Alfa Romeo has finally provided clarity on the long-awaited successor to the Giulia, confirming that the new model will debut in 2026 as a crossover rather than a sedan. This marks a significant departure from the brand’s previous plans, which envisioned a fully electric replacement.
Confirming statements made almost a year ago, Alfa Romeo’s strategy shift sees the next-generation Giulia following the all-new Stelvio, which is expected to be unveiled in July 2025. The change in body style and drivetrain options is a response to evolving market trends and customer preferences.
Alfa Romeo Multi-Energy Approach
Initially expected to align with Stellantis’ vision of an all-electric European lineup by 2027, the Giulia will now feature both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) variants. Positioned above the Tonale and Junior, the upcoming Giulia will continue Alfa Romeo’s legacy of high-performance vehicles while embracing a more versatile approach.
Alfa Romeo’s North American division chief, Chris Feuell, explained that the decision to maintain ICE models stems from the brand’s commitment to dealers and customers. “We’ve got 110 dealers in our U.S. network, and it would be very challenging for them to survive with a BEV-only portfolio,” Feuell told Automotive News.
Plans for Giulia and Stelvio
Unlike the Giulia, the second-generation Stelvio will debut solely as an EV based on the Stellantis STLA Large platform, which supports both electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Alfa Romeo’s new CEO, Santo Ficili, confirmed that both models would share the same underpinnings but feature distinct body styles.
“We will launch the new Stelvio at the end of 2025. And in 2026, we will launch the new Giulia. [Giulia’s] platform will be the same as that of the Stelvio. So, you can imagine what kind of vehicle we will offer,” Ficili told L’Argus.
V6 Engine to Stay
In a move that will expand Stellantis’ crossover range—alongside the Peugeot 408 and Citroën C5 X—Alfa Romeo has confirmed that the next Giulia will retain the 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This decision aligns with the European Union’s recent relaxation of certain emissions requirements, allowing the powertrain to remain compliant beyond 2025.
The V6, currently found in the Quadrifoglio Verde (QV) versions of the Giulia and Stelvio, will likely be updated to meet the latest regulations while delivering the thrilling performance Alfa Romeo enthusiasts expect.
No Plans for a New Giulietta
While Alfa Romeo is focusing on expanding its SUV and crossover lineup, the brand has ruled out a revival of the Giulietta hatchback. Ficili acknowledged the car’s historical significance but stated that market demand has shifted toward SUVs. “Honestly, at the moment, I don’t see a future for a Giulietta because there is no demand,” he told L’Argus.
What to Expect Next
Final details regarding both the Giulia and Stelvio are still under wraps. However, with the Stelvio’s unveiling expected around mid-2025, further insights into Alfa Romeo’s new design direction and technology will likely emerge in the coming months.
Expected Features of the Next-Gen Alfa Romeo Giulia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Coupe-inspired crossover |
| Platform | Stellantis STLA Large |
| Powertrain Options | Electric & Internal Combustion (V6) |
| Expected Debut | 2026 |
| Predecessor | Sedan-style Giulia |
| Performance Model | Quadrifoglio variant with V6 engine |
| Market Position | Above Tonale and Junior |
| Sales Strategy | Multi-energy approach (EV & ICE) |
With Alfa Romeo embracing a flexible strategy, the next Giulia aims to capture a wider audience while maintaining the brand’s signature blend of performance, luxury, and Italian design flair. More details are expected to surface as the 2026 launch date approaches.
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