According to new rumours from Alfa Romeo employees, appearing on the Autopareri forum, the much-awaited Alfa Romeo 149/Milano could be subject to delays of a few months compared to the original date planned for its debut. The presentation of the 147 substitute will move from the third quarter this year (from June to September for both debut and sales start), to January 2010.

Around Alfa traps, they are apparently trying to avoid the debut in the midst of an economic crisis, of such an important model for the Alfa brand. The 149/Milano is expected to wait out the storm to avoid the risky business of a grand debut followed by limited sales.

New technical data has arrived online, revealing that the Alfa 149 should have identical measurements to the Bravo (435 cm long), with only the height at 143 cm coming in at 7cm less than the Fiat. Other interesting developments are underway, including a front McPherson suspension, reduced vehicle roll and an on-board control system.

The steering is set to have electro-hydraulic assistance with a 12:1 ratio, with a front wheel drive and Electronic Q2 commands, though an all wheel drive option is still on the cards. For the moment the Alfa 149 is likely to include four engine combinations: the 1.6L JTDm at 120hp, the 1.4L JTB Multiair at 135 or 165hp, the 2.0L JTDm at 170 or 220hp (likely to have all-wheel drive), and the 1.8L JTB at 230 or 265hp.

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It is with the new Alfa Romeo 149 that Alfa hopes to be back in grand style in 2009, but for the moment, until any official debut, we have to content ourselves with these spy shots of the new 149.

It’s difficult to determine any definite aspects from these pics, and some elements seem derived from the Bravo. The rear spoiler is the most interesting element, raising some questions on the overall look of the car, and a departure from previous classic styles.

Source | Caradvice (Thanks to Brixia Fidelis)

Continue reading: Alfa Romeo 149: spy shots

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