Alfa Romeo has revealed its Milano small SUV, its first series-production electric car and the gateway to a new EV era for the brand.

Also available as a petrol mild hybrid, it’s based on parent company Stellantis’ e-CMP platform, which underpins other group models such as the Jeep Avenger, Peugeot 2008 and Fiat 600e, but will be “100% Alfa Romeo”, according to the brand.

Named as a tribute to the carmaker’s hometown, it’s “sporty at heart, compact in size and Italian at first sight” and marks a spiritual successor to the Mito and Giulietta hatchbacks.

The fully electric version will be available in two versions, both with a 54kWh battery.

The lower-powered Electtrica version will offer 156hp and up to 401km (250 miles) of range. Above it will sit a high-performance 240hp Veloce model. Both can be powered from a 100kW DC rapid charger, giving a 10-80% charge in less than 30 minutes.

As with its Stellantis siblings, the Milano will also include a 1.2-litre mild hybrid petrol in the line-up.

The brand says it brings “the typical driving pleasure of Alfa Romeo to the compact segment”. Features on the top-of-the range Milano Veloce include a mechanical self-locking differential, “the most direct steering ratio in its class”, a widened wheel track with specific front and rear anti-roll bars, sports suspension and braking system and 20-inch wheels.

It’s also available with the Alfa D.N.A. system, delivering Dynamic, Natural model and Advanced Efficiency modes.

Alfa promises “segment-leading comfort and practicality” too, with a 400-litre boot and a cable storage compartment located under the bonnet plus 10.25-inch driver and infotainment displays.

Orders for the Alfa Romeo Milano open in the summer. Prices are yet to be announced.