Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS test

Intro: Going in the right direction

Introduced at this year’s Geneva auto show, Alfa Romeo’s 159 is now set to take over where the 156 left off. In addition to being a replacement, the 159 has the mission to boost sales. Don’t forget that the 156 brought the Italian make out of the red with sales of 680 000. Now Alfa hopes to do even better.

Esthetique: Racy

The engineers began with a clean sheet of paper with quality being the key word, which hasn’t always been their forte. The 159 is an all-new model: an unprecedented platform, specific suspension, an all-new interior and an innovative style. Giugiaro has taken care of the design. And history buffs will remember that 30-years have past since the Giugiaro name was associated with Alfa-Romeo. And they have lost their touch with the passage of time, the 159 is sexy, racy and elegant making it a real Italian. The new 159 is larger than its predecessor, it measures 22cms more than the 156 and has the same wheelbase and is the same height as the 166. However, it is also 150 kilograms heavier, the price to pay for improved equipment and safety. And speaking of the equipment...it is enriched or rather up to the standard of the market competition. The interior is classic Alfa Romeo with superior quality, and on this point, the legendary brand has come big. The materials used are more regal and there is a clear improvement in the overall finish. The soundproofing was also reworked and the ergonomics were well thought out.

Motorization: Five to choose from

There are five engines to choose from, three being diesel and two being petrol. Our test car was equipped with the 158 horsepower 2.2 JTS, which was coupled with the six speed manual gearbox and we can tell you that shifting gears is both precise and smooth and another sign of marked improvement. In the years to come there will be an automatic box and then the famous Selespeed with paddle gearshifts. As for the future of the GTA, rumour has it that it will come with the Maserati V8 and more than 300 horsepower and the all-wheel drive Q4 system.

On the road: Clear progress

All that remains is now is the road holding...this too has been clearly improved. You’ll still find those typical Alfa touches when behind the wheel but now with more rigour. While it does tend to roll just a bit in the corners, the suspension is solid and the steering is precise.
Alfa Romeo has thus respected its tech. specs...the finish quality is worthy of the competition, as is the handling. Alfa is proud of their 159 and dares to off a three-year or 120 000 km warrantee...nobody offers better!