Alfa Romeo's Bold 2027 Move: Will It Outclass The Iconic Porsche Cayenne
By 2027, Alfa Romeo aims to shake up the luxury SUV market with a new model set to take on one of Porsche's most prized possessions, the Cayenne. Aiming for a slice of the premium market, Alfa Romeo’s unique blend of heritage and innovative prowess indicates an exciting future for car enthusiasts worldwide.
The Strategic Decision
Alfa Romeo is at a crossroad, deciding between developing a Porsche Cayenne-rivaling SUV or perhaps taking a different turn with a compact hatchback. The marque's decision will depend significantly on market trends and segment profitability. The STLA Large platform, known for its versatility in both electric and combustion engines, is likely to underpin this ambitious project. This robust architecture supports a wide range of powertrains, making it a suitable candidate for vehicles aiming to dominate the luxury SUV landscape.
CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato strongly supports moving into a larger market segment. “The question is do we go up [in size]? And for me, the answer is yes: we have to go up,” said Imparato. He emphasized the brand's readiness, boasting the necessary platforms, engines, and software to push their limits.
Under the Hood
The new model will be built on the STLA Large platform, the backbone for several vehicles within Stellantis' vast portfolio. Known for its use in the Dodge Charger Daytona, the world's first electric muscle car, this platform also supports the new Jeep Wagoneer and likely the next Dodge Durango.
An electric powertrain is almost certain, but Alfa has kept the door open for combustion counterparts such as the Hurricane, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six from Dodge’s lineup. This flexibility is critical as the new SUV aims to target the spacious luxury offered by Porsche Cayenne, implying larger battery packs and advanced powertrains.
Design and Features
Imparato has shared that the design is complete and “striking”. However, a critical decision hinges on market sustainability—especially in Europe, where the demand for mid-size to large SUVs will determine the final go-ahead. Alfa remains watchful on whether the segment maintains the necessary volume and profitability.
Imparato added, “If the E-segment [in Europe] is maintained at the right level of volumes and profit pool, we can do [a large SUV] and it will be cool.”
The Alternative Route
If Alfa opts not to venture into the luxury SUV segment, a hot hatchback is another promising direction. The C-segment compact, exemplified by the Giulietta, once battled it out in a competitive space but faded against a backdrop crowded with the likes of the VW Golf. Now, aiming more upscale, Alfa's alternative hatchback would face luxury contenders like the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
STLA Medium Platform and Future Prospects
The STLA Medium platform offers another dimension of flexibility for potentially launching multiple models. Imparato’s ambition to revive iconic models like the GTV or an Alfetta, with the added prospect of a new Alfa Duetto sports car, depends on forthcoming trends and market demands.
Alfa plans to unveil a stunning new model by 2027 and roll it out to the market by 2028. Imparato remains cautious, stressing that strategies could change depending on the future profitability of SUVs. For the Alfisti (Alfa Romeo enthusiasts), SUVs remain a contentious issue, but Alfa is set on giving the consumers what they want.
“Why are you going SUV?” Imparato asked rhetorically. “Because you only buy SUVs, my friend, and I’m not a provider of work/life balance. I’m a provider of cars.”
As Alfa Romeo treads these strategic waters, it’s clear that the brand is poised to redefine its portfolio significantly. Whether it's a market-shaking SUV or a nimble hatchback, enthusiasts worldwide should eagerly anticipate what's next from this storied Italian automaker.
Source: Autocar