It’s official – the Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.4 TBi is one of just eight finalists in the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists / Wesbank Car of the Year for 2010. All the finalists will be put through their paces in a rigorous testing programme that takes place in February – the winner will then be announced at a glittering function on the 18 March. But win or lose, the fact that the Alfa Romeo MiTo has made it to the finalists’ list is in itself an outstanding achievement, as the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists could select from well over 100 all-new models that made their way onto our roads during 2009.

Alfa Romeo MiTo a hit in South Africa

The Alfa Romeo MiTo has been a success for the brand in South Africa with an average of 30 new MiTos per month finding new homes. This year, the MiTo range will be expanded with a 100 kW and 127 kW engine version (both revolutionary Multiair 1.4 turbo units). The 127 kW version will badged Quadrofoglio Verde and befitting its flagship status it will boast sportier styling, dynamic chassis mods plus a few other luxury add-ons. The newcomers are expected to debut in the 2nd quarter (April/May).

Of course, though, the really big news for Alfa Romeo in 2010 will be the launch of the much-anticipated Milano. This Golf-sized, five-door will set the proverbial cat amongst the hatchback pigeons thanks to its exquisite architecture and Multiair-based engine line-up. The SA line-up is not yet finalised but will most likely include two models at launch – a 127 kW 1.4 Turbo version and a range-topping 170 kW 1.8 Turbo Multiair (likely to be badged Quadrofoglio Verde). ETA is between 3rd & 4th quarter (October) – afterall we don’t want to steal any of the Soccer World Cup’s thunder!