Alfa Romeo 159
2.4 JTDM TI
December 2007
Renowned for producing cars that are beautiful to look at, Alfa
Romeo's stylish 159 can also be had sporting a Ti badge. Short for
Turismo Internazionale, the label is reserved for the most sporty and
luxurious models in the range. The newcomer also comes with an upgraded
version of Alfa Romeo's 2.4-litre JTD diesel engine and boasts sports
suspension and a subtle bodykit.
A welcome addition to the range, the TI builds on the 159's role as
executive ambassador for the brand. It is instantly recognisable thanks
to its menacing look which is further enhanced by a lowered ride height
of 20mm, 19-inch alloys, extended side sills, chrome effect door
mirrors and handles plus a twin exhaust arrangement.
The capable 2.4-litre diesel engine is
smooth and punchy and allows the 159 TI to glide smoothly from
standstill to 62mph in a decent time. Power is delivered in a steady
linear fashion and the Alfa benefits from the engine's ample mid-range
torque. The steering is nicely weighted and feels precise while the
slick gearshift allows the driver to tease out the most performance
available in every gear while grip is particularly impressive.
Alfa has done a good job of the
revisions to the front suspension and has added a new multilink rear
configuration. Consequently the car remains balanced and poised when
cornering, and the stiffened chassis compliments the 159's
straight-line performance. The ride however, does become unsettled on
poor surfaces and overall it still doesn't quite match the engaging
drive of some of its rivals, although it is fun to drive.
The 159 TI represents good value considering its generous levels of
standard equipment, which includes goodies such as dual zone climate
control, cruise control, a multifunction trip computer, front fog
lights, alloy wheels in addition to its stunning looks and spirited
driving characteristics.
The 159 TI has plenty of road presence thanks to its striking looks
Ratings
Overall Rating
Value for money
Costs
Space and Practicality
Controls and display
Comfort
Security
Safety
Likes
More kerb appeal than its rivals combined
TI badge and extra kit will be no doubt be appreciated by Alfa fans
Diesel engine performance
Pound-for-pound better value than its German rivals
Gripes
Seats could be more supportive
Tall drivers will be disappointed by the lack of headroom
Lack of confidence in the brand, particularly in terms of its customer service
Conservative prospective buyers might be put off by the car's flamboyant looks
Our Verdict
The 159 TI is a great all-round package for motorists who are also
dedicated car enthusiasts. Its excellent diesel engine, coupled with a
fun driving experience and competitive pricing will appeal to people
who are looking to buy a compact saloon but are looking for something a
little different and with a lot of road presence. In a bid to remedy
its poor reputation for reliability and quality, Alfa is aiming to
produce cars that appeal to the head and not just the heart - the 159
TI appears to do the job successfully.
Costs
Priced below many of its rivals, the
159 is an attractive proposition for those wishing to buy an executive
saloon at a reasonable price. However these savings are offset by the
fact that the 159's German rivals tend to retain more of their value
over time.
Space and Practicality
Unfortunately, the 159 doesn't score
that highly with regards to space or practicality, and rear occupants
will find themselves with only a modest amount of legroom. The boot is
a fair size but could do with being a more regular shape for storing
items such as golf clubs or children's buggies.
Controls and Display
The cabin is undoubtedly stylish and features
an aluminium-trimmed facia that is angled towards the driver, plus some
beautiful cowled dials. It has a key-slot and push button ignition
system, while the instruments are big and clearly labelled. However the
stereo's low position on the dash, located just behind the gear lever,
means it is sometimes difficult. Just as well access is available from
the steering wheel mounted controls.
The TI package includes a number of attractive elements to differentiate the car from the regular 159
Comfort
Despite offering a height adjustable driver's seat allied to a generous
rake and reach adjustable steering wheel, tall drivers may still feel
cramped when behind the wheel, although front passengers should find it
roomy. The leather sports seats are firm and do not feel particularly
well padded or supportive while rear passengers may find the back seats
a bit of a squeeze.
Security
With such alluring looks, the Alfa
may attract unwanted attention so it's probably best to supplement the
standard security devices - remote central locking, immobiliser and
alarm system - with deterrents such as a steering lock.
Safety
The saloon scores highly in crash test results and safety kit is
comprehensive. Seven airbags are fitted as standard and stability
control, ABS, EBD and vehicle dynamic control are also fitted. There
are also front-seat head restraints that move to minimise whiplash
injuries. There are three Isofix mountings for child seats.
Driver Appeal
Overall the 159 TI is an entertaining
drive and refinement is impressive with road and wind noise subdued.
The diesel motor isn't the quietest when cold, although this gives way
to a surprisingly tuneful exhaust note. The 159 might not be as sharp
as a BMW 3 Series and Alfa does play heavily on the 159's looks, but
the TI extras do make a welcome difference to the car's behaviour.
Family Appeal
It's more likely to appeal to the moneyed
company car driver than a family, thanks in part to the car's modest
cabin. Also, the car's plush interior isn't exactly what you'd call
child friendly. And don't forget that a people carrier will be more
adept at swallowing the weekly shop and a pushchair in one go.
The driver-centric fascia is a neat touch, as is the welcome improvement in overall build quality
First Car Appeal
Drivers who are looking for their first Alfa Romeo should consider the
smaller, more affordable 147. The 159 is a fine proposition but is
quite large for first time drivers to manoeuvre. In addition, the car
will command quite a high insurance premium thanks to its elevated
performance status.
Quality and image
The interior looks very stylish and
has a solid feel to it and it's clear that Alfa has used good quality
materials too. Overall refinement is good and there is only a slight
diesel clatter upon start-up from the 2.4-litre engine. Reliability and
quality problems have plagued Alfa's reputation in the past and the
Italian carmaker is working hard to restore consumer confidence.
Accessibility
Front seat occupants should have no
problem getting in and out of the 159. The doors open wide and the
seating height is relatively low. However the car's rear doors are
quite small in comparison, as is the door aperture, so rear passengers
may find entering and leaving the car a little awkward. The boot
however is a good size, and the tailgate opens and closes easily.
Stereo and ICE
There's an array of high-tech equipment available including a CD/MP3
player, a Bose sound system, Alfa's Connect telematic service plus
sat-nav and a phone function. Whether you stick with the standard kit
or opt for the extra features, it all works well and the various
controls are intuitive and sensibly located about the cabin.
Colours and Trim
Alfa is keeping the 159 TI models distinctive
and exclusive by offering three exterior body colours only - Alfa Red,
Stromboli Grey and Carbonio black - all colours that suit the 159 well.
Inside, the TI badge adds extras such as the good quality black leather
sports seats with contrasting red stitching and an embroidered logo.
Leather sports seats with contrasting red stitching add to the 159 TI's already stylish interior
Parking
It's a large car with a long bonnet but the driver benefits from good
forward visibility, unlike rear quarter visibility which is obscured by
the thick C-pillars. Speed sensitive power steering makes driving the
car around town and into tight spaces easy and fortunately front and
rear sensors are available and as such make manoeuvring the 159
straightforward despite the car's modest steering lock.
Spare Wheel
A space saver steel wheel is included as standard.
Range information
Petrol engine options - 2.2-litre
(182bhp); 3.2-litre (256bhp). Diesel engine options - 2.4-litre
(207bhp). Transmission options: each engine is available with six-speed
manual or Qtronic automatic gearboxes. The Q4 4WD system is standard on
the 3.2 JTS V6 and optional only available on the diesel. Trim levels:
Ti.
Alternatives
BMW 3 Series Excellent dynamics and refinement but entry-level models aren't that well equipped
Mercedes-Benz C-Class A worthy contender with few faults; pricing is above average boasts strong residuals
Audi A4 Built to extremely high standards and very popular - this is reflected in its price tag
Lexus IS Delivers good performance, handling and equipment levels but brand image lags behind rivals
