Alexandre
The Alfa Romeo Junior, unveiled in April 2024, has already booked over 10,000 orders and one of the key elements of this success is strong interest in hybrid versions. According to information confirmed by Alfa Romeo, 75 % of orders are for hybrid models.
Indeed, although the 156-hp 100 % electric version attracted around 25 % buyers, the majority of orders are for the thermal hybrid model 136 hp. This choice is largely explained by the fact that the significant price difference Alfa Romeo Junior starts at €29,500while the is proposed at €38,500. In a market where consumers are price-sensitive, this difference weighs heavily in the final decision.
The more affordable thermal hybrid remains the preferred choice.. Although electrification is at the heart of Alfa Romeo's future strategy, these initial results show that the hybrid combustion engine still has a dominant place in the market, particularly in the B-SUV segments. A further demonstration that could push Alfa Romeo to offer a hybrid range for its next models.
Let's also remember that rivals of the electric Junior 100 % are few and far between in this segment: one Volvo EX30 only available in electric, at the same price as the junior electric, and selling quite well. with almost 6,700 units in August 2024 and 7,266 in September 2024, is the exception, and a Smart #1 that doesn't appear in the top 10 of the Jato Dynamics ranking. All in all, sales of the Junior Veloce 280 hp we tested will probably remain marginal...
The success of Alfa Romeo Junior will therefore most certainly be releasing a version of its thermal hybrid.the most pragmatic solution for the majority of buyers.
They're going to feel funny when the gearbox on their PureToc fails... and it's going to happen fast...
It proves that non-Alfa enthusiasts are ordering the Junior Ibrida, because an Alfa Romeo with a PureTech engine takes some doing.
Electric models can be great to drive (and the Junior Veloce certainly is), but there's still the problem of price for some buyers, and practicality (range and lack of recharging facilities).
The automotive market is not yet ripe for all-electric vehicles.
At Stellantis we've finally understood that all-electric doesn't work, but it took a long time! Tavares has a real problem: he has fixed ideas and hasn't understood that it's the customer who chooses what type of car he wants! For the moment, he wants electric cars, but as a possible choice, not an imposed one;
Let's hope that for the launches of the future Stelvio and Giulia, Stellantis has got the message!
By then, Tavarès will have left the group's management, and for me that's excellent news!
Yes, price is one thing, but Alfisti who have driven a petrol Mito or Giulietta don't want battery-powered cars.
I'm an Alfa ambassador and most people agree with me.
But it's good for the company to sell the Junior in 2 versions: Hybrid and battery-powered... it's up to Europe to decide...
For my part, I have a Giulia 200 petrol and a GTV Twin Spark and I keep them as long as possible.
Thierry.
10,000 orders is not a lot for a model in the B.SUV segment that has been on the market for several months. That's what a 2008 or a T.Roc does in a month in Europe.
Nevertheless, this model comes with many qualities, but also a few weaknesses:
1) it's a good looker and its interior design should please.
2) its multienergy engine range enables Alfa to meet market expectations. The range should be completed by a 136hp 4×4 hybrid version close to the Jeep Avenger, with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle, and probably by a 100hp hybrid version at the bottom, to offer a competitive entry-level price.
3) The decision to offer a small Suv instead of a Guiletta-type C Hatch model is explained by the fact that the compact segment is losing ground in Europe to B Suvs. Vw now sells more T Roc than Golf, Peugeot more 2008 than 308, Renault more Captur than Megane, Ford more Puma, Toyota more Yaris Cross than Corolla etc...
4) 1st flaw: the Junior is too small. It would have been more in keeping with the 2008's dimensions and wheelbase, with interior space and trunk volume more in line with what you'd expect from a small wagon.
5) 2nd flaw: its finish is really disappointing for a model that's supposed to be in the premium segment.
6) 3rd flaw: if this model is intended to boost the brand's volumes, it will have to remain price-competitive, especially for hybrid versions...
It's not as if its de******sse design, cardboard engines and non-Italian manufacture had anything to do with it... ...
Just the 3 main flaws that almost everyone points out, but hey... There's none so blind as those who don't want to see.
It will never be an Alfa Romeo, it's just an ugly and unreliable 2008.