The 2014 Alfa Romeo MiTo
Suzanne Keane gets behind the wheel of the new Alfa MiTo and finds the supermini is better than ever
What is it? Alfa Romeo’s baby MiTo has been revamped for 2014 and improvements include a higher specification, new interior and centre console and an upgrade to the innovative 105bhp TwinAir engine which has gained 20bhp. A new 1.4 TB Multiair 140bhp Petrol engine will be available shortly and will include a twin dry clutch transmission as standard.
First impressions of the Alfa Romeo MiTo? The MiTo is without a doubt the most stylish in its class. The 2014 model is available in new colours including an unusual Matte Magnesio Grey finish which would be my first choice. The exterior has also been treated to a new front grille, titanium grey headlight and taillight surrounds and tinted rear windows.
What about the interior?Inside you’re treated to a new dashboard and a 5” touchscreen “infotainment” system, air conditioning and leather on the steering wheel & gear knob as standard. The interior design screams Alfa Romeo and is what really makes the MiTo stand out.
And on the road? Traction and stability control come as standard so the MiTo does feel quite stable on the road. We tested the 875cc 2 cylinder Twin Air Turbo. It comes with the Alfa “DNA” system which has 3 separate settings for driving – Normal, Dynamic and All-Weather. These settings adjust the power steering, engine and traction control to suit. On the Isle of Man TT Mountain Course Dynamic was the only option worth trying but I’m sure in a city environment Normal would be adequate.
Alfa Romeo MiTo Highlights include a revamped interior
MiTo and the city? The MiTo is an ideal city car if you’re looking for something stylish and a little different. The twin-air engine is a bit noisy but this isn’t a car for someone who likes to blend in to the crowd so I’m sure attracting some attention wouldn’t be a drawback. 270 litres of boot space and 67.3 mpg make it an ideal city run-around.
How much? Irish pricing is as yet unconfirmed.
How Safe? With a 5 star Euro NCAP rating and 7 airbags (including one for the driver’s knees) the MiTo scored 36 for Adult Occupant safety when it was launched.
What about my options? There are 4 levels of trim available – Sprint, Distinctive, Sportiva and Quadrifoglio Verde (Q.V.). The Distinctive trim will get you 17” Alloys, Cruise Control, Parking Sensors and an arm rest in the front, Sportiva includes 18” Alloys and QV steering wheel and handbrake level (black leather with green stitching) while the Q.V. model will upgrade you to some eye-catching red 4-piston Brembo brake callipers (a girlracers dream), SDC active suspension and sports seats.
3 words to describe the Alfa Romeo MiTo: Cute; Quirky; Eye-catching
For more information about the MiTo check out the Alfa Romeo website or facebook page
Suzanne Keane
4th April, 2014
