Yahoo Autos Alfa Romeo Abandoned a New Spider to Focus on Crossovers
Four years ago, we were treated to the wonderful news that the beloved Alfa Romeo Spider (Series 3 example pictured) would make a comeback on the same chassis that underpinned the upcoming Miata. Two years ago, Alfa decided to give the Miata-based roadster project to Fiat, opting instead to do an all-new Spider based on the Giulia sedan's platform. But now, it seems even that plan has been abandoned.
That's per an Automotive News report which says the Giulia-based roadster has been cancelled in favor of more crossovers. Sad news, certainly, but hardly surprising given Alfa's challenges in bringing a new, rear-drive sedan to market.
Even with a rear-drive platform in place and a decent parts bin to work with, a new Spider simply isn't worth the investment for Alfa when crossovers are all the rage. Alfa's first crossover, dubbed the Stelvio, is expected to debut before the end of 2016, and a larger crossover following shortly afterwards.
Automotive News also reports that Alfa has cancelled a larger, Giulia-based sedan to compete with the BMW 5-Series. Fiat Chrysler Chief Technical Officer Harald Wester previously stated his desire for such a car, but admitted that it too would take a back seat to crossovers.
We can't blame Alfa Romeo for focusing on cars that will sell in large quantities, but it's odd to see such an enthusiast brand making non-enthusiast decisions. Who knows? Maybe the Giulia and Stelvio will be surprise hits, giving Alfa the ability to build a low-volume sports car more in line with its heritage.
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