Alfa Romeo Giulia: 2015 L.A. Auto Show

The anticipated new 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio made its North American debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Pricing has not yet been announced, but it will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

Whether the Giulia can propel Alfa to those lofty heights remains to be seen.

Alfa Romeo did it at the Frankfurt Motor Show and they are doing it at the LA Auto Show again.

Now, if only FCA can hurry and get this auto into the market without any more delays.

It’s been years since we’ve had a mainstream Alfa Romeo performance vehicle in the USA market.

Powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V-6, the Quadrifoglio puts out a whopping 505-hp and 443 lb.-ft. of torque, by far the most in its class and encroaching on supercar territory. That should be good for 0-60 miles per hour in around 3.8 seconds with a short-throw six-speed manual gearbox. This engine will come with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ [NYSE:FCAU] MultiAir2 variable valve timing system as well as exhaust gas recirculation technology. There is extensive lightweighting on the Giulia Quadrifoglio with the carbon fiber hood, roof, active front splitter and driveshaft. In addition to the additional horsepower, the Audi RS7 Performance will have special 21-inch wheels, a selector for the driving mode on the steering wheel, sports-designed bumpers and a matte titanium-looking trim.

The driver’s “office” is upholstered in premium leather and Alcantara with carbon fiber, aluminum and accent stitching used as highlights. A rotary pad offers a gesture recognition system, allowing the driver to interact with the screen simply by moving fingers on the pad.

The Giulia Quadrifoglio utilizes LEDs at the back and an integrated diffuser that contributes to downforce, stability and the sedan’s impressive 0.32 coefficient of drag. The Giulia Quadrifoglio will have forward collision warning at all speeds, adaptive cruise control that includes full-stop capability, and lane departure warning with return correction.