The launch of Alfa Romeo’s crucial new Giulia has been delayed, as Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is unhappy with the styling of the BMW 3-series rival.
Auto News quotes Alfa sources claiming the Giulia’s launch has been pushed back from late 2012 to mid-2013 at the earliest due to manufacturing issues and Marchionne’s vetoing of the original designs.
The delay to the saloon and estate is significant as the models were supposed to spearhead Alfa’s comeback to the US, which is also now on hold.
According to the sources, Marchionne has also turned down designs for the Giulia’s sister cars, the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger replacements.
It is also still unclear where the Giulia will be built. Marchionne has said the range could be built in either Italy or the US.
Thanks to: Autocar