2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Review

OVERALL RATING 3.1 of 5.0
  • Performance
    4.2 of 5.0
  • Cost of Ownership
    3.0 of 5.0
  • Interior
    2.2 of 5.0
  • Reliability
    3.0 of 5.0
20 Sep 2016
0

The 2016 4C Spider is based on the 2014 4C, but it now has a number of new updates. We are a little disappointed that Alfa Romeo did not make significant changes to the exterior. That is certainly something that is pleasing to see on new vehicles, especially those that do not appear on a regular basis. However, the 2014 4C was a masterful automotive creation, so the lack of a redesign isn’t all that serious. In terms of appearance, the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is good for a few years. The very modern 2014 4C was futuristic at the time, utilizing all available trendy styling cues. That always means a design is ready to go for a few model years before the public becomes bored with it.

Many more changes have been made under the hood. The car is heavier as a result of additional materials used to maintain the car’s rigidity.

Exterior design

As is customary, we’ll begin by discussing the exterior of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider. There isn’t much to say here because the Spider received the majority of the 2014 4C returns. The front of the car has remained virtually unchanged. The grille, lower air vents, and creased hood are all carried over from the previous model year’s 4C. The headlights have been updated, and they now appear more conventional, as opposed to the bug-eye headlights of the previous generation.

The exhaust system has also been modified slightly. It’s now made of titanium with carbon tips. Finally, the rear decklid and roof have been redesigned to accommodate the new removable soft top roof. The roof on the 2014 4C is permanent.

Other new features include additional wheel options for the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, as well as changes to the standard wheels. Competizione rims (18 and 19 inch) are still available for purchase at a premium price. The Competizione Titanium (18 and 19 inch) and Sport Spider Titanio are new (17 and 18 inch). Many of these wheel options are also available on the Italian rear-wheel-drive Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan.

Except for one, there are seven exterior colors to choose from, all of which are the same as those found on the 2014 4C. Giallo is a bright yellow color with a premium price of €3000 ($3000).

Interior design

When comparing photos of the interiors of the 2014 4C and the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, there is little to no difference. Because Alfa Romeo used less material to cover it up, the carbon-fiber is more visible. There are also some new leather elements in this interior, which is a minor detail. The rest of the cockpit is nearly identical. The steering wheel retains its original design, with a straight lower side rather than a perfectly round circle. The center stack is oriented towards the driver and features a luxurious infotainment screen.

The Alpine sound system is another new addition. The interior is available in five different color combinations, the majority of which are leather. Although the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is a luxury vehicle, it is nice to have the option of plain black cloth seating.

Engine specs

The engine is obviously important in this lovely little convertible. The engine in the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is a 1.75 liter turbocharged inline four cylinder. It employs direct injection and a double continuous variable valve timing system. The total horsepower is 240, and the engine power is transferred to the road via an automatic transmission. To be specific, a TCT automatic twin-dry-clutch with paddle shifters.

Tech specs

Alfa Romeo’s DNA software is a new feature on the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider. This feature provides the driver with three driving modes: Dynamic, Natural, All Weather, and Race. The various modes select the best torque distribution among the wheels and engine settings. As a result, each driving mode provides the best driving experience possible.

Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming are also standard. Free options include cruise control and rear parking sensors.

Price and sale date

The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is now on the market in Europe. Prices in Europe begin at €72,000 without options (Germany). Prices in the United States begin at $65,900, and the vehicle will be available in dealerships in October.