Alfa has made the 159 range considerably more comprehensive for 2007, with the addition of a new turbo-diesel engine and a full automatic transmission option.
The transmission is a new design of the six-speed but still carries the trademark name of Q-Tronic. Of course, it also has a Tiptronic-type manual override system.
The new diesel is a 1.9-litre four-cylinder, as seen in some other Alfa Romeo variants; it has lots of torque and plenty of performance. The five-cylinder 2.4-litre diesel offers a bit more performance again.
Road holding is typically Italian in its ability. The Alfa Romeo 159 grips the road with plenty of enthusiasm and sends definite signals back through the steering wheel so the driver is aware of exactly what is happening. In spite of being a fairly big car, the Alfa is happy to change direction mid corner if required to do so.
With the diesel, you can feel there's more weight over the front wheels than the petrol version. Personally, I feel this detracts somewhat and makes me prefer the petrol engine.
The front of the Alfa is eye catching. The very effective triple-segment front-light effect, which includes the blinker lights, is enhanced by the typically Alfa Romeo bold central grille - a deep grille that attracts attention. The foremost part of this car is the chromed grille, with no protection in front of it, so it is vulnerable to car park scratches.
The very Italian styling continues inside, with large leather seats and large round dials aimed directly at the driver.
Though it's considerably larger than the Alfa Romeo 156 it replaced, the Alfa 159 still suffers from a cramped rear seat.
