Alfa Romeo MiTo now in NZ

General manager for Alfa Romeo in NZ Lawrie Malatios says the only thing that has been downsized with the Alfa Romeo MiTo is the size.

“Everything else is what would be expected of an Alfa Romeo, from the style, which is inspired the Alfa Romeo fastest production car, the Alfa 8C Competizione, to its performance, which is provided by a compact turbocharged engine. Equally, the Alfa Romeo MiTo shares a lavish level of equipment with its larger brothers and its long list of advanced technology will make it a benchmark in its class.”

The three-door Alfa Romeo MiTo is launched in New Zealand in one version – the high specification 114 kW MiTo Sport that includes Blue&Me Bluetooth telematics with a USB connection, climate control air conditioning, sports bumpers, spoiler and pedals, rear parking sensors, Brembo Brakes, auto wipers, lights and interior mirror as well as front fog lights.

The MiTo Sport is priced at $44,990 plus statutory charges and delivery.

It reportedly accelerates from 0-100kmh in 8 seconds, and continues to a top speed of 215kmh, yet offers a combined fuel figure of 6.5 litres 100 km.

Alfa Romeo’s 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.

The Alfa MiTo also boasts high levels of safety, achieving a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Seven airbags including front airbags, window bags, sidebags and driver’s kneebag work with Alfa Romeo’s Self Aligning Head Restraint system to ensure occupant safety.

The Alfa MiTo is being launched to rival the Mini. “The moment is right to introduce a new sporty compact to the sector,” says Lawrie Malatios. “Cool, young drivers will relish the choice and excitement that this new model – a real driver’s car – brings. Keen pricing, Alfa’s evocative heritage and the MiTo’s good looks mark it out as a genuine contender within this competitive sector.”