Auto Week-Alfa Romoeo at Geneva Auto Show

[RossT]

ALFA ROMEO

Production car: Alfa Romeo returns to four-wheel drive after a 10-year absence with its 156 Crosswagon. The Crosswagon is a 156 Sportwagon sitting on 17-inch wheels with ground clearance increased by 60mm. An aluminum bar has been added in the rocker area. Another change is black plastic and aluminum protectors in the lower parts of the front and rear bumpers.

Technology: The permanent 4x4 system debuting on the 156 Crosswagon includes three differentials. The central differential is a Torsen C, which continuously splits the torque between the front and the rear axle. The default setting of the 156 Crosswagon sends 60 percent of the torque to the rear axle. This is Alfa's first step toward a return to true rear-wheel drive. Graziano Trasmis-sioni, the Turin-based transmission specialist, developed this system. It will be extended to the restyled 147 later this year.

Talking point: Alfa Romeo Business Unit President Daniele Bandiera promised at the IAA in Frankfurt that the 8C Competizione would begin road testing after the Geneva show. Latest rumors suggest a limited run of 1,000 8Cs Competiziones selling for E140,000 per unit could be built, but there is no decision yet.