Discover how the upcoming Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio could feature the powerful Maserati Nettuno V6, signaling a bold return to internal combustion engine performance in the next-generation Alfa Romeo lineup.
The Roar Returns: Maserati Nettuno V6 May Power the Next-Generation Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio
While the automotive world accelerates toward electrification, Alfa Romeo is revving in a different direction. The legendary Italian brand seems to be reconsidering its all-electric future in favor of sticking to its roots — high-revving, emotive internal combustion engines. At the center of this rumored comeback is the impressive Maserati Nettuno V6, potentially slated to power the next-generation Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio models.
This article takes a deep dive into this exciting development and what it means for fans of high-performance Alfa Romeo vehicles.
Why Alfa Romeo May Delay Its Electric Ambitions
From Electric Dreams to a Combustion Comeback
Alfa Romeo once pledged to become an all-electric brand by 2027. However, recent statements from CEO Santo Ficili suggest a strategic shift. The brand seems to be recognizing that the visceral experience of a roaring internal combustion engine is an irreplaceable part of the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio identity.
Ficili emphasized the emotional value of ICE performance, stating that future models could still embrace powerful combustion engines — including the Maserati Nettuno V6.
A Legacy Worth Preserving: The Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio
More Than Just a Badge
The Quadrifoglio badge, symbolized by a four-leaf clover, isn’t just an emblem — it’s a declaration of performance and pedigree. Cars like the Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio have set high benchmarks thanks to their Ferrari-derived twin-turbo V6 engines producing 505 horsepower.
Replacing these iconic models with soulless electric drivetrains never sat well with enthusiasts. That’s why the idea of bringing back ICE power, particularly through the Maserati Nettuno V6, is causing a stir.
The Heart of the Revival: What Is the Maserati Nettuno V6?
A Supercar Engine for an Everyday Legend
The Maserati Nettuno V6 is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine, first introduced in the MC20 supercar. With 621 horsepower and a redline of 7,500 RPM, this engine is a technological marvel — combining Formula 1-inspired pre-chamber ignition with lightweight engineering.
Its performance variations are suitable for various applications:
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MC20 Supercar: 621 HP, ~538 lb-ft torque
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GranTurismo Trofeo: 542 HP, 479 lb-ft
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Modena Tuning: 483 HP
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Grecale Trofeo Crossover: 523 HP
Such diversity allows Alfa Romeo to tune the Nettuno V6 for both the Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio, depending on their performance goals.
The Stellantis Advantage: Sharing Power Across Brands
How Alfa and Maserati Benefit from Collaboration
Being part of Stellantis — the mega auto group behind Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, Maserati, and more — enables Alfa Romeo to access platforms and engines developed by other performance brands.
When asked if the Maserati Nettuno V6 could be used in future Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio models, CEO Ficili said:
"I think it is an engine that can be developed in any brand... so I do not exclude possibilities of this type."
This open-ended statement strongly suggests a shared powertrain strategy, likely starting with the next-generation Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio models.
What to Expect from the Next-Generation Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio
Anticipated Performance and Features
The current Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio are no longer in production, but Alfa Romeo has confirmed base versions of both models will continue through 2026. Their successors are expected to debut between 2026 and 2027.
If equipped with the Maserati Nettuno V6, the next-generation Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio could see:
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Horsepower ranging between 523–621 HP
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Improved torque and rev range
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Enhanced driving dynamics
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Modern design fused with Italian heritage
This would keep Alfa Romeo in direct competition with BMW M, Audi RS, and Mercedes-AMG.
The Emotional and Technical Case for ICE Power
Why a Roaring Engine Still Matters
EVs may be fast, but they often lack character. The instant torque of electric motors doesn’t replace the joy of hearing a turbocharged V6 scream through the gears. For a brand like Alfa Romeo, known for its flair and emotion, an ICE powertrain still makes sense — and the Maserati Nettuno V6 is a perfect match.
EV vs. ICE Quadrifoglio: A Comparison
| Feature | Nettuno V6 Quadrifoglio | All-Electric Quadrifoglio |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 523–621 HP | 800–900 HP (Projected) |
| Sound and Engagement | High — Engine roar, turbo whistles | Low — Near silent |
| Refueling/Charging Time | ~5 minutes (fuel) | 30–60 minutes (fast charge) |
| Driving Range | ~350 miles | ~250–300 miles |
| Brand Authenticity | 100% aligned | At risk of dilution |
When Will the New Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Arrive?
Based on current reports, here’s a tentative timeline:
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2026: New Stelvio base model launch
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Late 2026: New Giulia base model debut
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2027–2028: Arrival of Quadrifoglio variants with potential Nettuno V6 powertrain
Although these dates are speculative, they offer a reasonable expectation window for fans of high-performance Alfa Romeo cars.
Final Thoughts
The potential integration of the Maserati Nettuno V6 into the next-generation Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio lineup signals a thrilling return to form. It’s a rebuke of the industry’s blind march toward electrification and a declaration that passion and performance still have a place in modern motoring.
If this plan comes to fruition, the Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio will once again be benchmarks — not just of Italian style, but of mechanical soul.
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