The new Mitsubishi Lancer resembles the Alfa 156 in a lot of ways...

[Hooligan]

Is it just me or did Mitsubishi copy a lot of Alfa styling elements? For the first time in a long while, Mitsubishi has made a good looking sedan.

[PSk]

Nope.

All cars of similar periods follow current fashions ...
Pete

[dave_fonz_164]

Since the 156, all have started that trend, hence the Acura TSX, TL, Mazda 3, Audi's etc.....

[AlfaTango1]

Italian styling permeates other brands all the time. Many car companies steal away designers who have styled Italian brands recently. I think the Koreans were the first recognise this when Hyundai first came out with the Excel in the 80's.

[Azzurri GTV]

The Rear of the lancer looks like a cross between a 156 and a Supra.
Every car manafactor envy's italian design and would shell out big money for someone to give thier brand a new light.
Just look at Giorgetto Giugiaro he designed vehicles for Saab, BMW, Lexus, AMC etc...