Pros: Razor-sharp handling; invigorating acceleration; wonderfully aggressive exhaust note; one-of-a-kind styling and driving personality
Cons: Cramped, exceptionally noisy cabin; lousy rear visibility; some low-grade interior materials; a bit pricy when compared to more-refined class rivals
CG Says: Under the auspices of parent-company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Italy’s Alfa Romeo brand was re-launched in America for 2015 with the 4C, a small, mid-engine 2-seater coupe with a very snarky attitude. A convertible Spider model was added midyear. The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C adds a standard Alpine stereo system, an available dual-mode exhaust system, an Carbon Fiber Trim Package, and a few minor trim upgrades. The 4C’s sole engine is a turbocharged direct-injection 4-cylinder that displaces 1750 cc (approximately 1.8 liters) and puts out 237 horsepower. It’s connected to Alfa’s TCT twin-clutch automated-manual transmission that features paddle shifters. The 4C is an uncompromising performance car that’s for serious enthusiasts only. The cabin is cramped and noisy, entry and exit is tricky because of the extremely low-slung seats, the ride is rough over anything but glass-smooth pavement, and visibility out the rear window is almost non-existent. There’s also no power steering, so maneuvering at parking-lot speeds is a real chore. All those rough edges give the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C a raw nature that makes it a particularly thrilling, viscerally engaging driver’s car in the right circumstances. However, a Porsche Boxster or Cayman, or a Chevrolet Corvette, offer equally impressive performance and are much more livable in day-to-day driving.
| Class | Premium Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible |
| Passenger Count | 2 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Alfa Romeo |
| Nation of Manufacture | Italy |
| Base Prices | Base coupe: $55,900 Spider convertible: $65,900 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.7-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 237 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
