Alfa Romeo 159 2009 Review

Launched: Alfa Romeo 159 Ti Sportwagon 2.4 JTD

The visual changes are so small, I challenge even a train-spotter to detect the differences. The only obvious giveaway is the tiny Ti badge attached to the tail, the addition of side skirts, and a new design for the 19-inch alloys. Inside, you'll find minor stuff like new instrument graphics, revised controls and new seats. Ti stands for Turismo Internazionale, but in this case it's also a symbol of a much revised and significantly improved 159 range.

The original 159 was always overweight. The Ti brings a 45-50kg reduction that concentrates on trimming weight where it really counts - in unsprung mass. New materials and modified components mean the brakes, wheels and suspension contribute 20kg to the cutback. Reductions in the body mass cover the rest, yet Alfa has also improved the structural rigidity, this allowing the dampers to be firmed up by 20 percent without impacting ride comfort. To incorporate the changes and introduce new quality processes, Alfa even closed the Naples factory where the 159 is built for a couple of months earlier this year.

Tweaks to the car's 2.4-litre JTD engine benefit maximum power, up by 7kW to 154, while the 400Nm peak now occurs 500rpm lower at just 1500rpm. On paper the differences are small: 0-100km/h is cut by 0.3sec to 8.3, but with fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km, the five-pot turbo-diesel qualifies for green-car exemption to the new LCT.

None of the fine-tuning points to a notably superior driving experience, but that's what the Ti delivers. The body feels remarkably firm, the ride is truly comfortable, the unsettled perception of the old car has effectively disappeared. At least on the 18-inch wheels and standard suspension settings fitted to the Italian test car. Once Australian dealers sell the old cars, I'd recommend importer Ateco seriously look at adding this lower-cost spec to the 159 Ti range.

Performance is strong across a broad band from 1500-4000rpm and combines well with a now polished manual gearchange. Excellent front seats and driving position spoil those up front, but the rear seat cushion is too low and leg room is limited.

The cabin is quieter, road noise suppression far better (mostly through new suspension bushes) so that apart from a mildly gruff engine note, the 159 now feels 3 Series refined and in standard form is far better equipped.

The steering is quick and nicely weighted, the car pointing accurately. Understeer is well controlled as are unwanted body movements, at least away from tight second- and third-gear corners.

Now that the 159 has the driving appeal to match the handsome styling, Alfa deserves greater success. Believe me, this is now a credible alternative to the Germans. The buying decision is no longer heart over head. Just make sure it has the Ti badge.