Alfa Romeo GTV 3.2 V6 test

Intro: THE BEST OF THE ALFAS

This is the fastest standard series Alfa Romeo in history, the new GTV.
New because it has a brand new front which underlines the fact that it is part of the new Alfa family. The GTV inherits the 3.2 litre V6 from its GTA cousin. (by Jessica Paupinat)

Esthetique: ITALIAN ELEGANCE

The radiator grill is now bigger with more chrome and the bumper has also been redesigned – Pininfarina is responsible for the design, of course. The car keeps the looks that have made it a success – the looks of a coupé packed full of character and charm.
The back hasn’t changed. On the inside, the driving position has at last been improved and is more characteristically that of a coupé. The dashboard remains the same with the dials now lit in red. The car’s Italian character is omnipresent, as is the leather upholstery. With its mix of elegance and sport, the atmosphere inside is lovely

Motorization: A PLEASURE

The other new feature is hiding under the bonnet. The GTV inherits the 3.2 litre V6 from its GTA cousin. But with 10 less horsepower. Why, you might ask, has it not been called GTA or GTVA? The answer is easy; the GTA stamp is reserved uniquely for the most powerful models of the Alfa-Romeo family.
It’s a pleasure to see this 24 valve V6 again in all its legendary beauty. We regret though that more work hasn’t been done on the exhaust because since the engine compartment is really tight, as soon as you start the car, the fan kicks in and covers the engine sound. Which is a pity.

On the road: THE MOST PERFORMING OF THE ALFAS

As well as being the fastest Alfa Romeo in history, there is no doubt that the new GTV is also the sportiest.
It is equipped with same 6-speed gearbox as the GTAs with the same staging what’s more, but the thing that makes the difference is the traction, which is far more efficient. For example, while a 147 GTA searches out the road when accelerating, the GTV sticks firmly on the tarmac. This talent, especially from a front wheel drive car, is the result of very successful shock absorption. Because of this, using the 240 horsepower is more fun. You bound from one corner to the next without having to fight either the wheel or the gearbox. The front wheels can be placed where you want without question. The Alfa Romeo GTV is rigorous and efficient, but still remains comfortable. It lets you savour the raging and legendary suppleness of the V6.
The brakes perform very well and even the ESP is intelligent!
The icing on the cake is the price. On sale for less than 37,000 Euros, this car is much more reasonable than its direct competitor the Audi TT 3.2. Just the image question of remains. But don’t forget that Alfa Romeo has managed to get its head above water thanks to the 147. It is now well set to surf on the wave without needing a life belt. Especially when you know that no less than 11 new models are expected between now and 2006!