Alfa Romeo road test reports and car reviews

Alfa Romeo 147 2010

This little car has got everything I need it. It looks great, it’s a 1.6 TS and the interior is fantastic. What more I can ask for? It’s an a Italian car so :))

Alfa Romeo 166 3.0 Sportronic 2001

I had mine almost four years and absolutely love it! Style, power, comfort and you don’t see many around, waited since 1998 to get one. I use Alfa specialist for all repairs. Fairly economical in the right conditions and I’m always looking forward to driving it.

Alfa Romeo GTV 2.0 Lusso 2002

I bought my GTV in January, and since then have never looked back. Yes, it has the odd electrical niggle, such as the fact that you can’t shut the drivers window without opening the passenger one, and that the rear demister only works when it wants to, but the handling is sublime, and the pep the torque provides makes all country roads, and even motorways in my opinion, a joy! The engine is a peach, although I have been unlucky with engine problems. Despite the expense of these, the GTV is the best car I have ever owned. If you want a proper Alfa Romeo, with full soul and passion, then hunt down a well kept example, and you wont regret it!

Alfa Romeo 156 Veloce 2001

Buying this car went against the grain for me as I was always told to avoid Alfas like the plague, blah, blah blah. Anyway, I saw this very tasty looking 156 Veloce in red with a nice spoiler and really nice black leather interior. I took one look at my 03 Mondeo, which had been to the moon and back and it was a no brainer for me, so the Mondeo went and I purchased this red pocket rocket for pennies and it was cheaper to insure and tax. It has little niggly faults like the plastic clip on the elec window breaking and a not fantastic interior build quality are far out weighed by the pure driving pleasure; it handles better than most sporty newer and expensive cars and it’s very quick for a 2.0 car. I think the 0-60 time is slightly wrong because it gets there faster than the 8.5 secs it suggests. I love the car to bits but I live in fear of a massive bill in the near future...

Alfa Romeo 147 1993

I love this car.

Alfa Romeo Mito 135 multiair 2010

I have no difficulty in giving a 5 star rating to this great car, my only issue is the consumption figures given by the manufacturers. In all other departments it is an outstanding car dynamic or otherwise. My only great bewilderment are your ratings.

Alfa Romeo 156 1.8 tspark 1998

Easily the best car I have ever owned. I bought it 5 years ago with 60,000 miles for £1300; with the aircon was not working a small radiator leak. Yes, I know!  I had never driven an Alfa before and I was amazed how much car you could get for the money. Parts are average for a luxury brand and £200 pounds later the car was sorted. It’s very pacy and feels a lot quicker than it is, especially on the motorway. It is a bit noisy at speed and jolts a bit over bumps, but otherwise it is very composed and comfortable; rides like a proper executive saloon. The boot is roomy and a good shape. The rear space is also good considering its coupe styling. The steering is direct and accurate, but lacks a bit of feel. The handling is good and has great lift-off oversteer. If you are careful the mpg is ok, but very thirsty when pushed. This car loves to rev and it sounds very satisfying when it does. It is a bit creaky inside, but with a hard life and stiff springs I expected this. Build quality is fine. Inside is a work of art considering what it costs, even new and never gets boring to look at unlike its uninspiring German and tacky Ford rivals. Although some of the plastics feel cheap they are very durable and always looks new after a good spring clean. The carpets do wear a bit fast though. The sun roof is a bit noisy and leaks a bit in the car wash, but it is an old car. The rear visability is a bit naff, with small wing mirrors and high rear screen so it can be difficult to park... I do drive a van for a living so I’m qualified to say that! The seating is supportive and comfortable although at 6ft I did find the pedals sit very close for the steering reach. The tyres wear fine and even. The suspension wears quickly if punished and should be checked regularly to keep the handling sweet. The driveshafts are strong and last for the life of the car (keep an eye on boots though). The brakes are great and can take a hammering. If they squeal they haven’t been fitted properly. ABS works well. Mechanicals are well built. The engine is strong. but the cam belt and cooling system must be looked after. The clutch and gearbox are excellent; changes are smooth and direct even after 140,000 miles. The Bosch engine management is ok, but can go a little ditsy every so often. The mass airflow meters are fragile and are the first port of call for idle and rev faults although usually a management reset cures most running problems without spending cash (look online for how to do this, but only if you’re confident). The electrics can be a bit unreliable and bulbs regularly blow. The remote central locking can be a bit temperamental and keys are naff and cost £200 to replace. Heating fan problems are easy to fix as they are easy to get to, but the parts are expensive; £80 for a resistor pack! The climate control works brilliantly though. Body panels are galvenised and the paint is of very good quality, but at 13 years old mine does have a couple of rust spots. The chassis is poorly protected and because of this the car rusts underneth easily so check before you buy to see if it has had any welding done already or you spot rust under the bonnet and walk away if it has. If you want to keep the car for a while get it wax-oiled. Regular services are a must so factor in this cost when you buy, but don’t be put off by this though because it is true of any luxury car. If you are not really into driving and only see a car as a way to get about then this probably isn’t the motor for you; most bad reviews of this car are by people who’ve bought it to look good but can’t be bothered to check the oil every now and again. However is you have even an ounce of petrol in your blood you will fall in love forever and will have no regrets. This car regularly puts a smile on my face and has overall been very good to me. It’s only cost me about £350 a year to keep inc. tyres, servicing, mot etc. so even if I scrap it now for £100 that’s £3150 with the initial cost for 5 years and 80’000 miles of motoring. Beat that in a Golf or a BMW!

Alfa Romeo 159 1.9 Diesel Auto saloon 2007

It’s truly comforting to see the other reviewers using the same adjectives as I would to describe this wonderful car. Soul, passion, style, emotion and sheer driving enjoyment, yes even with the Auto box, is unmatched against the usual suspects i.e. A4 Saab, BMW 3 series. You will only undersand it if you get to drive one for a reasonable period of time. I also have had a BMW 3 series saloon which was great to drive, but does not come close to the 159’s comfort, beauty & driving environment inside my 159, especiallly the fabulous leather seats. Yes, there are some quirky design ergonomics but we’re talking Italian here!...expect it to be so. Gratias, Alfa...Te amo!

Alfa Romeo 166 V6 24V squinty 1999

This car is quite simply a classic in the best possible sense. I have never been let down by this beautiful thing in 7 years of ownership. As a dedicated motorcyclist I could usually take cars or leave them, but this car has opened my eyes. The engine delivers its creamy surge with so much character and style, and the body is superbly sculpted. Yes it is heavier than some, but amazingly poised and nimble. So many other cars are spoiled by a slightly notchy gear selection or the feeling that clutch and gearbox are somehow only 99.9% in sympathy. Not in this car. The whole operation is utterly seamless, with the slickest, most sophisticated manual gear change I have ever come across. As eye candy, and even more as a drive, my old Alfa 166 V6 puts an awful lot of later cars to shame. I know, because I have recently been tempted to treat myself to another car - and after each test drive I have climbed back into my 166 only to re-discover that it totally and utterly knocked the socks off the competition. Maybe I’ll keep it for ever.

Alfa Romeo 159 159 1.9 JTDM Lusso 2008

I bought this car over two and half years ago and it still makes me smile every time I get into it. It’s beautiful to look at, fun to drive and I am happy to say very reliable. I regularly get 42+mph up and down the motorway which is a pleasant surprise. It’s not perfect - it eats tyres, which is it’s only gripe for me. It turns out that this is an issue many 159/Brera owners have reported. It’s a world apart from BMW, Audi and other soul-less cars out there. My issue is that the lease is coming up and what to replace it with as the new 159 replacement isn’t around for another year sadly....

Alfa Romeo GT 3.2 V6 2005

Best car I have ever had in over 40 years of driving. Other than the torque steering when you put the boot down, it can range from being a sedate town driving car, a great large item carrier (fold the rear seats down and it can carry an integrated oven!), to a heart thumping all out racing car! If you do not tramp fully down on the petrol pedal, it returns over 30mpg. Cruising at 70 on the motorway in 6th gear produces nearly 40mpg. Acceleration from 50mph is fast, sure and very safe. Cabin is well made with room for 5 adults (normal size!). Servicing (yearly) is moderately priced and mine has been extremely reliable. Overall it is a great car with fantastic looks and that truely Alfa Romeo V6 sound.

Alfa Romeo 159 1750TBI TI 2010

After owning a BMW from new for the last 5 years I was disappointed with the current offerings when it was time to change my car. The thing with BMW, Merc and Audi etc, is they just lack something. They maybe good at most things but I just felt that unless you can stretch to an M3 , C63 or RS4 they are all just tools. Good at what they do but just not interesting. Step in Alfa. Although the 159 must be getting close to the end of it’s run it has such beauty, charm and that thing that’s missing in the German rivals. Whatever it is! Every day I got into my BMW I just turned the key and went off to work. Every day I get into my Alfa, even on a bad day, I smile. This is a good car which brings out emotion. The interior is aimed at the driver and has the most beautiful leather interior. Far superior to my old BMW. And the exterior just puts all other compact execs to shame. Especially in Ti spec. If you like to play it safe and think the most exciting thing in life is playing Scrabble, buy German. If you enjoy life. like excitement and want to feel the blood pumping through your veins, give Alfa a go.

Alfa Romeo 156 2.0 Twin Spark 2001

Had this two years now and we’ve just gone over 105k miles. Cost virtually nothing to buy and as I expected it needed a few maintenance jobs! I did most of these myself but left the cam belt to a specialist. This was my second 156 and the first one was just as good at the same age (10 years). They are great cars, fast enough for most people and brilliant handling. Lovely leather interior and we’ve had no real problems given the age of the car - performance bargain really. Things to look for are corrosion underneath, cam belt needs to have been done properly and on time/miles and check the cooling system is in good order, although not hard to change radiator and expansion bottle etc. water pump needs to be done with cam belt. Mine uses a pint of oil between changes - check it every week and you’ll be fine, ignore it at your peril! Overall a good car, so much better than the Alfa Sud I had in the 1980s. Treat it right though or it’ll cost you dear.

Alfa Romeo 147 Far 2011

This car is rad!

Alfa Romeo Giulietta TB 170bhp Veloce 1.4 2011

Just when you thought there was nothing to say, because cars today conform so strongly to health, safety and globally sustaining imperatives - resulting in a bland, if reliable, set of variations on the same ingredients - along comes Alfa Romeo to remind you that red meat is still on the menu. The Giulietta sat outside my house and at first glance I was enamoured of this car. My practiced eye took in all the telling details. Here stood a car proportioned for today’s busy roads that was subtle enough not to turn heads of rabid boy-racers and yet replete with all those dynamic cues that to the informed suggests punch, pace and panther-like sinuousness with enough bite to set light to ice cream. Nothing here in appearance to alarm timorous vicars wives, and family orientated enough to cope with picnic parties at the riverside - and yet, look at the stance; that generous wheelbase, that capacity, as shown by the radiator slots, for Olympian levels of fully aspirated piston power. Even a jaded reprobate such as I, looked up from my breakfast, peered out through the kitchen window - and seeing this little beauty waiting coyly outside, vaulted over my cornflakes, tripped on the step and snatched at the drivers door, eager as a posse of beavers to - ’Let it roll, Baby!’ In plain English I wanted to go for a drive. Wow! That engine sounds good. Those were my first thoughts as I fired her up. Gently letting the clutch in I felt a sense of generations of engineers behind every confidence inspiring movement. This, I could tell, wasn’t simply going to be transport, but transportation into the realms of afficionado motoring dished up with the brio that only a firm like Alfa can command. The Giulietta is a five-door hatchback with quality trim and fixtures and fittings, comfortable and supportive seating and a sporting ambience to remind you that you’re in a car with a heritage and pedigree second to none. It’s a well-put together car that will surely stand up to the fun driving that it encourages. A wide choice of engines, from a 1.4 120bhp petrol, a 1.4 170 bhp petrol Multiair to a 235bhp 1.8 litre petrol serve the Giulietta well. There are 1.6 and 2.0 litre diesels too. Tested here is the £21,300 Veloce specification 1.4 170 bhp with that wonderful ’Multiair’ engine with its electro-hydraulically operated inlet valves. ’Everyday thrills’ is Alfa Romeo’s catchphrase - and in this instance one can only say ’How apt’. It took to the twisty and undulating Shropshire B roads ’in the manor born’. The Giulietta flows like water and grips like a bankers hand on his wallet. As the road from Craven Arms unfurled ahead, the needles swung over on the dash and the steering gave instant feedback. I knew I could trust everything about this car and for the first time since I rode a Fireblade along the same stretch, I topped a rise and experienced the buzz that comes with riding the crest of a wave. The new suspension system induces no harsh moments of suspense: it’s all you would expect giving perfect control when pressing on - but not at the expense of a comfortable ride. The 170bhp 1.4 Multiair test car is no slouch, as evidenced by a top speed of 135mph. In fact it’s fantastic when you select - with the flick of a switch - the ’Dynamic’ mode.(You can choose from Winter, Normal or Dynamic). The moderately lively performance in ’Normal’ mode is not how I chose to drive once out of town. Sharpening up engine mapping, steering and suspension it’s like driving a different car, as Beelzebub whispers encouragement in your ear. Such is the quality of attention to contemporary clean air issues that I persuaded myself that in indulging my delight in the performance, I was also performing a service to our planet, because this Alfa is not only economical, returning an overall consumption of nearly 49mpg., but also it exhausts freshly at 134G/KM. It’s a never ending source of amazement to me that Alfa Romeo can tick so many boxes and get it so right. If it’s safety you’re after there’s safety aplenty. If it’s in-car entertainment and navigation know how, you can rest assured here. And talking of rest-assured, that applies to the comfort of the interior too. There’s nothing about the car that doesn’t make you feel good. Alfa have a pedigree that is second to none and their products keep getting better and better - which I have to say gives me hope for the human race - for who said ’progress is dead’? Stopping for petrol, a bystander who knew a car from a carpet when he saw one said "That’s an Alfa aint it mate?" Before replying I looked twice at the car just to be sure. Yes, it did say Alfa Romeo on the badge. Filled with admiration for his perceptiveness I replied "You’re right", to which he responded "You’re lucky to have one of those mate!" I didn’t let on that I was king only for a day, saying rather smugly "I suppose I am." Did I see the little Giulietta winking back at me? When my acquaintance came sadly to an end and the driver drove away, the piping rortiness of the exhaust moved me almost to tears. ’Ah well’ I sighed. ’Maybe next time Juliet’. Returning indoors to console myself, I opened a tin of butter beans and reached for the Chianti. Ciao!

Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon 1.8 veloce 2001

With great looks, smooth ride and excellent performance, the Alfa Romeo 156 1.8 Sportwagon is a real winner. Practically speaking, the load space is not the biggest in the small estate category, but it is certainly ample, with a removable multi position stretch net and a variety of anchor points keeping the family shopping secure. The rear seat backs are easy to fold and are 60/30 so that two people can still be in the back even with one side folded down. Seating is surprisingly comfortable for a small car. The Veloce has extra comfy momo leather seats. Safety is good with either four or six air bags depending upon the model. The Veloce version has 16" telephone dial alloys, giving good road holding with sensible tyres that will not break the bank. The only annoying aspect being that the spare wheel is one of those ridiculous bicycle wheels. The running costs, they are pretty reasonable with the lively 1.8 petrol engine giving well over 40 mpg on the motorway, and a combined figure of 32 mpg, which is not bad for a family tourer designed over a decade ago, and which can do 0 to 60 mph in around 9 seconds. The 2.4 JTD turbo diesel offers almost identical performance to the 1.8 petrol but with around 10 more mpg in each category. If looks and driving pleasure play a big part in your choice, then the Alfa 156 Sportwagon is a great car. Although there have been some reliability issues highlighted with Alfa, I have only experienced minor problems like sticking door knobs or loose rubber fittings. Second hand prices are in the bargain basement range.

Alfa Romeo 159 1.9 JTDM Lusso 2006

My first Alfa and have done 111000 miles in 4 yrs, totaly reliable, does not use any oil between services. The only 2 things that needed doing apart from standard servicing is a rear number plate bulb and the bonnet catch adjusting. Most miles done in a day is 960, south of france to home in 16hrs without a numb bum. Brill!!!

Alfa Romeo 156 selespeed 2000

I have had the car 10 years, since new. It developed a gear change problem after 3 years - due to a sliver of steel in the gear box. I often look at the quality control, thin red paint, poor fitting panels and a couple of plastis bits have broken, but it has put a smile on my dial every drive for a long time. I have kept it for my son - like they say on top gear - you have just got to own at least one Alfa in your lifetime. One suggestion- don’t be stupid with the gearbox.

Alfa Romeo GT Diesel 2005

Hi I own a 2005 GT diesel and it’s a great car to drive. Unfortunately my passenger side seat belt keeps getting soaking wet and the car has been to the dealers on two occassions to try and rectify the issue. It does not matter how good the engine is if the Alfa like the 147 & 256 fill up with water and rot within a couple of year. Come on Alfa it’s time for re call to sort this out.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 1.9 jtd 2007

Audis are mainly built for German cement sales men. BMW are built for alfa-males. Alfas are for nice people! Style, grace and elegance are the words that sum up the 159 SW.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2010

Great car, enjoying it more day after day ;-) Can’t wait to get behind the wheel again.

Alfa Romeo 156 2.0 Veloce Selespeed 2001

I’ve owned this beautiful car for a year now and had no problems. It drives and handles fantastic, it’s a real head turner, finished in black with red leather, the best looking car on the road by far... unlike all the other Euro boxers out there it stands out from the crowd. Don’t blend in stand out! Be brave. It always makes you smile everytime you drive it. I love it.

Alfa Romeo 159 Lusso 2010

I’ve had my 159 2.2 JTS Lusso for 2months now - and loved every second of driving pleasure. However, my previous car was a VW Passat 1.9 TDi, so as far as performance goes, I’ve nothing to compare it to!! On the practicality side though, the Alfa really leaves something to be desired. No folding rear seats (they’re an expensive extra!), very little space for CD’s in the glove box or front door bins, the boot release button on the roof(?!) and the fact that you can’t use the cup-holder and cigarette lighter at the same time is a strange design concept!! The point is though, I didn’t buy this car because of it’s practically. German design is very well thought out, and highly ergonomic - but NO-WHERE NEAR as easy on the eye!! The Alfa is beautiful from the aggressively sexy front end, all the way to the incredibly styled rear lights, and everywhere in-between. The smooth tanned leather seats were designed by the guy who makes ’em for Ferrari, and the stitching and leather in the door panels screams ’ultimate style.’ Then there’s the engine: Ok so this car isn’t the best 2.2 on the market, in performance, nor economy, but it sounds like no other!! It purr’s like a sleeping tiger when idle and then screams like a howling banshee when you get it up to 5,000 rpm!! I’m running at around 22-26 mpg driving fairly sensibly from my home through town to work each day, around 10 mile round trip, but on the motorway even driving fairly rapidly, you can get it up to about 32mpg cruising in 6th. So yes, I fill up a lot more than I used to with my diesel, and I can’t store as many bratwurst or pairs of lederhosen in my boot..... but I love it more than anything I’ve owned before, and I won’t be getting rid of it in a hurry!!! In summery, a fantastic car, if you want the practicality(almost!) of a saloon, coupled with the aggressive and fiery temperament of an Italian sports car. And so far no mechanical concerns at 32,000 miles..... Alfa’s have changed :-)

Alfa Romeo 156 2001

Lovely drive, typically as an Alfa it’s plaged with problem, but its charm and spirit keeps it in the family.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 1750 TB 2010

Hello folks, My wife had a bizarre incident with our new Alfa Romeo sportwagon (1750TB) earlier today, while driving in heavy congestion; she got an overheating problem with the clutch; she saw smoke and had to stop; the car was eventually towed to Alfa Romeo’s service and there she was told that there was nothing wrong with the clutch, she simply overdid it with it, in combination with the "anti-hill" (if that is the correct term) that engages automatically and obviously affects the clutch. Now, I know my wife’s a great driver (driving for the past 25 years with no problems), but this may have to do with her lack of experience with driving cars loaded with this system (it is our first turbo anyway). Has anyone experienced a similar problem (overheating of the clutch) or can suggest a possible remedy? (e.g. different driving style) Many thanks.

Alfa Romeo 166 2.0TS 2001

I bought my 166 as a low mileage car with 2 previous owners. Like all cars of its age it needed some work, but that was reflected in the purchase price and in common with many larger executive saloons (especially Alfas) it represented tremendous value for money. Given how much everyone who has driven an Alfa falls in love with them, it amazes me how they remain such great value in the used car market. Whilst the entry level model doesn’t generate the same throaty rumble of the infamous Alfa V6, it remains a huge pleasure to drive. From smooth, comfortable motorway cruising to a high revving winding B road, this Alfa delivers a smile. Yes, the BMW 5 series is more reliable (and is rear wheel drive as opposed to the Alfa’s front wheel delivery). But you will pay more for a similar aged and specified model, and given the choice between some Teutonic efficiency or Italian passion quite honestly there is no competition. Only one car in this class of motor puts a huge smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. I came, I saw, I was conquored. One drive, and I defy you not to become a fully fledged Alfisti.

Alfa Romeo GT 1.9TD 2004

Excellent car, my first Alfa so I was a bit concerned by the sometimes negative comments relating to older models. No problem, the car has been great, pleasing to look at and to drive, I have never regretted my decision. Even six years later it still looks the business (in Black with Tan leather), I have now done 80k plus miles and it still feels like I’ve done only 8k. Not one squeak or rattle not withstanding a lot of miles covered fast on less than good roads and I would recommend one to anybody. A Top Car!

Responses to this review

Hello John, I have been looking for a new second hand car the past month and just today I found a car that fascinated me, the Alfa Romeo GT from 2004, the car it’s in good conditions and it has 100.000km on it. I wanted to know first hand about its driving experience from somebody that has this same car from 2004 and whether you recommend I make the buy? - John Giron from England

Alfa Romeo 147 1.6 TS Lusso 3 dr 2002

I was some what sceptical about buying this nearly 4 years ago due to Alfa’s reputation, but can honestly say that this has been probably the most reliable and best looking and handling car I’ve owned, after Fords, VWs, Renault. The car, even now at 7 years old is still unrivalled for styling on anything you’ll see day to day on the road. Quality of build and interior is excellent and is very comfortable and great to drive. Space is a bit tight in the back and the boot is pretty small, but this car’s not about practicality. Only downsides are the higher than average cost of servicing and parts, but then that’s what has probably meant that I’ve had no problems; only other issues are sometimes stiff gearchange but this can be cheaply rectified every couple of years (gate gets gunged up). Overall a great fun car that is well styled and put together and will make you smile on the open (twisty) road.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 1.9 2009

Man, chicks dig it and when you are caught short for a room the back seats drop down for some horizontal folk dancing.

Alfa Romeo 159 Lusso. Diesel 2009

The digits 159 instantly recall the legendary Alfa single seat racer, which was probably the most successful racing car ever - so immediately I wondered how much, if any, DNA residue resided under the sleek and stylish exterior of this upmarket saloon. Well I'm pleased to be able to testify that this is a car with the virtues of yesteryear incorporated in its DNA with the added bonus for today's driver of all the bellissimo bells and whistles. On first acquaintance with this imposing and astonishingly good looking car - which came, of course, in bright red - superlatives are somewhat muted: the car managing everything expected of it in an efficient and understated manner. But then don't we expect that of every motorcar these days? Open it up and it's a box of delights. You're as cosseted as a caveman in a Saville Row suit. In fact the whole character of the car can be likened to a splendidly crafted Italian leather shoe - the sort that betrays class without a trace of crassness; as tasty as tagliatelli, perhaps, and as piquant as Parmesan. Just in case you think your reviewers head is swelling in self-admiration at his own boundless eloquence, rest assured that this intelligently designed car contains within its sleek profile, copious headroom for even the most capacious cranium. I'm not saying you could wear a guardsman's busby while driving but a bouffant beehive would emerge without any flatspots whatsoever. This is in contrast to so many modern designs where the 'too low' roofline tends to impress a centre parting on the driver irrespective of any retro fashion inclinations. Inside I pondered on the ergonomic efficiency combined with the aesthetic acumen of the Italian designers. Sumptuousness is at its best, with supremely comfortable leather seats, luxury carpets, dual climate zone - and if it doesn't leave you quite frothing with excitement, there is definitely a tang of cappuccino creaminess. Safety has, of course, been fully addressed with airbags aplenty - and the 5 star rating is testimony to this. For the driver, the only jarring note is the red display sitting centrally between speedo and rev counter, which strikes one on the nose (maybe only if you're Cyrano De Bergerac!). Otherwise an exemplary attention to detail is everywhere evident. One feels in the right place at the right time with everything right to hand. However, as my acquaintance grew, so did my attachment to the pleasures, which progressively impinge upon the consciousness of the driver. For instance, the steering seems, perhaps, a shade heavy at first but becomes reassuringly correct with 'spot on' feedback through the wheel and just the right amount of bite on turn-in. Clutch movement is not the usual processed experience and you actually have to 'engage' in the activity: one has to 'learn' a little bit in order to do it perfectly - and when the skill is mastered the rewards are satisfying and you realise you're actually a 'driver' again. Similarly the gear change itself might feel almost 'notchy' to Nissan Micra drivers - but this is an Alfa and it dawns on you that it's what changing gear is all about: a question of feel. To take up the theme, the feel good factor is something that emerges incrementally. There is no instant flash to hit you in the face - afterwards to be dissipated. Rather there is the beneficial feeling that getting to know this car will be an experience to be relished. With new and uprated wonderfully sporty, super torquey, smooth and economical (around 40 mpg overall) 170bhp (360Nm at just 1750rpm) 2.0litre diesel power under the bonnet and substantial tyres underfoot, all suggestions of fragile Italian thoroughbreds are banished. This is a car as solid as the Seven Hills of Rome and as fluid as the rippling river Tiber - and if you enjoy your driving you'd be unlikely to choose a 3 Series BMW over one of these. There just has to be essence of Fangio and Farina in this car. It banishes the bland, but not at the expense of dependability. It's a car to feel at home in under every driving condition - even in the notorious traffic jams, which are inflicted on us with monotonous regularity these days. It may be red, but despite its colour, you're never in a jam with an Alfa 159. and around £23,850 for the 'Lusso spec.' version is a reasonable price for it's place in the market. There are few cars on the road today where one can say 'hand on heart' that one really enjoys the experience behind the wheel. I confidently say that driving such a beautifully mannered car made me feel as well bred as a Royal Duke. This is a car for the cultured motorist who has no need to show off but a very real need for refinement and enjoyment. I leave you with this. Does it pass its SATS Test? (That is:- Special Alfa Test.). The answer - Si! Si!

Alfa Romeo Mito 2009

I had one of these as a courtesy car for a couple of days and i really hated it. The suspension is as hard as the road and the steering is imprecise. It is absolute rubbish. Get a Mini Cooper S instead.

Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 Lusso 2009

Just picked it up from Norwich dealer (Desira - excellent). I still remember the excitement of my first drive in the 205 1.6 GTi but this gem is far, far better in every way. The handling is on rails, the driving feels fantastic. Shame I’ve got to share it with the family!

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon Lusso - 1.9 jtdm 2007

Just had my second hand sportwagon for over a week - gun metal gray 1.9d Lusso. I bought the car with my eyes wide open (having owned a 156 sportwagon a few years back I was prepared for the usual Alfa problems!!). All I can say is WHAT A CAR. Its fantastic to look at (from all angles), drives well and is lovely to sit in. I think the car is much better built than the old 156’s so I hope I will not have too many problems. I have always had a soft spot for Alfa’s because they are so different. So the cost of driving one - well OK, occasionaly you have to sit on the hard shoulder waiting for the break down truck to arrive - but take heart at least you have something beautiful to look at?

Alfa Romeo 166 3.0 Sportronic 2003

Purchased from new - I’ve done 62K in six years and the car has been faultless. Comfortable and solid, long distances are not a problem in this car. However, for a fairly large car, she is also pretty nimble & quick cross country too. It makes just the best noise you could wish for when you use the V6 to your advantage. You can just feel the smile spread across your face when you power up a hill in this lady! My first Alfa was a 2 litre Alfetta nearly 30 years ago. I’ve owned and driven many different cars in between but this car is very special. It’s the longest I’ve ever kept a car and I think she will do me for another year or two yet...

Alfa Romeo 147 Q2 Sport 2007

This is by far the best looking hatch on the market, really love the alloy’s on the Q2 & the sliver wing mirrors. The 16v JTD engine nice and punchy, MPG pretty good, the diff really digs in on the corners. The rides a bit too crashy at speed & it’s developed a nasty squeak which I can’t locate. I would buy a Alfa again although depreciation is a killer on new Alfa’s. I would probably buy second- hand next time.

Alfa Romeo Brera 2.2 S 2009

The new Golf or new Alfa Brera S? Sorted by prodrive no contest - the Brera wins hands down; one of the best looking cars on the road - just stunning great to drive and 30mpg.

Alfa Romeo Mito 2009

The speedo needle pointed to a figure which I dare not relate to you. As we entered the decreasing radius of the bend, my passenger - an ex racing motorcyclist - crossed himself and braced for the impact. "Libera nos, quaesumus, Domine, ab omnibus malis praeteritis, et futuris" he whimpered. I thought he was saying that he would rather have taken the bus and would do so in future. He was actually begging God to deliver us from every evil; past, present and to come - and it looked like there was plenty to come alright - but the car easily sorted itself out and we were soon hurtling to the next bend with grins on our faces. We had taken it up that twisty road through Cheddar Gorge where Alph, the sacred river ran - according to Coleridge. Would this Alfa weave its magic spell and drip feed honey dew to me, its lucky driver? (Cultured readers will at once recognise references to Kubla Khan - the poem that epitomises romanticism.). I’m pleased to report that it certainly does, with its sophisticated blend of Italian design and engineering easily satisfying the romantic cravings of the twenty first century. Later, when our pulse rates had subsided, my passenger told me that he thought the request would get through more quickly in Latin because we were in an Italian car. But he needn’t have worried: Alfa Romeo’s engineers had got there first. The Mito grips the road like a bishop holding onto his mitre in a gale. Put simply, the Mito is so much fun that it brings out the devil in you - and you might even have to get it exorcised after use. By comparison, a Mini is benignly boring. Even the interior is inspiring.It has a cabin that is rewarding to the eye, with an impressive hi-tec ’carbon fibre’ look to the dash and comfortable ’wraparound’ seats that hold you securely in place when the fun starts.There’s plenty of room in the back for two other passengers but three would be too many. All fabrics and fittings are high quality and the agressive and imposing styling reflects the cars character. Alfas new Mito is to ’today’ what the Alfasud was to ’yesterday’ - and motoring is all the better for it. In Guilietta Red, the curvaceous shape radiates ’get up and go’appeal,making it stand out in a crowd. ’Lively’ is the word for this car: it zips along with a vivacity that would be hard to find in any comparable vehicle. You choose from three petrol engines or two super economical diesels and prices start at just £10,745 for the 95bhp Turismo, rising to £14,745 for the inspirational 155bhp.1.4 Veloce model tested here which didn’t quite return the promised 43mpg. It doesn’t go overboard in the performance department thankfully, and rather than following the old American musclecar principle that ’too much is just right’it conforms to the more sophisticated principle that decrees - ’just right is all you need’. 135mph is its top speed, which, as the Actress said to the Bishop, is more than enough.(I had to explain to the Bishop that this is the Mito and not the Mitre) But what is more relevant is the way the turbocharged unit spins so freely, encouraging enthusiastic use of the slick six speed gearbox as if you were chasing Nuvolari in the Mille Miglia. In your dreams you might have kept pace with him if you had flicked into ’Dynamic’ mode, which transforms the Mito from a car suitable for taking Aunt Maud shopping when in ’Normal’ mode, into a responsive racer. The DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) system changes the cars responses dramatically The ’Dynamic’ switch is a graphic exemplar of the phrase ’touch and go’. You get the zip without having to crack the whip. And when you don’t spare the horses you are rewarded with aural entertainment of the horsepower variety as the exhaust delivers a stentorian below of intent. The Mito name is a conjunction of Milan and Turin - but there’s nothing hybrid about this model. It’s solid and definitely not sullied by corporate shennanigans. Its got poise without the pose, but style enough for any boulevard. Light on its feet and so entertaining, this Alfa rules your heart and not your head. It’s better priced and better specified than a Mini - and so much more fun!

Alfa Romeo 147 1.6 TS Lusso. 2002

Great handling and ride, only let down is expensive servicing and aftersales...But had no major problem from new...I would consider buying another Alfa but I just hope they improve the aftersales.

Alfa Romeo 166 1.9 MJet Veloce 2004

Following 18 months and 50,000 (yes fifty thousand) miles in a 2000 2.0 TS I was persuaded by my local Alfa independent dealer, Monza Sport, to try a 1.9 MJet . Well, to say the least, I was impressed. Fast and bags of torque. They agreed to a remap as part of the purchase price and I became the happy and well entertained owner of a 185bhp 156 with huge amounts of torque. On their advice I chose a 1.9 rather than the larger diesel as I was told that the extra weight of the 5 cylinder engine created a less well balanced car due to understeer. I had been happy with the TS. The MJet is even better. It requires a completely different driving technique; plenty of power from 2000 to 4000 revs compared with the need to revel in the revs of the TS to get the performance and less need to stir the 6 speed box of the diesel. So what stands out? Well it gets driven as hard if not harder than the TS and is returning an average of 43 mpg on BP ultimate; that’s about 10 mpg better than the TS. The updates to trim and air con are good. Handling on the optional 17 inch wheels is slightly improved over the previous car and the car remains an entertaining drive. The downside? Well if you bought one new, then early levels of depreciation will not have amused you but by buying a fully serviced, low mileage second hand car, someone else has taken that hit. I have done 69,000 miles in Alfa 156’s now and despite dire warnings in the press, the cars have proved reliable in general. They do wear out front wishbone bushes and drop links on the front anti-roll bar and bushes in the rear torsion bars but all are quite cheap to get repaired by a garage or easy to do yourself with a fairly basic level of mechanical skill. What improvement/change would I make. Well I’m considering fitting a Q diff. (can be fitted to all six speed boxes) to try to put a little more of the torque and power onto the road, particularly when its wet. Oh, and despite the air con. I wish my car had the sunshine roof. To sum up, fun to drive, a little bit different and not German. Make sure its serviced and find yourself a good specialist garage like I did.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS 2006

After two and a half years of pleasure and trouble free motoring it is now getting towards the end of my lease deal. I will be replacing it with another 159. Without doubt its the best kept secret of the car world, fantastic to drive , well built and of course drop dead gorgeous. Any soulless sheep thinking of a 3 series an A4, Passat etc... WAKE UP! Try a 159 if you understand what cars should really be about you will love it. Okay BAD points - the 2.2 is thirsty, the average is about 29 mpg but new 1.8 Tbi due later this year will sort that out (200hp) to play with to boot. Also new 2 litre diesel engine with 170hp is a stonker as well. Well done Alfa!

Alfa Romeo GTV Lusso 2000

The GTV Lusso makes driving a joy again. Not built for the crowded streets of London where it rarely gets out of second gear but let it loose on the winding roads across the country and its a different story. The three litre V6 engine gives you all the oomph you need and more combined with road holding and handling that leaves you with an inane grin for hours. The Alfa’s are notorious for not ageing well but there are good deals and well kept GTVs around if you put your mind to finding one. And no matter the age you cannot beat good design and style and there always a head turner...

Alfa Romeo Spider 2.2 jts spyder limited edition 2008

Not good driving on rough roads - shakes a bit... not great on performance... but it’s a beautiful looking car and not common to see like the Audi TT, BMW Z4 and Mercedes. Everyone admires the Alfa Spyder, from young to old, a passionate looking car with beauty and presence.

Alfa Romeo 156 Veloce 2004

Quirky like they say. I have done 10000 miles on this with 24k miles on the clock and an average of 43 MPG and a pulling power to put most other cars to shame! and funnily enough haven’t had to take it to the garage yet! Like they said.. So I guess this has rendered the experience all the more enjoyable!

Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 Turbo 2008

Best Alfa I have driven. Its FUN FUN FUN. The car does not have limits, the build quality seems superior to earlier Alfa’s, the engine and handling are a dream. Alfa say it is based on the 8C, I think that the car thinks its the 8C. Besides us being in recession I think this is a car that can win back the public opinion of Alfa as a credible sports brand. The D.N.A. control unit has to be seen to be believed, it literally turns the car from a town car to a motor way cruiser to a mini sports car at the touch of a switch - it’s incredible. I don’t own one but had one for two days and well put it through it paces. Will be on my short-list for a car in the future.

Alfa Romeo GT 1.9 JTD 2005

Beautiful car, fantastic handling. The closest experience to a racing car. (I’ve driven Reynard´s on the racing track). Zero problems - my car has done 68,000 km.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 2.4JTD TI 2008

Fantastic to look at and better than a BMW to drive. Moved from having German cars for years and my passion for driving has returned. How can a five cylinder diesel sound so good! Seat with the Alfa red stitching is pure Italian styling. Not worried about mechanical issues as it’s got a three year unlimited mileage warranty. My A6 and A4 both went wrong (£1300) at 65K and 62K. This won’t happen to the Alfa. Blue and Me Microsoft software is easy to use and sound system great. Only gripe is storage - there is none in the cabin. Why would you want to spoil the lines. 19" wheels a dream and people look as you drive through town....buy one.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS (Selespeed) 2008

I’ve owned a 147 Selespeed in Austria for 3 years with which I enjoyed every single mile without a single glitch. My Alfa-Driver Soul reincarnated now in Singapore and I had to test drive the new 159 Q2 2.2 JTS Selespeed. Red colour, Sweet beige leather seats. First look: The kind of car that makes you forget about the most beautiful woman in the world... Erm!! definitely a man’s car!! It’s amazing the level of design detail Team Giugiaro has put into this model. These italians do everything with passion... if they want!! Highway: On Automatic (Selespeed) > Normal Mode: Sweet, soft gear change and it’s true the 5th is short.. > Auto > Sport Mode: the speed of the gear change is just amaaaazing. I was used to the 147 Selespeed’s gear change. Guys, I can tell that this car is a rare breed and the technology inside it is 10 times worth the value of every dollar you invest to buy it. City-driving is smooth and cool. The overall driving experience is just fantastic!!!!! good acceleration, steer-feeling, brakes, visibility around you, commands (except the automatic cruise control which is not so ergonomic) Sound System: they replaced the Bose SS by a non-name 8-speaker thing... but the sound quality was quite ok, given the excellent car’s noise insulation. I’ve been told you can integrate you ipod and command its function thru the car’s commands, but I’ll need to see it to believe it. But an Italian car is not Italian for nothing, sometimes the engineers just become too lazy and in this case, they didn’t bother to redesign the middle front armrest console for right-hand driving. so the right-hand 159 comes with a left-hand armrest for the driver, which means the driver can’t rest his left elbow (sorry ladies it’s "his"). That’s the kind of things that makes you think "they’ve done so much to make this car stand out in the croud and failed to modify this tiny detail, which by the way gives the driver an extra comfort especially in city-driving" I can’t understand THIS italian lazyness. Notwithstanding, again, forget the new A4 2008, forget the 3-series (and even the 5 series), they are far more expensive, they don’t give the thrill and joy the Alfa 159 has in its DNA and... what should I say, they’re just an A4 and a BMW... and for me these cars have no character. A GOOD buying argument: ALFA is offering a 5-year warranty on every single piece of the 159 Q2 in Singapore and I can tell you they are not doing it for nothing: This car can only be reliable.

Alfa Romeo Brera 2.4 JTDM SV 2007

Always been an Alfa fan so when the opportunity to have a Brera as a company car came up I jumped at the chance! Do around 30,000 miles a year so the car gets worked hard. Looks stunning, drives superbly on long motorway runs. Never got near the claimed 41mpg for the diesel but average around 36mpg. Only given 4 stars because at 24,000 miles the oil cooler failed and emptied the entire contents of the engine all over a hotel car park - least it wasn’t my drive. So a question-mark for me over reliability, otherwise a great car.

Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTDm Lusso 2007

Love mine too - inside and out. Yes the Sat Nav is out of date but it does a reasonable job. My car was imported and came with the wrong steering wheel and, since being sorted by the importer, the car has developed a few squeaks - a pain for a car less than a year old but hopefully I can get it sorted. But that’s my only gripe. Yes, the paintwork was damaged on delivery, so was an alloy and I had an oil leak but it’s all been sorted and it never seemed like a problem really because we all wanted to sort it out. My girls hated the idea of me buying but, the day it arrived, there view totally changed and has remained so. I suppose that’s it really; it’s great to drive, really comfortable, mid 40s mpg, good looking inside & out so it’s little foibles are forgiven (I had a Peugeot before that I nearly returned it was so poor so I do know bad when I see it). I’d buy another tomorrow.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 2008

I have the 1.9 jts engine... black with black leather interior. The Sportwagon is just a big joy, it’s like owning a piece of expensive art for everybody to see on the roads. Giugiaro worked his magic here, I can definitely say this is the best looking estate car in the world and even better looking than its sedan version. Sportwagon, as its name suggests, has a powerful yet elegant ’sporty feeling’. Function-wise, it has some not too well thought areas inside.. like the sunglasses mini compartment on the roof, even a classic Rayban won’t fit inside so I only placed the remote control of my garage there. The cup holder area is right under your arm, if you want to switch gears it is a problem but these things you can forgive... easily! The engine is silent and very Alfa-ish... inside of the cabin screams "Alfa, Passion, Italian, hmm leather, Coooool!!!" The element of luxury feeling is there and there is enough legroom for everyone. The design is here to stay for some years hopefully. The Alfa Romeo Sportwagon will be considered one of the best looking cars Alfa created, ever. And again hopefully the most reliable one but time will tell about this... Well done Alfa, keep up the good work... Waiting the same magic for the upcoming 169.

Alfa Romeo 159 1.9 Jtdm Tourismo 2006

It’s just a wonderfully sexy car. Attracts attention and on top of that power is at starting point. Drive the equivalent cars in other makes they don’t have drastic power generation as the Alfa does, but for me I need a looker!!!!

Alfa Romeo 159 2.4 JTDM 2008

ITS THE BEST CAR THAT YOU CAN GET BY FAR, My one is actually the TI version but any normal 159’s will compete easily with the best looking sporty BMW’s, Audi’s or Merc’s so imagine comparing with the TI, tut just out of comparison. I advise everyone to drive the 159 just once before deciding on any compact saloon. KEEP UP THE WORK ITALIANS!

Alfa Romeo GT 1.9 JTD 2005

Love the car, my best yet even with a failed cambelt (repairs and courtesy car paid for by Alfa even when out of warranty!!). Averages 47 mpg on the motorway too.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS Lusso 2006

My third Alfa (after 155 and 156) and certainly the best. Solid and comfortable, yet great fun. The best possible compromise between ride and handling (only BMW 5 series comes close) and the best break pedal feel of any car I have ever driven. Drawbacks: unnecessarily short 6th gear (3100 rpm at 70 mph) and slight thirst for petrol as I struggle to get more than 31 mpg. Anyone looking to buy a BMW 3 series: don’t before you test drive the Alfa; you will be surprised!

Alfa Romeo 166 2.4 jtd 1999

I bought this car with 247000 km and 7 years old. Fabulous driving experience and amazing sound. Sixth gear comes in handy enabling an economical drive, consuming only a 19.7 a liter. However, the turbo engine,cruise,steering assistance and superb breaks may tempt for sporty driving . brilliant seats and high comfort. Model and design of interior and ’street looks’ are among the top of the market. speakers in the back are far from impressive. Superb handling and fast in corners. Even in the Dutch climate never had any trouble with engine or starting. electronics of left window had to be replaced at 249000. Aircon sensors needed fixing and homokinetic as well. Minor issues for a great driving experience.The best car I ever had. Even though I resented disposing of my good old Rover 620SI, which in fact was a BMW with Honda engine:)

Alfa Romeo 147 2.0 2004

Brilliant little car - good fun to drive and looks good. Service can be expensive, but don’t let that detract from the fun.

Alfa Romeo 147 1.6 TS Lusso 2002

The 147 is a very enjoyable car and at six years old still providing very reliable motoring. I have had all sorts of cars including three Audis, a Saab, two VWs and a Jaguar (it was rubbish) and the Alfa is as relaible as all of them and much better fun to drive. Other than service costs, the only repair has been the back bushes - replace them with the polyurithane variants and they will last for a long time and give better handling. The ride & handling are far better than others in the class I have driven and the engine is wonderfull when wound past 5000RPM. This car really puts a smile on your face and has style in spades. If you are thinking about another bland badge from Bavaria, treat yourself to a car with real pedigree you never know, you might enjoy driving again.

Alfa Romeo 147 147 Lusso 2002

Looks good but: Service very expensive. Last service > £1200 for a 6 year old low mileage (42000) car. Unreliable. Several ’collapses’ labeled ’engine control centre failure’. Very expensive to fix. Piston fracture requires new engine at cost of >£3000. At 6 years? Never an Alfa again.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.4 JTDm 2007

An object of beauty sprawled out on the drive with it’s seductive grille and headlights, soft leather seats and deep pile carpets. No, this is not the Honda Jazz hire car that I have on loan but my 159 2.4 JTDm which currently has a mind of its own with regard to reliability. For the second time in three weeks it has booked itself into an Alfa hotel for a few days while they try and work out what the problem is. That aside when its not a drama queen this car is all you could want from a motoring experience and i will keep that thought with me while I tootle along the country lanes in my noddy hire car. Being serious for a moment I could quite easily give my Alfa a five star rating just for what it is but I am finding it difficult to contain my frustration with the reliability issue.

Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTDm Turismo 2008

There is no doubt that this is a great looking car but it is badly let down by the poor suspension and handling. The engine is pretty good though, the 1.9 JTDm Turismo is the best of the lot.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.4 JTDm 2007

I bought my 159 with every possible option including the lovely soft Frau Leather seats which are electric and heated. There is navigator, phone, 10 speaker Bose multi CD system, parking sensors everywhere, tri zone air-con and much more. Any German with the same spec would have cost around 30% more. Then it is purely about how the car drives. 70,000 miles in a year (totally trouble free) and I’ve enjoyed every one of them. The car is set up superbly and feels like you are on train tracks with easily corrected understeer. The suspension is firm but much quieter than previous Alfa’s. Lovely gear change and steering which is perfect (fast, responsive and sensitive with tons of feel) so you know what is going on. The 2.4 5cyl diesel is excellent, more potent than many German diesel V6’s I’ve driven the C Class and A4, no competition, the Alfa is much better. If you like the 3 Series it is an excellent car but no better than the Alfa but more expensive. And with the BMW you always look like a bit of a t**t; as Clarkson says "Tom Cruise".

Alfa Romeo 159 JTDM 2007

Jeremy Clarkson described this as the Christopher Walken of cars, the BMW 3 Series was the Tom Cruise. What Clarkson was saying was amongst the hundreds of Walken appearances there are a couple of real diamonds. The latest 159 is one of Alfa’s diamonds.

Alfa Romeo Spider 2.0 JTS Lusso 2004

I think this is a car you have to own once in your lifetime. No it’s not perfect but it’s got a charm all of it’s own and it still makes for a thrilling drive. A head turner for sure. The newer model improves on this older version but I’ve had no problem reliabilty wise with mine, which I bought with only one previous owner a year ago. Great fun car.

Alfa Romeo 147 JTD Lusso Multijet 16V 2004

The 147 is like a fiery Italian mistress. Great for an enjoyable fling, but not so wonderful for a long term relationship. On the plus side, the 147 looks fantastic, the seats are comfortable, the 6-speed manual gearbox is great & the multijet turbo-diesel engine is fantastic, offering strong performance & better than 40mpg economy. And it’s compact enough to be great fun for a B-road blast. But there are too many niggles to recommend it wholeheartedly: The protective tray under the engine keeps coming loose. The ride quality is poor on roads that aren’t smooth (ie most). The body panels (particularly the roof) pick up dents very easily. The factory-fit sat-nav is quaint at best & the stereo is temperamental. The colouring on the leather is easily worn away. And the Bose speakers in the rear doors are for show only - they don’t have wires attached!

Alfa Romeo Brera 2.4 JTDM 2007

I had a 159 1.9JTDM and that was a lovely car and just got the 2.4JTDM and drives like a dream, best car I have seen on the market for the price. Insurance very cheap and just a lovely car.

Alfa Romeo 159 2.0 litre 2006

I have had to give the 159 a rating of 4 stars based on one thing....reliving history as told by the early racing Alfa Romeo cars that stole the pages of those original critic magazines around europe back in the sixties. If any male out there has not bothered, even wanted to, could not care for, or just aint interested in this marque, then maybe you should give in to your alter ego and book a test drive in one of the latest Alfa 159 saloons. There is something vulgar and rude about this motor but with a sheepish kind of stance, that almost takes you back to the first time you managed to ram your tongue down that pretty girls throat, after drinking cider together, outside of the main hall, before entering the school disco aged fourteen with all of yer mates! Girls...Cars...Speed...Music...yep everything that leads to eternal indulgence and wantedness is wrapped up in this bute of a car. I was going to look for the "poor build", the even poorer "failing electrics", the "tinny feel" along the body panels, you know everything that every critic throws in this brands direction. But...it just did not give me the impression that something was wrong on any of those things. It was a real roomy, smooth, quick off the mark, alternative to the rest of the usual plinth of boredom sat on the shelf in this league. Put your foot down and send the rev counter needle towards the small fixing screw, (8000 revolutions)! and then change gear, it will do this and leap further away on every gear change from 2 to top. It absolutely loves to scream, (yes i know...so did the girls at the school discos)! It doesn’t sit on four wheels, it actually stands waiting to pounce on any stretch of tarmac that you direct it too. Fuel economy was o.k and comfort was well within the boundaries of niceness. The driving position is good, and the overall town driving was really fine. If there are real men out there who would rather not consider an Alfa 159 then that is absolutely fine, but for the rest of you who think back and remember the schoolday tongue lashings, then that same sensation is waiting for you at your local Alfa Romeo dealer...Go on book a test drive...

Alfa Romeo Brera 2.4 JTDM SV 2006 2006

What can I say................amazing car. Firstly the car looks so beautiful, best looking car on the road. Secondly for �25,000 you realy cant go wrong and has more equipment compaird to a Golf GTI that i was thinking of getting instead. Thirdly Alfa have sorted out all the plauging problems found in their previous cars. With the new German company director, hes made sure that reliabilty is a prime factor to sort out....good call. Fourthly the car drives great, and gives a comfortable ride. May not be the most powerfullest car for its price, but than again how fast are your reallly going to be driving. Deisle model gives a really good pmg rate. Fithly the car has done 14,000 miles with out a hicup and costs are fairly good as well. Im 22 and insurance came to �900 with me as first driver, an’t to bad. Overall the Brera is one of the best cars avaiable for its price, looks great, drives great and deffently a good envestment. When you sit in the car you know this the real deal, excellent build quality.

Responses to this review

Did no-one ever get around to teaching you how to spell? - John Cameron from Durham

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 1.9 JTS 2007

Definately the best looking Sportwagon, Alfa Romeo are certainly streets ahead of the competition when it come to style. The 1.9 litre engine gives the best economy and the performance is strong and refined. The suspension on the 159 is the best I have ever come across. The cabin is well laid out, orderly and well structured whilst safety and security is beyond compare. A great looking, well equiped sportwagon.

Alfa Romeo GT 1.9 JTD M-Jet 2007

A sexy Italian, just want I always wanted! Sleek look, sporty performance and still practical.

Alfa Romeo Brera 2.4 JTDM SV 2007

The new Brera seems to have ironed out any problems Alfa Romeo had a couple of years ago. Drives like a dream.

Alfa Romeo 147 1.6 Turismo

Steering good, handling not so good. Everything about this car is slightly too fiddly and this detracts from what is otherwise a pretty good car. All in all an OK car but interior space is limited and not the most comfortable of drives.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon Italy

I rented the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon in Italy. We drove the car for about 650 miles in 4 days. I loved the styling, the handling and the pickup. The car was the diesel 6 cylinder. Europcar was the rental company. The car broke down twice in the four days. The second time the clutch gave out on the road they call the Dragon in the Amalfi coast. Service provide by Europcar was very poor. Needless to say I was not impressed with the car which was very disappointing as I was very excited to try that manufacturer.

Responses to this review

It seems to be Europcar and their lack of maintenance you should blame - Michael Carrick from London

Alfa Romeo Spider JTS

Looks great but the suspension is slightly shaky. The 2.2 litre engine doesn’t purr but is functional.

Alfa Romeo GTV 2.0 Lusso

I bought my GTV back in 05 when production was coming to an end and bagged myself a bargain. I love this car. It’s such a smooth comfortable drive and looks as good today as it did when it was brand new. Running costs aren’t the cheapest but there are other cars in this class that cost a lot more. I’ve read that the GTV isn’t considered reliable, but so far - touch wood, I’ve only had a few very minor and inexpensive glitches. Very happy with it.

Alfa Romeo 166

Nothing I have driven, not Mercedes, not BMW even comes close to this car. First class.

Alfa Romeo Spider 3.0 V6 24V 2d

Perfect for cruising with the roof down. The Spider looks great and is a joy to drive. My 3.0 V6 performs admirably and turns heads wherever I go!

Alfa Romeo GT 2.0 JTS 2d

This car looks fantastic, is extremely reliable and is good value for money. Definately one of the best coupe's available in the UK.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon 2.2

This is Kenny review: I've been pretty happy with my Sportswagon - it's stylish with good handling. One grumble is that they back seats will not lay flat when flipped forward. I needed an estate car and I still think that this is by far the best looking one available.

Alfa Romeo Brera 3.2 V6

In one word - superb. Previously owned a GTV which had more faults than I'd hoped for. Elegant, fast and dynamic - 3.2 litre engine just about right. Suspension and handling great too.

Alfa Romeo 159

I think this is the best looking car available in the UK market. It also goes like the clappers and in my opinion is far better than the BMW 3 series and the Audi A4. I would recommend the 159 to anybody looking for a powerful, sporty, great looking car.

Alfa Romeo 147

I also LOVE my 147. Both fun to drive and reliable.

Alfa Romeo 147 2001

I bought this car on the back of it's winning car of the year ib 2001. It's six years old now and still going strong. Excellent reliability and does not look dated despite it now being now classed as an "older" car.

Alfa Romeo 147

I LOVE my Alfa Romeo 147. Although it has received a bit of a bad press in the UK I have found it to be the best sports car that I have ever owned. The 1.9 JTD engine makes it very nippy and this is a very good looking model. Don't believe the press, this a great car!