Alfa Romeo MiTo - Prove varie motorizzazioni

[Beppe_QV]

Non si capisce bene in quanto l'inglese, a volte, ha delle sfumature che solo una conoscenza approfondita della lingua riesce a percepire appieno.

In ogni caso, MiTo ha uno sterzo decisamente buono, non è affatto vuoto in mezzo e tantomeno impreciso. Non mi trovo assolutamente con certe parole che ho letto nell'articolo di Autocar.

Nel clinic test la Mito 1.4 Tjet 155cv, al capitolo guida, ha sopravanzato, senza patema alcuno, la Mini Cooper 1.6 e il tempo sul giro fatto registrare a Balocco è migliore sia della Mini Cooper S che della Grande Punto Abarth.

[Regazzoni]

Scusa ma quale sarebbe il secondo giornale che farebbe esattamnte le stesse critiche di autocar?

Articolo + editoriale, sempre di Autocar.

Ma parlano di "vuoto" o del fatto che segue troppo le asperità?

Proprio non sono riuscito a tradurre...

Parlano di "dullness around the straight-ahead" e "rather woolly at the straight-ahead". Dull è debole, poca sensibile, poco preciso ; wooly è vago, confuso.

E visto che parlano di guida in linea retta, la mia traduzione interpretazione è leggero, vuoto.

[naranhito]

OverviewDesigned in Milan, built in Turin (Torino), the Alfa Romeo Mito three-door supermini is the first entry-level Alfa in a long while. There's an added meaning to its name, too: 'mito' also suggests the Italian for myth, or legend, and indeed, this little hatchback comes with an extensive back-story and heritage to live up to. Remember Alfa's last contender of this size, the Alfasud?

The Fiat Group is pulling out all the stops to set the Mito in its context as an Alfa Romeo. It was, in fact, designed by a Argentinian, its basic underpinnings (shared with the Fiat Grande Punto) have been derived from a joint venture with GM, and that name was suggested by a German magazine competition-winner, but there's no way this car could be anything other than an Italian product.

From the snooty shield-shaped front grille, down its flush-doored side to its high-tailing rear with concentric circular LED lights, it's unmistakably an Alfa, but a modern-day one at that - it's no retro pastiche of the Alfasud, as it so easily could have been. Instead, it's a friendly, distilled-down essence of the 8C Competizione super-coupe, and more forward-looking than, say, the BMW Mini (arguably one of its most significant rivals) or Fiat's reborn 500.

The Mito will arrive in the UK in right-hand drive form in January 2008, with three petrol and two diesel engines on offer. The petrols are a normally-aspirated 1.4 16v (95bhp) and turbocharged 120bhp and 155bhp versions of that engine, the diesels the ultra-economical 1.3 and new 120bhp 1.6 JTD Multijet units, familiar from other Fiat Group models. A 230bhp, 1750cc Mito GTA will follow later next year, and options including a double-clutch sequential-shift gearbox are also on the way. Specifications for the UK are badged Turismo, Lusso and Veloce, and prices will start from £10,975 (1.4 16v Turismo).

Reliability and Quality

Never an Alfa Romeo strong point, and despite the company's pleas that it is overhauling its notoriously poor dealer service network, we can't help but be dubious until there's evidence to prove otherwise. Still, the Mitos seen so far look well put-together, with excellent paintwork, a nicely-finished interior with quality plastics, and good attention to detail.

The Grande Punto (launched 2006) has thus far been relatively unproblematic, too, and many of the Mito's components, engines and systems have already been tried and tested in other Fiat Group models. The main cause for concern is the electronica - DST, DNA and so forth.

On the road

The Alfa Romeo Mito is more than just a rebodied, rebadged Grande Punto. Its steering, braking and suspension set-ups are all unique, and it has bespoke systems including Alfa's Q2 differential, the so-called 'DNA' system, a selectable choice of settings (Dynamic, Normal, All-Weather) for throttle and transmission response, power steering assistance, suspension firmness and stability control, and DST (Dynamic Steering torque) which gives a counter-steering effect to combat oversteer and help maintain a smooth course through a fast corner.

OK, it's not an Alfasud - but no way could the Mito compare to that car in its handling, given the modern-day demands for crash safety, class standards for cabin-space, comforts and refinement, and all the subsequent added bulk and ballast. The 1.4 turbo (155bhp) tested so far is about as lightweight-feeling as it could be, given its 1145kg kerbweight. It's well-balanced, with great grip and a low centre of gravity, and its clever suspension (with inner coil-over-springs set within the shock absorbers) ensures flat cornering without roll or wallow.

The six-speed gearbox is easy to use, and the brakes sharp. Only the steering is a let-down: as with BMW's Active Drive, DST is an acquired taste, and the electrical assistance overdone. The Mito's nose can feel floaty and disconnected, making it hard to place on a corner and easy to drift off-line; the system seems unnecessarily complex, and it does not enhance the overall handling experience.

The 'DNA' system is a little more fulfilling; the 155bhp/170 lb ft 1.4 turbo Mito is clearly quick and strong, but not particularly inspiring in 'Normal' mode. Select 'Dynamic' via the centre console-mounted switch, however, and it's as if the car wakes up and takes a shot of caffeine: there's a marked difference in the throttle response in particular, and an extra overboost effect for the turbo, though the steering's sadly no better. Official performance figures for this model are a top speed of 134mph and a 0-62mph time of eight seconds.

Driving position in this Alfa is good, though it may take adjustment; the Mito is best experienced with the driver's seat set low, for sporting feel as well as for an unobstructed view out and better headroom under the relatively low, curved roof.

The dashboard and dials are clear and prettily-styled, and while there's a lot of information to be disseminated, the graphics of the trip computer and suchlike are relatively easy to decipher. The audio system's a bit fiddly, though.

Safety and Security

The Grande Punto scored five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests, and Alfa should emulate that result with the Mito. Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and window airbags, are fitted as standard, as well as items such as whiplash-reducing active head restraints, wraparound seats giving a high level of support in an impact, daytime running lights (bi-xenon beams optional), Isofix child seat mounting points and seatbelt pretensioners.

Besides advanced ABD anti-lock brakes, there's the vehicle dynamic control system, integrating stability control, engine torque/traction control, anti-skid regulation and cornering brake control, as well as the extra grip and traction afforded by the 'All-Weather' mode, hill start assist and the Q2 differential, which distributes torque between the front wheels on a bend to increase the traction of the outer wheel.

Running Costs

The Alfa Romeo Mito isn't the cheapest supermini around, but it should hold its value well, and Alfa is packing in some added-value equipment deals. The 1.4 turbo (155bhp) gives 43.5mpg, a good enough return to justify going for this more-fun model over the non-turbo 1.4 (47.9mpg), though the diesels will still be the most economical. The 1.6 JTD 120 does 58.9mpg and the 1.3 JTD will be more frugal still.

Carbon dioxide outputs are a relatively tax-friendly 153g/km (1.4 turbo 155bhp), 138g/km (1.4 16v) and 126 g/km (1.6 JTD 120). Though no figures have been released yet for this model, the 1.3 JTD is expected to slip into tax band B with an output of under 120g/km. Bear in mind, however, that the hotter turbo models do encourage spirited driving, and Dynamic mode selected, you're unlikely to see anywhere near the ideal-scenario official mpg figures...

In Italy, Fiat is offering a lower-spec, 78bhp entry-level model charmingly badged Junior - a name from the past. It's also sewn up some deals with Italian insurers for all-in finance and insurance packages for young drivers, some using 'black box' satellite tracking technology (part of the Blue&Me communications system) on a pay-as-you-go basis. This hasn't been confirmed for the UK as yet, however.

Comfort and Equipment

Alfa Romeo thinks a number of Mito buyers will be people downsizing from larger vehicles (the now redundant-looking and near-obsolete 147, perhaps) and the car's refinement is certainly convincing enough. Sound-proofing is much better than the Punto's, the ride is generally good - even with the larger wheel/tyre combinations - and the higher-spec models' upholstery and trim reflect that of larger Alfas, including (optional) high-quality leather sports seats which wouldn't shame a 159-class car.

At 4.06m long, 1.44m tall and 1.72m wide, the Mito isn't the largest car in its class, and rear legroom is limited. The sloping roofline restricts rear headroom, too, and tall adults will find it a squeeze.

There's a choice of a two-seat or three-seat split/folding rear bench layout. The 270-litre boot is deep but narrow, with a small and high loading aperture, and the back seats do not fold completely flat even with the head rests removed and the bases tipped forwards. There are far more practical superminis out there - but then who ever bought an Alfa for its boot-space? This is the company that made an estate car (156 Sportwagon) with less load capacity than the equivalent saloon, and don't mention the boot of the Brera...

Equipment levels in the UK-spec cars include all the necessaries. Entry-level Turismo models get air conditioning, all the systems including DNA and Q2, a CD/MP3 player, Lusso models add front fog lights, 16" alloys, chrome-effect window sills and chrome-edged headlights, and Veloce versions have satin-effect headlamp trim, 17" alloys, a rear spoiler and sports bumper, white-lit instrument dials and red-painted brake calipers plus the Blue&Me Bluetooth phone kit, internet access and sat nav system.

Also on offer are options such as a Bose sound system, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, seven different seat trims, five alloy wheel designs, different headlamp frames, a black-painted roof, chrome, black or grey door mirrors and ten paint shades, giving plenty of scope for personalisation. We'll have the dark metallic red '8C' paint, please.

Used Value

The Mito is very desirable, and as a great-looking yet relatively cheap-to-run supermini, we expect it to sell well.

It should pick up Italian car enthusiasts who find the Fiat 500 just that bit too small (or too twee), petrolheads looking for a small car with a bit of sporting pedigree, and downsizers who still want to be seen in something stylish - and it may well be next year's most fashionable small car, given the ubiquity of the Mini. This will translate to the used market; expect residual (resale) values to be strong, and much better than those traditionally returned by Alfas.

Alfa Romeo Mito (2008-) | Car Review | Road Test | 4car | Channel 4

[<<Scarface>>]

Complimentoni!

Reliability and Quality

Never an Alfa Romeo strong point, and despite the company's pleas that it is overhauling its notoriously poor dealer service network, we can't help but be dubious until there's evidence to prove otherwise. Still, the Mitos seen so far look well put-together, with excellent paintwork, a nicely-finished interior with quality plastics, and good attention to detail.

The Grande Punto (launched 2006) has thus far been relatively unproblematic, too, and many of the Mito's components, engines and systems have already been tried and tested in other Fiat Group models. The main cause for concern is the electronica - DST, DNA and so forth.

"affibabilità e qualità: non ne sappiamo nulla ma mettiamo tre stelle perchè le Alfa di solito fanno un po' cagare. Beh, la punto va bene e questa sembra fatta bene ma non vuol dire nulla. Ci saranno problemi con l'elettronica, noi già lo sappiamo, dato che questi pazzi hanno messo ESP e questo cavolo di DNA che non sappiamo cosa sia ma di certo darà problemi."

Ho tradotto bene?? :lol:

E questi si spacciano per giornalisti?

E poi ci chiediamo perchè le italiane non vendono in inghilterra? Gli abbiamo fatto radicare (colpa nostra - come italici) simili pregiudizi che semi-stroncano l'affidabilità dell'auto senza manco averla provata per più di due ore se va bene.......

Per il resto ne parlano bene, ma a leggere certe frasi mi si accapona la pelle.

Modificato 26 Giugno 2008 da <<Scarface>>

[Cosimo]

in generale tutto l'articolo ha una vena un po' ironica, pur riconoscendo le doti dell'auto.

Relativamente alla rete di assistenza, sinceramente, non mi sento di biasimare poi tanto quello che dicono. All'estero non mi ricordo di aver visto molti concessionari o un'officine degni di tal nome, per cui temo che molte persone prima di acquistare un prodotto del genere potrebbero tener conto di questo problema

[Regazzoni]

Stavo giusto leggendo quella parte: non così tragica, in effetti.

Parafrasando: Alfa non ha brillato per qualità, affidabilità e rete distributiva/assistenza.

Questo lo teniamo presente fino a prova contraria.

Però la Mito l'abbiamo vista costruita bene. In più è basata su Punto che si sta dimostrando come non affetta da problemi.

Questo e le molte componenti di Mito già stracollaudate sulle altre auto del gruppo fanno ben sperare.

Le preoccupazioni rimangono sull'elettronica. (un qualche dubbio dovevano pur insinuarlo, nonostante non sia un difetto tipico delle italiane dell'ultimo decennio )

[Cosimo]

nel complesso mi pare che (autobild a parte.. ma il suo valore è paragonabile a quello di di eva 3000) gli stranieri siano stati ben impressionati. Il loro giudizio tutto sommato mi pare equilibrato.

Mi preoccupa però questa storia dello sterzo un po' ballerino sui rettilinei. Non che la 147 o la 156 fossero poi incrociatori da autostrada..

[superkappa125]

Vorrei ricordarti che un concessionario fiat ha appena vinto il premio ADAC in germania per la qualità... Comunque non so come sia la situazione per il resto, ma forse non è così tremenda come (si diverte?) a dipingerla la stampa...

Comunque i pregiudizi sono tanti e molto forti, vedi la ruggine nell'articolo sulla delta, sta a noi sfornare prodotti credibili. Io credo che sia Alfa che Lancia abbiano sfornato due signore auto, che si meritano tutto il successo, in particolare la Delta.

Comunque la mini rimane una rivale da non sottovalutare, anche perchè non credo di aver mai provato un'auto tanto divertente. Sta all'alfa fare un bel lavoro di marketing...

[Cosimo]

episodio sporadico temo..

pensa alle concessionarie tedesche in italia. Le concessionarie italiane all'estero purtroppo non sono la stessa cosa

[superkappa125]

episodio sporadico temo..

pensa alle concessionarie tedesche in italia. Le concessionarie italiane all'estero purtroppo non sono la stessa cosa

Beh ma alla fin fine nemmeno le concessionarie italiane in italia non sono granchè! Io vedo quella alfa qui a Firenze, penso sia una delle più brutte che abbia mai visto, va beh che forse non vende granchè, ma è proprio brutta, rispetto alla BMW non c'è storia. Se non altro quelle Lancia e Fiat (soprattutto quelle del gruppo Brandini) sono meglio...