Previewing the 4C now allows Alfa to divert some attention away from some of the new model launches at the Detroit show next month.
Exterior
Although we'll have to wait until March for confirmation, the styling of the production version of the 4C is said to be close to that of the 2011 concept car.
Interior
A picture of a wheel gives absolutely nothing away about the 4C's interior. It will be interesting to see whether Alfa has to cut back on creature comforts to keep the kerb weight under 1,000kg.
Mechanicals
The mechanical make-up is still the same as the show car's. That means a 300hp, mid-mounted, turbocharged 1.7-litre (using Alfa's historic 1750 designation), four-cylinder engine. Drive goes to the rear wheels through a six-speed, dual-clutch transmission with no conventional manual alternative.
Anything else?
Alfa Romeo intends to offer the 4C globally, with the new car headlining the brand's re-launch in the USA in 2013-14. There is no talk of a limited manufacturing run; instead the plan is to 'build to demand'. A convertible version is also planned to follow the coupé in 2014-15.
If there is anything about this story we have not covered, you can avail of our expert advice service via the Ask Us Anything page.