It’s official: Alfa Romeo is returning to the U.S. in 2009 

It’s official: Alfa Romeo is returning to the U.S. in 2009

After more than a decade of being gone, Italian automaker has confirmed that it will be returning to North America in 2009. AutoWeek says that three contemporary new models - facelifted versions of the brand’s one-year-old 159 sedan, as well the recently launched Brera coupe and Spider convertible - will lead the charge. All three models were developed with U.S. safety and emission regulations in mind.

Also, from AutoWeek, here’s what we can look forward to with the Alfa Romeo’s return:

159—Facelifted version of current model arrives in U.S. in late 2009. All new: 2012
Brera—Facelifted version of current model arrives in U.S. in late 2009. All new: 2013
Spider—Facelifted version of all-new model (see sidebar at right) arrives in U.S. in late 2009. All new: 2013
Kamal—Compact SUV inspired by the Kamal concept goes up against the BMW X3 in 2011
Sprint—Future uncertain for entry-level coupe seen as a spiritual successor to the Alfa Sud Sprint, developed under the internal codename Racer. Earliest arrival: 2011
169—Crossover replacement for recently discontinued 166 due in 2012
147—Entry level model currently not planned for sale in North America

Sounds like an exciting comeback to me.