The new Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso concept hints at a simplified design direction for the Italian brand - as well as its commitment to petrol-powered performance cars.
A sleek 2+2 fastback, it previews the styling of Alfa Romeo's next-generation models. Until now, only the replacement for the Stelvio SUV has been seen in camouflage, and its development programme has been mired in delays.
The Cuorerosso is described as a manifesto for how Alfa Romeo will tackle electrification without forgoing the characteristics that differentiate its cars from the competition.
The brand said that it emphasised its 'Necessary Beauty' philosophy in shaping the new concept. It was initially designed without wheels, windows or details, enabling complete focus on the proportions.
The Cuorerosso is a similar size to the current Giulia, at 4.7m long, 1.98m wide and 1.33m tall, with a 2.93m wheelbase. It is slightly shorter and wider - likely to exaggerate its dramatic shape - but isn't far from what could be possible as Alfa Romeo develops the replacement for its 11-year-old saloon.
Indeed, Alfa Romeo said future models in "key segments of the market" will be based on platforms sized up to 4.7m long, firming up the viability of this design.
Alfa Romeo also sought to produce a shape that was aerodynamically sound, manifesting in its truncated 'coda tronca' rear end - a cue that recalls Alfas of the past - and swept tail.
The low, pointed nose is likewise fitted with Alfa's famed 'scudetto' grille. The 'biscione' crest is backlit and illuminates in a similar rhythm to a heartbeat. The thin headlights, meanwhile, are intended to resemble scowling eyes.
Inside, it follows other recent concepts from the Stellantis group in adopting steer-by-wire technology, which removes a physical connection between the helm and the front wheels. The steering wheel has a flat top to provide a better view of the instruments, which put a fresh spin on Alfa's traditional 'cannocchiale' binnacle.
