You'll notice that Volkswagen AG is driving directly into the oncoming traffic of convention when it comes to business practices. While other automakers are trying to shrug off - or outright kill - struggling brands, VW is just picking them up whenever it pleases. According to AutoNews, VW is still trying to pull Alfa Romeo out of Sergio Marchionne's grasp.
To clarify, adding Alfa to the lineup would potentially bring Volkswagen's carmaker portfolio to nine brands, including VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Porsche (as well as Karmann, Italdesign, VW LCV, a 20% chunk of Suzuki, the rights to NSU, and more).
In one VW executive's terms, Alfa Romeo is a "treasure...[with] sporty genes" that could potentially help Volkswagen's world domination (or "growth strategy"), provide a great image, and save money due to similar offerings' powertrains and layouts.