Alfa 159 arrives

Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro the handsome Alfa Romeo 159 boasts a brand new platform and larger dimensions than the 156. It is available with a choice of three powerplants -- 2.2-litre 136kW four-cylinder petrol JTS, 2.4-litre 147kW five-cylinder JTD turbo diesel and the range topping 3.2-litre 191kW V6.

All engines are mated to a six-speed manual (six-speed automatic transmissions will arrive next year for 2.4 turbo diesel and V6 models). The 3.2 is equipped with Alfa Romeo's all-wheel drive system with modulating torque split.

Standard equipment is generous with leather interior, 17-inch alloys (18s on V6), cruise control, 10-disc CD player, remote locking, rear parking sensors, multi-function display and dual-zone climate control air-conditioning.

Options include metallic paint ($1600), electrical adjustable seats and mirrors ($2750/standard on V6) and electric sunroof ($2250).

Alfa Romeo claim the 159 has best in class torsional rigidity which contributes to the car's good road manners. The 159 also has a five star NCAP safety rating.

Launched locally in Sydney, the twisting country roads leading up to the Hunter Valley proved an ideal place for CarPoint to put the 159 through its paces. We came away very impressed by the car's handling and usable power. The diesel in particular was a winner with tremendous torque and great fuel economy. Alfa's quality bugbears seem to have been sorted out too.

Pricing for the Alfa Romeo 159 starts at $49,990 for the 2.2 JTS, moves to $55,990 for the 2.4 JTD and tops out at $74,990 for the 3.2 V6. Alfa Romeo predicts the 159 will make up 50-60 percent of total Alfa sales.

Keep an eye out for CarPoint's full launch coverage of the new Alfa Romeo 159 next week.