2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA

While there is an outside chance that Alfa Romeo will return to the U.S. through a deal with Chrysler as early as 2010, it doesn't appear that the 2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA is part of that plan. It's a shame, because this diminutive three-door hatchback is primed to give the likes of the Mini John Cooper Works edition a run for its money.


The stylish MiTo looks every inch an Alfa Romeo from its vertical grille shell to the fender vents that echo those found on the 8C Competizione supercar. The rear of the car features a large diffuser and prominent twin tailpipes. That aggressive look is carried over to the front of GTA, which features larger intakes than the stock model. These openings are needed to feed air to the turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine beneath the hood. That powerplant cranks out 240 bhp, which is delivered to the front wheels.


The MiTo GTA also sports a lower ride height and an active suspension featuring real-time adjustment of shock valving to control body roll and oscillation. Another feature is the Alfa D.N.A. system that has three modes: sport, normal and all weather, which adjust the level of stability and traction control intervention as well as steering feel to match driving conditions.


The sporting nature of the GTA is reflected in its interior design that features aluminum-accented pedals and a scuff plate emblazoned with the GTA logo, plus revised instrument graphics, an ergonomically designed sport steering wheel and rubber floor inserts embossed with the same pattern as the tread on the specially designed Pirelli tires.