Geneva 2013: 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C debuts as Italy’s latest ‘compact supercar’

By Nick Jaynes March 6, 2013

Alfa Romeo 4C — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Alfa Romeo has pulled the veils off its latest creation, one that is hoped to recharge the brand’s slumping sales. The 4C not only marks a new way forward for the ailing Italian automaker but also the entry into two huge global markets: The U.S. and China.

The name 4C follows the lineage of two infamous Alfas from the 1930s and ‘40s, the 8C and 6C. Both revolutionized automotive engine technology at the time, powered by innovative eight and six cylinders, respectively. Alfa hopes the 4C will have a similar affect on the automotive market.

Powered by an engine Alfa calls the “1750 Turbo Petrol.” The inventive all-aluminum four-cylinder features direct injection and a revolutionary “scavenging” control system that eliminates turbo lag. Alfa engineers have mounted the engine mid-car and have sent the power to the rear wheels, making it a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive car, much like today’s supercars. Bolted to the all-aluminum four-cylinder is a “TCT” twin dry clutch transmission. Drivers shift the transmission with two paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel.

Alfa Romeo 4C — Image used with permission by copyright holder

With what Alfa calls its “Alfa DNA Selector,” drivers can choose from four driving modes: Dynamic, Neutral, Weather, and Race, the latter of which is said to improve the race track experience and more.

Though this agile two-seater was designed by primarily by Alfa Romeo, Maserati’s engineering team had a hand in the design. In fact, the 4C will be built in Maserati’s Modena assembly plant.

Alfa Romeo has not made pricing available yet but with its U.S. launch set for sometime in the fall of 2013, official pricing can’t be too far off. As soon as we know more about the 4C’s Stateside debut, we’ll be sure to update you.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.