224kW from Alfa Romeo 1.8-litre

Alfa Romeo plans to re-set the benchmark for sub 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines when it introduces a new turbocharged direct injection 1.8-litre engine producing a staggering 224kW.

Equivalent to 124kW (or 168bhp) per litre, the all-alloy Alfa four-cylinder’s output comes by dint of “the most advanced technological content”, including 200 bar direct petrol injection, dual valve timing and a “high efficiency” turbocharger.

Alfa Romeo says the new engine will meet future Euro 6 emissions standards while setting new performance and economy standards.

Designed for use in both transverse and longitudinal applications, the new engine will see service “in both existing and future models.”

The new engine raises the bar on existing high-output, small capacity engines from Alfa Romeo, including the 125kW 1.4-litre MultiAir and 173kW 1.7-litre TBi engines seen in the new Giulietta model.

It is expected to replace the current 1.7-litre and should make its first appearance in the 4C sports car, followed by the Giulia in 2014.

Development of the new engine aims at re-connecting Alfa Romeo as an Italian sports car brand within the Fiat empire, with the USA market as its “primary objective.”

According to Harald J. Wester, who is Fiat’s Chief Technology Officer and head of both Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands, “The dedication of Group-wide resources to develop specific powertrain solutions for the specific needs of Alfa Romeo is a reflection of the renewed thrust we are placing on the development of this brand. This is a first step in a series of initiatives to be implemented in the near future which will reconnect Alfa Romeo to its historical roots as a premium Italian sports car brand.”.

Thoroughly impressive though it may be, the new Alfa engine has a little way to go before approaching the power to capacity ratios seen in 1980s F1 racing, where BMW’s 318-based turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder race engine, in qualifying tune, wound out as much as 1119kW (1,500bhp), or 746kW (1000bhp) per litre.

However the 1.5-litre F1 engines were hardly designed for the rigours of everyday driving.

The new Alfa engine is to appear on the international stage, in the upcoming mid-engined, ultra light 4C, in early 2013.

Aimed to compete with the likes of Lotus Exige, Porsche Cayman and Audi TT, the 4C has been earmarked for Australia where it is hoped to sell for between $60,000 and $70,000. The company says the 4C (pictured) will be available with a dual-clutch transmission and will be able to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in less than five seconds.

The new 1.8-litre engine should make its first high-volume appearance in the upcoming, 159-replacing Giulia sedan in 2014.

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