At the time of the announcement, several members of Fiat's top brass said that the launch of the 159's replacement had been delayed to 2013 because of design issues, a timeframe that worried Alfa dealers across Europe.
"We are not delaying the Alfa because of architecture but because of availability of powertrains that match the DNA of the brand," said Marchionne.
The decision was a big blow to Alfa dealers, who are almost begging the brand for additional models to sell. The three-door Alfa MiTo has been on the market for several years and it is starting to show its age. The brand has been able to survive thanks to the Giulietta's unexpected success, but some worry that its popularity will eventually start to wane as more modern competitors hit the market.
At the same press conference, Marchionne also indicated that Fiat was unlikely to sell a big sedan in the near future.
"Without Chrysler [in Europe] I would be worried," said the CEO, "but it may be that Fiat will never do another D-segment car again."
