Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2010

Romeo & Giulietta. The names go together like gin and tonic. And now, finally, after a quarter century, the star-crossed nameplate has returned. We just got our first look up close here at the Geneva Motor Show, and it's left us hoping – nay, praying – that the sumptuous new hatchback makes it Stateside.

Fortunately there's a glimmer of hope to hold on to. While Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne weighs the brand's future, the Giulietta – Italy's assault on the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series, but crucially priced closer to a Golf or Focus – may very well be Alfa's last new product for the next while at least. But whether it's meant to tide us over or whet our pallets – or better yet, drive us around our daily grind – the Giulietta looks stylishly up to the task. But don't take our word for it,