2009 Alfa Romeo MiTo
By Ian Lynas, 30th January 2009
Sporty, sexy and compact, Alfa Romeo‘s new baby, the MiTo ticks all the boxes and is set to open up a whole new generation of buyers.
Inspired by the Alfa 8C Competizione, the MiTo is the first sporty compact from the famous Italian marque since the 1970s and it comes to market at the right time, especially as downsizing has become in fashion.
Designed to appeal to a young, image-conscious audience, Alfa Romeo‘s collaboration between the Milano (MI) styling centre, (Alfa Romeo Centro Stile), and the Torino (TO) factory, (Mirafiori), is well priced, well built and well specified. And as you can see this is how the name MiTo was derived.
Three high specification models to choose from, Turismo, Lusso and Veloce and a choice of five engines, three petrol and two diesels.
I confess right away I am an Alfa Romeo fan; the MiTo delivers not only in terms of power output and road handling, but like any Italian with style.
The shield-shaped grille is imposingly sited at the end of a sculpted V-shaped bonnet, flanked by clear lens and teardrop headlamps and the high waistline, flared wheel arches, disguised B-pillar and minimal rear overhang combine to communicate power, performance and agility.
The hatchback rear of the MiTo features a segment first: LED lights. Brighter, faster responding and thus safer, these lights can be ordered with a choice of coloured surrounds.
The high quality interior feels like a car from a class above, with its unique carbon fibre-look dashboard. The sporty dials are hooded and the central console comes with a satin finish.
Soundproofing helps create a quiet and refined environment that optimises the inclusion of a Bose sound system and integrated Blue & Me with satellite navigation on certain models.
Alfa Romeo‘s innovative DNA system is another first for the class. A three-position switch, situated beside the gearlever, alters the throttle response and steering set-up for different driving environments, Dynamic, Normal and All Weather and it really works very well.
I tried two versions of the MiTo in Dynamic mode, the throttle response is quicker, the steering is sharper and the handling is more direct. Traverse icy and loose surface environments and the All Weather mode provides a more gentle response.
Alfa Romeo‘s Electronic Q2 limited slip differential heads a list of dynamic driver aids, including a long list of safety systems. All of these all help deliver impressive driving dynamics and handling, along with sure-footed road holding capabilities.
The versions I sampled, both featured a six speed gearbox. Most impressive was the turbo 155bhp 1.4 Lusso. Performance wise‘ 0-62mph in 8 seconds, and on to a top speed of 134mph‘.
In recognition of its safety equipment, the MiTo has attained a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Seven airbags including front airbags, window bags, sidebags and driver‘s kneebag work with the Self Aligning Head Restraint, a system that moves the head restraints closer to the neck of the front seat occupants to lessen the effect of whiplash in the event of an impact.
During emergency braking, the MiTo automatically operates its hazard lights to alert other road users.
Alfa Romeo have put a lot of effort into quality and the MiTo scores highly and even better news for the buyer when it comes to residual values it is on par with the Mini.
It would be fair to say that people bought an Alfa Romeo with their heart, with MiTo it will be a case of heart and head.
The good news story continues for this newcomer, insurance groupings range from 3-10 and the price range; £10,745 to £14,745 and Alfa Romeo offer a number of options to provide the buyer the opportunity to personalise their purchase.
