Sexy Alfa Romeo MiTo debuts at motor show

The Alfa Romeo MiTo has been revealed at the 2008 British International Motor Show.

Surrounded by larger and more expensive models on the stand, the Alfa Romeo MiTo stood proud in classic Alfa Romeo red paintwork.

The first small Alfa Romeo for 35 years, the supermini caused a stir with its baby Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione supercar looks.

View images of the new Alfa Romeo MiTo at the 2008 British motor show

It features the same paintwork, similar round and chrome ringed headlight and taillights, and (albeit smaller) telephone-dial alloy wheels.

Other design features include frameless side windows, flared wheelarches and the traditional Alfa Romeo triangular grille.

And the car will be safe as well as stylish, with seven airbags included as standard and electronic safety devices to help prevent skids.

Engines on offer will include three 1.4-litre petrol engines with 95bhp, 120bhp and 155bhp and two diesel engines: a 1.3-litre and 1.6-litre with 90bhp and 120bhp respectively.

It will be the first car in its class to offer a system Alfa Romeo calls ‘DNA’, which adjusts the way the car drives at the touch of a button.

Drivers can choose between dynamic, normal and all-weather modes, altering the steering, engine response, brakes, suspension and gearbox to give the car enhanced feedback (dynamic) or a more relaxed ride (normal).

View images of the new Alfa Romeo MiTo at the 2008 British motor show

The Alfa Romeo MiTo goes on sale in the UK early next year with prices starting at £10,975 for the entry level 1.4-litre Turismo with 95bhp and rising to £14,975 for the range-topping and sporty 1.4-litre 155bhp Veloce.

Check out the Auto Trader British International Motor Show microsite for more news, images and videos from the event.

Check out the new Alfa Romeo MiTo in action: