which are central to Alfa’s identity—is paused for now, such models remain an ambition for the future. The immediate goal is financial stability by prioritizing vehicles that support the brand’s growth during these “not so clear” times.
Comparisons and Outlook: The Road Ahead for Quadrifoglio
As the industry moves rapidly toward electrification, Alfa Romeo is taking a measured approach; blending high-performance electrics with the emotive appeal of internal combustion. This dual strategy may set Alfa Romeo apart from rivals who have chosen purely electric paths.
Expected to launch after 2025, with showroom arrivals likely in 2026 or later, the new Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio promise to encapsulate a blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless driving passion. Whether powered by gasoline, electricity, or a hybrid of both, the Quadrifoglio badge will continue to symbolize the pinnacle of Alfa Romeo engineering for driving enthusiasts worldwide.
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