Jeep has denied original reports that the video above acidentally showed the first glimpse of a Fiat-Jeep SUV in clay model form. The Fiat-Chrysler partnership will have a big impact on the Jeep brand, which is set to develop a crossover-SUV (called CUV) on the base of Fiat’s C-Evo platform.

Chrysler has stated that the clay model in the video is merely a past design study. It’s almost a shame really, as Autoblog.com at least was happy to see that plenty of “Jeep design cues” seemed to have been included. Which should be a note to Jeep that when it does build its Fiat-based SUV if it wants to keep the Jeep punters happy, it will still have to look like something the brand generally produces.

Chrysler’s statement was the following:

“While we certainly appreciate the interest, the clay model and sketches in the YouTube video represent past design studies, not the future of Jeep design. This and similar videos are targeted toward college students and the youth market in general, to build excitement about the Jeep brand, and to provide a glimpse into some of the processes we go through to create iconic Jeep vehicles.”

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According to the Fiat Group’s company plan, Alfa Romeo will introduce its first SUV ever in 2012, splashing out into a segment it has never previously entered. The Alfa SUV will be a compact model and will be based on the Alfa Giulietta compact platform, while assembly operations are likely to take place in a US Chrysler plant. The Alfa SUV will be mostly destined for the US market, but it should also appear in Europe to boost Alfa sales on its home continent.

To make an impact in the saturated SUV market that is the US, the Alfa Romeo SUV will have to be one sexy little well-priced offering. It will be about 450 cm long and at least 180 wide, therefore placing itself, in terms of size, between the BMW X1 and X3, and between the Audi Q3 and Q5. The Alfa C-SUV will have both petrol and diesel engine options, mostly with four cylinders, combined with all-wheel drive which will be developed with Jeep.

With the new C-EVO platform there will be more crossover between Jeep and Alfa models, with the new Patriot and Compass models being based on the Alfa platform. They will debut in 2013 and will share quite a few components with the new Alfa SUV, while in 2014 we should see another Alfa SUV developed, known only at this stage as the D-SUV.

Source | Automocionblog

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According to rumours, the Fiat C-Evo platform set to debut on the Alfa Romeo Milano will appear on future Jeep and Chrysler models. This is after indiscretions regarding Multiair engine technology and Chrysler assembly operations at Fiat Bertone facilities after the Fiat-Chrysler deal.

Apparently the first model that will be built on the platform will be a compact Jeep SUV, while Chrysler will use C-Evo on the new PT Cruiser and Sebring (the longer wheelbase C-Evo version). It’s even possible that the latter model will have a Lancia-branded Italian version. All new C-Evo Chrysler models should be using Multiair engines from 2011, with subsequent debuts from 2011 to 2012. We can’t help but wonder if there’s much in it for Fiat at this stage…

Source | Al volante via Autoblog.it

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Autocar is reporting on both the Alfa Romeo Milano and the Alfa Giulia models, which are set to replace the Alfa 147 and the Alfa 159 respectively. As initially suspected, both the new Alfa models will use the C-Evo platform currently employed on the Fiat Bravo.

The C-Evo (or C-Evoluzione) platform basically improves chassis and suspension performance, with a longer wheel base (hence the larger dimension of the Alfa Milano compared to the 147) and improved suspension. The platform has been designed to be flexible enough to adapt to different car designs and makes, meaning that re-engineering is reduced to a minimum.

Entry level Giulia models will have front wheel, with Q4 all-wheel drive being an option. Further options include the new DNA system included on the MiTo, and Active Roll Control. The Alfa Giulia should also be lighter than the 159.

Continue reading: Full details on new Alfa Romeo Milano and the Alfa Giulia

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If you are curious to see what midsize sedan will emerge from the alliance between Chrysler and Fiat, based on the FAT C-Evo platform, you may have a look at Area 75, a blog created by the talented Argentinian designer Jorge L. Fernández. There you will have the image above, but also his words on his intentions. He just does not mention why he chose to name the car Shadow. We just hope it is not because the car may be only a shadow of the future Alfa Romeo Milano and Fiat Bravo, the car that has served as the basis for Fernández’s creation.

Source: Area 75

Chrysler Shadow 2010

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Could this be the real look of the Alfa Romeo 149? The vehicle is set to replace the 147 and could be in dealerships in a year’s time. This new render from Omniauto is quite convincing, as it shows the added dimensions that the car will have in taking its place in the market.

The car’s name is still under discussion, though the historic “Giulia” tag has emerged again, despite having been attached to the 159 substitute as well. What is certain is that Alfa wants to go back to its names, rather than continuing with the current numerical attributes.

The front of this render reflects that of the Mito, inspired by the 8C, while the sides take on the look of the 159. We’re less convinced by the headlights, which look like a mix between the round style of the Mito, and the alungated 147 lights.

The new compact from Alfa will use the C-Evo platform, derived from the Fiat Bravo and the Lancia Delta. The engine range should include the 1.4 T-jet at 120 and 150 hp, with a possible future version of the 180hp, and the 1.6, 1.9 and 2.0 litre Multijets, with power ranging from 120 to 190hp. In the long term we should also see the GTA with the 1.8 litre Turbo, direct injection which could bring power up to around 265hp.

Source | Omniauto.it

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The highly anticipated Alfa Romeo 149 could bring to its debut the C-Evo platfrom, a modified version of that currently used on the Fiat Bravo and Lancia Delta. In fact, only the pedal area would be in line with the current base, while 90 percent would be completely new and planned with an eye on driving pleasure.

The C-Evo could also become the base for the longer version and heir to the 159, with a name such as Giulia, and also for the future SUV which will be the first for Alfa.

Source | Progetto940.it (thanks to FedericoOrigamiXilofono for the tip)

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