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Before the arrival of the 159, Alfa Romeo's representative in the junior executive sedan category is the 156. Although it was overshadowed by the German C-Class and 3-Series, the 156 is truly in a class of its own when it all comes down to styling and driving dynamics. Now, who can ever forget the coupe-like profile of the 156 thanks to it's hidden door handle? Or that punchy Twin Spark engine mated to F1-inspired Selespeed transmission?

Giugiaro was obviously at his best when designing the 159. Physically, not much change was done to the exterior outlook to transform the 156 to the 159 - there are still elements of the 156 on the 159, and that is in a good way. It shows that Alfa Romeo recognises how distinctive the original plot is. They decided to maintain it, make it longer (by 225 mm) and wider (by 85 mm), add some supplementary muscular bits here and there, and presto - the 159. And knowing Giugiaro's quality, everything has been sculpted crisply. But it's just a pity the rear door handles are now placed along the sides, unlike the 156's.

Aesthetics and Practicality

The 159's front looks menacing, all thanks to the new façade Giugiaro has given it. It looks fantastic from any angle, and the individually housed lamps compliment the central grill well. Tail lamps look slit-eyed like the 156's, but are much brighter. Two exhaust pipes protruding from the rear bumper should give a hint to tailgaters that this car means business. The 159's overall muscular stance is exactly like an Armani-clad gentleman.

Inside, the 159 continue its signature classy finishing. The test car came fitted with red leather, which we think should be able to impress potential buyers bored of the common German chaps. Fit and finish is certainly top notch, and there's no fault in there at all - gaps are well hidden, leather is well stitched and plastics used are of the same quality with that chap from Bavaria. The rear seats are sculpted for two passengers, but it shouldn't have any problem even with four. Anyone above 1.8 metres might complain when put at the rear though. Audiophiles should be gleeing happily once they experience the sound system of the 159 - it's superb enough by this writer's standard.

Boot space is definitely cavernous for a junior executive sedan. At 405 litres, it should be able to swallow up to two golf bags and two travel bags - useful especially for those long driving holidays up North. Talking about the boot, it is rather weird to find the boot release button placed on the roof, together with the cabin light cluster.

Engine and Performance

Pop the hood of the 159 and you'll see the 2.2-litre Jet Thrust Stoichiometric (JTS) 16-valve engine in all its glory. Mated to a 5-speed Selespeed gearbox, the 159 churn out a cheerful 185bhp @ 6,500rpm, with the century sprint achieved under 9.2 seconds.

The 2.2-litre JTS engine sounds charismatic, and, working in harmony with the bassy growl from the exhaust pipes, is similar to listening to an orchestra. The 159 doesn't disappoint when stretched, even when faced with cut-and-thrust traffic situation. Best of all, there's the F1-inspired gear shifter mounted on the steering wheel - useful when there's the urge to play Kimi Raikkonen on our roads.

Driving it

Handling wise, the 159 is one of those cars that won't disappoint. The 159 offer a pliant ride, soaking bumps and road imperfections with gusto. Although it rides on tallish 225 / 50 R-17 Pirelli rubbers, it still has the ability to tackle corners and bends without much problem. Although most understeer can be kept under control, a little more feedback from the tyres would be better, as some might find the steering too light for their liking.

Sum up

Summing up, the Alfa Romeo 159 will surely appeal to the driver who understands performance and practicality. Keeping in mind the Alfa Romeo's racing pedigree, it's quite amazing to see the brand come up with such a practically and technically well-balanced car like the 159.

Technical Specification

Engine

: 4 cylinders in-line, DOHC 16 Valves, 2,198cc

Power:

185bhp @ 6,500rpm

Torque:

230Nm @ 4,500rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with manual mode

Length / Width / Height:

4660 / 1828 / 1417 mm

Wheelbase:

2,700 mm

Kerb weight:

1,510 kg

0-100km/h:

9.2 seconds

Available at EuroAutomobile Pte Ltd (http://www.alfaromeo.com.sg).

Latest price:

S$133,800 (Standard)
S$145,800 (Luxury)

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