Alfa Romeo unveiled the next-generation B-segment SUV “Milano” to the world on April 10, 2024. However, it was discovered that the use of this name was prohibited by Italian government law. Therefore, it was decided to change the name of the car to “Alfa Romeo Junior.”
Alfa Romeo “Milan” name change controversy
- Reason for name change: Due to regulations from the Italian government, the use of the name “Milano” was not permitted.
- New car name: Alfa Romeo Junior
On April 16, 2024, Alfa Romeo’s new SUV, the Milano, was forced to change its name to the Alfa Romeo Junior due to trademark issues. While there are concerns that this name change may affect sales strategies and brand image, Alfa Romeo is confident that the Alfa Romeo Junior will still be an attractive vehicle. While this is disappointing for Milano fans, it will be interesting to see how the new name, Alfa Romeo Junior, is received.
Alfa Romeo’s new “Milan” is now called “Junior”
Alfa Romeo’s new Milan (Junior) is the brand’s third SUV, following the Stelvio and Tonale. The Milan (Junior) is built on the familiar CMP2 platform used by the Stellantis Group across various brands and models, including the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka, Fiat 600, Peugeot 2008, and Jeep Avenger. Customers can choose from two electric powertrains or a 48-volt mild-hybrid gasoline option.
About the exterior
Alfa Romeo has finally unveiled its long-awaited subcompact SUV, the Milan (Junior). The Milan (Junior) represents the brand’s first foray into the electric vehicle segment and joins the Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan and the large crossovers Stelvio and Tonale as the smallest offerings in the brand’s lineup. At 4,170mm long, 1,780mm wide, and 1,500mm tall, the Alfa Romeo Milan (Junior) fits perfectly into Europe’s B-SUV segment. Its length is 86mm longer than a Jeep Avenger and comparable to a Fiat 600, yet 134mm shorter than a Peugeot 2008.
Alfa Romeo’s Milano Junior incorporates the Biscione brand’s latest design ethos, aiming to appeal to a new generation of consumers. While not as flashy as the larger Tonale, the Milano Junior has an appealing aesthetic, with complex shapes and bold details.
The front end features elongated matrix LED headlights with slim intakes and dark trim, while the new Scudetto grille is partially covered by a fully electric version, signalling the dawn of a new era. The front bumper takes inspiration from the Quadrifoglio versions of the Giulia and Stelvio, featuring large intakes and an integrated splitter.
The Milano Junior also has a distinctive profile, with its muscular rear shoulders, large wheels and seamless rear glass, which, despite its steep angle, doesn’t belong in coupe-SUV territory. From behind, the car also sports a “Kamtail” finish reminiscent of the Giulia TZ.
About the interior
The interior features a digital cockpit boasting dual 10.25-inch displays. Alfa Romeo’s signature touches include the infotainment system and Canocchiale digital instrument cluster graphics, which set it apart. The Sport package includes optional Alcantara-covered Sabelt seats, Spiga vinyl and fabric upholstery and a leather steering wheel. Luggage space is 400 litres, and a handy cable storage compartment is located under the bonnet on Elettrica models.
About safety equipment
In terms of safety, the Milan (Junior) offers Level 2 ADAS, on par with competitors in the subcompact SUV segment.
About the grade
Milano’s lineup includes Ellettrica, Ellettrica Veloce and Ibrida.
About the specifications
BEV model
The Milano aims to be the sportiest model in its highly competitive class, especially in the flagship Ellettrica Veloce trim, which boasts a 237hp electric motor and a sharper chassis setup.
The top-of-the-line Milano Ellettrica Veloce is a flagship model equipped with a single 237 hp (240 PS / 177 kW) electric motor, rivaling the upcoming Abarth 600e and Lancia Ypsilon HF. Power is transferred to the front axle with the aid of a Torsen mechanical self-locking differential and a set of high-performance 20-inch tires. The Veloce’s exclusive chassis setup boasts the “most direct steering in the segment” with a 14.6 ratio. The sport suspension, lowered by 25 mm compared to other Milano (Junior) models, is complemented by front and rear anti-roll bars. Additionally, the front brakes feature larger 380 mm discs and four-piston monobloc calipers. Alfa Romeo claims the top-of-the-line Milano (Junior) will offer class-leading driving dynamics similar to those of the discontinued Giulietta and Mito hatchbacks.
The entry-level Ellettrica produces a more subdued 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS), is powered by a 54 kWh lithium-ion battery, has a WLTP range of 255 miles (410 km), and supports charging speeds of up to 100 kW. These specs are in line with nearly all Stellantis-branded EVs of a similar size.
Internal combustion engine (ICE) mild hybrid model
The internal combustion engine, due to arrive in 2025, will be a turbocharged 1.2-liter gasoline engine with a maximum output of 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), mated to a 48V battery and a 28 hp (21 kW) electric motor integrated into a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Power will be similar to that of the upcoming Jeep Avenger 4Xe, and both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains will be available.
News Release
https://www.stellantis.jp/news/20240416_alfaromeo_junior
Alfa Romeo
