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Alfa Romeo 156 Review & Road TestReview by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk
Summary The Alfa Romeo156 has recently undergone a freshening up (2003) that underlines its stylistic edge over the competition, namely the the BMW 3-series, the Mercedes C-Class and the Audi A3. These design changes have brought the 156 more into line with the softer curves of the Alfa Romeo 147 and give the six year old design a more modern look without compromising the cars ability to stand out in the executive car park. Additional plus points for the 156 include its well-appointed and designed cabin and the panache of the Alfa Romeo badge(most models come with window airbags, dual zone air conditioning) . More significantly the interior also now feels rock solid, materials are tactile and the well bolted together. Given the sporting pedigree of Alfa Romeo, the GTA is worthy of special attention. This model is fitteed with the 3.2 litre V6 24 valve engine (250bhp) that pushes the GTA from 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. Huge levels of power is available across all revs and is delivered through a drive by wire system. Add to this the tuned suspension and the lovely engine note and you have an extremely satisfying sports saloon that can outperform most of the competition. Engine choices for the Alfa Romeo 156 start with a 1.6 petrol engine and finish with the excellent 3.2 litre V6 24 Valve petrol engine. Interior space is ample for all passengers and four adults can be accommodated with plenty of head and legroom. The bootspace is adequate but not up with the class leaders (rear suspension turrets also intrude into the boot which further restricts versatility). The drivers cockpit is well laid out and all controls are logically placed and easy to operate. On the down side depreciation
is much steeper on the 156 than its German competitors and security features
could be enhanced (e.g deadlocks). Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk Do you agree? Do you disagree? Click here to submit your own review of the Alfa Romeo 156 >> |
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