Alfa Romeo has plans to enter a new segment in the coming years, with company CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato telling Auto Express that the automaker will launch a "built-up model in 2028." This vehicle is believed to be an SUV that would rival the BMW iX and Mercedes EQE SUV and will see the brand heading further into mainstream segments.

The newcomer will be accompanied by a large executive sedan that will arrive in the second part of the decade. "After 2026, we will go up [in size]. I'm bringing to the market in 2027 an E-segment car [5 Series-like proportions] that's great for North America [and] that's great for Europe. We will probably also say, 'Okay, why not China?' You know, in a built-up model in 2028."

Alfa Romeo has plans to go electric in the coming years. The sedan and SUV Imperato mentioned will be underpinned by the STLA Large architecture that will likely be used for the upcoming Stelvio and Giulia replacements, which will also arrive as all-electric vehicles.

According to Imparato, the large sedan will arrive first. "When you look at EV, you look at range, and if you speak about range, you speak about [sedans]." This could mean the longer range afforded by a sedan's slippery exterior would make for a better introduction into the large and premium electric vehicle segment.

Stellantis says the STLA Large platform can deliver up to 500 miles of range on a single charge.

Imparato has previously said the upcoming EQE Sedan rival will boast 800-volt architecture and produce between 350 and 800 horsepower. It's safe to assume the large Alfa Romeo electric SUV will receive the same drivetrain as its sedan sibling but with diminished range and performance owing to its higher size and weight.

As an Alfa Romeo, these newcomers have to be fun to drive. Imparato promises the sedan will be fun. "The contribution of the guys on the chassis is key," he remarked. If the existing Stelvio is anything to go by, the larger EV will be near as fun to drive as the sedan equivalent.

In terms of design, we wouldn't be surprised to see the Tonale's design cues adapted to fit the larger models.

Alfa's CEO added that all design until 2027 is locked in, which means the final exterior design for the SUV is yet to be signed off.

Of course, we can expect brand-specific touches like the Trefoil grille, slim Alfa SZ-style headlamps, and an overall sleek design - for an SUV, at least. We anticipate the range-topping model will receive a few details to differentiate it from lesser models. Despite the size, it's safe to assume it will be one of the sportiest-looking models in its class.

As for pricing, we expect it to undercut German rivals slightly to remain competitive and attract traditional luxury buyers. Alfa also aspires to enter the compact hatchback market, last occupied by the Giulietta, with a new electric Alfetta.