First look: Next-generation Alfa Spider surfaces

IT seems not long ago that Alfa Romeo sadly announced the passing of the Spider convertible. So its rebirth at the forthcoming Geneva motor show will come as something of a surprise to many.

In the metal, the next-generation Spider is a neatly proportioned yet slightly more conservative iteration of the front-drive format introduced with the previous version unveiled here in 1998.

At 1830mm wide, 4396mm long and 1367mm high – a little longer, wider and higher – the new Spider is clearly recognisable as successor to the old model from front or rear, but dispenses with the bold, sweeping profile view that once set it well apart from other sports convertibles.

In its place is a more chunky, carefully drawn two-door soft-top that will be available either with the 138kW 2.2-litre JTS four-cylinder, or the 3.2-litre JTS V6 which develops 195kW.

Most significantly, the 3.2-litre V6 version of the Spider will offer Alfa’s ‘Q4’ four-wheel drive system as an option to the front-wheel drive that will be standard on both V6 and four-cylinder models.

Inside, the company says the Spider is sumptuously furnished and well equipped with items such as dual-zone climate control as well as the usual steering wheel controls for the sound system and cruise control.

Suspension is by sports-tuned double wishbones at the front (MacPherson struts previously) and a multi-link arrangement at the rear, while Alfa Romeo’s Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is standard.

Like the 159 sedan, the Spider is claimed to enjoy a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

The new Spider is to go on sale in Australia in 2007, Alfa Romeo already stating that it will offer good value for money in its segment.

The previous model ranged from just over $50,000 to the mid $70,000s, which should give some sort of guide to how the new model will be placed.