Santo Ficili confirms Quadrifoglio performance variants will continue with electrified powertrains exceeding 670hp.
Alfa Romeo will offer both electric and hybrid versions of its next-generation Giulia and Stelvio. The models arrive in 2027. CEO Santo Ficili cited global market variations.
The decision reflects uneven EV adoption across global markets, with Alfa Romeo hedging against infrastructure gaps that have slowed electric vehicle sales in several regions. Unlike BMW's commitment to 1,300hp electric M3 variants, Alfa Romeo maintains combustion engine options alongside battery power, according to Ficili's interview with Autocar, published April 2024.
Global Market Reality Check
Ficili told Autocar that Alfa Romeo must adapt to regional differences in EV readiness. "The world is not ready everywhere," he said, explaining the brand's multi-powertrain approach. "We need to find a way to satisfy the needs of our customers. What does this mean? It means BEV and it means all the other kinds of endothermic powertrains, so ICE, PHEV, BEV." The statement marks a departure from Alfa Romeo's original all-electric timeline. Industry restructuring across Europe has forced similar pivots at multiple brands, with manufacturers balancing regulatory pressure against consumer demand patterns that vary dramatically by country.
STLA Platform Adaptations
Both models will use Stellantis's STLA Large platform, originally designed for EVs but now supporting multiple powertrains. Entry versions get turbocharged 4-cylinder engines with mild-hybrid assistance. Plug-in hybrids combine a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder with rear-mounted electric motors. The platform switch required re-engineering work that delayed the original debut schedule by approximately 18 months. Vehicle dimensions will increase from current compact luxury positioning, with the Giulia moving up from BMW 3 Series competition to challenge larger sedans. The Stelvio similarly shifts from X3-class to compete with bigger SUVs. Production costs for the dual-powertrain strategy add an estimated 15-20% to development budgets compared to single-powertrain approaches.
Quadrifoglio Power Surge
Performance Quadrifoglio variants will exceed 670hp in both electric and plug-in hybrid configurations. Some development targets approach 1,000hp, though Alfa Romeo hasn't confirmed final specifications. The power figures contrast sharply with current Quadrifoglio models, which produce 505hp from twin-turbo V6 engines. Technology sharing with the latest Dodge Charger platform provides the foundation for the high-output systems. Chinese competitors like Zeekr already offer similar power levels in their European launches, pressuring traditional performance brands to match electrified output. The Quadrifoglio nameplate survives the transition, maintaining continuity with Alfa Romeo's racing heritage while adopting electric assistance.
Timeline Uncertainty
Alfa Romeo targets 2027 arrival for both models as 2028 model year vehicles, but the timeline lacks specific production start dates or market launch sequences. The company hasn't disclosed which regions receive which powertrain options first, creating uncertainty for dealers planning inventory. Unlike competitors who announce clear EV-first or hybrid-first rollout strategies, Alfa Romeo's approach suggests simultaneous availability that may prove logistically challenging. Manufacturing location remains unspecified, with Stellantis operating relevant production facilities in Italy, Canada, and the United States. The dual-powertrain strategy requires separate certification processes in multiple markets, adding regulatory complexity that could further delay certain variants. Final pricing structures for the different powertrain options also remain undisclosed.
The current Giulia and Stelvio will continue production through 2026 in the United States, providing an 18-month overlap period with the new generation. Quadrifoglio Collection special editions launched in 2024 serve as farewell models for the existing platform. Final V6 engine production ends in December 2026. The complete Alfa Romeo model history and specifications are catalogued in the Global Auto Index manufacturer database.
