The Alfa Romeo 159 burst onto the European scene in 2005, throwing down the gauntlet to German luxury brands with its distinctive blend of Italian flair and engineering prowess. This D-segment contender arrived with a clear mission: evolve beyond its successful 156 predecessor while maintaining that unmistakable Alfa Romeo character.
Taking aim at the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4, the 159 brought something different to the premium segment. Available in both sedan and wagon configurations, it represented Alfa Romeo’s most serious attempt yet at combining emotional appeal with everyday usability.
Sharp Suits and Strong Statements
The 159’s design stands as a masterclass in automotive styling. That shark-like front end, with its aggressive triple-light cluster and distinctive shield grille, commands attention without resorting to unnecessary aggression. The body lines flow with purpose, creating a profile that looks fast even when parked.
Take a walk around any 159, and you’ll notice how the design details work in harmony. The way the wheel arches flare subtly, the clean shoulder line running front to back, and those distinctive door handles – it’s all quintessentially Alfa.
“After three years with my 159 Sportwagon, I still turn back to look at it every time I park. The design is timeless – it draws compliments from people who know nothing about cars.” – Michael Richards, 159 Sportwagon owner
Unlike its German rivals of the era, which often played it safe with evolutionary designs, the 159 dared to be different. The wagon variant particularly impresses, managing to maintain the sedan’s sporting presence while adding genuine practicality.
Heart and Soul
Under the hood, the 159 offered a range of powertrains that matched its sporting pretensions. Here’s what set the lineup apart:
- turbocharged 1.9-liter engines delivering smooth, efficient performance;
- naturally aspirated 2.2-liter units offering linear power delivery;
- range-topping 3.2 V6 providing genuine sports car acceleration;
- refined diesel options balancing economy with strong torque;
- available Q4 all-wheel drive system for enhanced grip.
The chassis delivers exactly what you’d expect from an Alfa – direct steering, poised handling, and that magical ability to make every drive feel special. The 159’s suspension setup strikes a impressive balance between comfort and control.
Living Space
Step inside the 159, and you’re greeted by one of the most distinctive cockpits in its class. The dashboard wraps around the driver, with three deeply hooded gauges providing key information at a glance. Material quality impresses, with soft-touch surfaces and real aluminum trim creating an upscale environment.
“The interior still feels special after all these years. The attention to detail, from the angled center console to the perfectly weighted controls, makes every journey feel like an event.” – Sarah Thompson, 159 2.2 JTS owner
Front seat comfort proves excellent, with supportive bolstering and good adjustment range. The driving position is spot-on, allowing you to feel connected to the car without sacrificing comfort on longer journeys.
Daily Duties
When it comes to practicality, the 159 holds its own against contemporary rivals. Consider these key aspects:
- 405-445 liter trunk capacity in the wagon;
- 70-liter fuel tank for extended range;
- split-folding rear seats for cargo flexibility;
- numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin;
- wide-opening doors for easy access.
The wagon version particularly shines here, offering a well-shaped load area that handles everything from weekly shopping to holiday luggage with ease.
The Final Verdict
Two things become clear after spending time with the 159. First, it succeeds in delivering that special Alfa Romeo character while addressing the practical needs of premium car buyers. Second, it represents a unique alternative to the usual German suspects.
Strengths and Weaknesses
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning exterior design that stands the test of time | Higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream rivals |
| Engaging driving dynamics with responsive steering | Some electrical niggles in early models |
| High-quality interior with distinctive styling | Parts availability can be challenging |
| Strong range of engines, especially V6 | Fuel economy not class-leading |
| Excellent front seat comfort | Rear space tighter than some competitors |
| Available all-wheel drive adds versatility | Service history crucial for reliability |
| Practical wagon option combines style with utility | Premium fuel required for best performance |
The Alfa Romeo 159 proves that practical doesn’t mean boring. While it demands more attention than some rivals, it rewards owners with a driving experience and design that stand apart from the crowd.