Alfa Romeo is preparing themselves to be re-introduced into the American market, and they are looking to be taken serious. The company is taking aim at the luxury market currently owned by German brands like BMW and Mercedes Benz. To be viewed as contenders in that segment, they have decided it would be wise to introduce some new RWD models to offset their current FWD only lineup. This blogger tends to agree. That would definitely set Alfa Romeo apart from other higher end import brands. Alfa hasn’t had a rear wheel drive vehicle since the 90’s with their 75 sedan and cabriolet. This should all change next year when the company launches the sexy new 8C Cometizione sports coupe (pictured above).

Marketing manager Renzo Barbirato admitted that the 8C will only be the beginning of an exciting new era for Alfa. A RWD flagship sedan called the 169 will bow towards the years end of 2009, helping bring some utility to the lineup. In fact, the only car to remain FWD will be the entry-level Junior hatch, due to cost limitations. We don’t see that as being a bad thing though. With a hot hatch in Alfa’s lineup, we could see a battle of the brands on the horizon. Volkswagen, Volvo, Saturn, and Alfa each have or will have a performance hatchback in the market.

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[Source: Motor Authority]