The first sentence in the Alfa 159 brochure reads; ‘Style and sophistication’. I most certainly can’t argue with that. The 159 Sportwagon is a hot looker – even with the added wallop of versatility in extra luggage space.

The proportions are just right from every angle, and, as you drive by, onlooker’s eyes have a definite sparkle of approval. The front end is aggressive and boasts a nose that not only looks sweet but is superbly distinctive. Don’t you just love the triple light clusters at the front, and the tailgate that is finished with a sexy roof spoiler that has integral brake lighting. The Alfa Romeo Sportwagon certainly comes across as very sporty from the outside, perhaps accentuated by the new car being longer, wider and lower.

Slip into the figure hugging leather seats that are a standard item of all Sportwagon models, and you will be cosseted in some of the most supportive seats in the business. The front of the cabin is very driver-focused, and the textured, metallic-effect of the centre console is angled towards the driver creating a tremendous focal point which is both ergonomically sound and extremely stylish. Within this section are three deeply recessed dials that really do echo the front headlamp design. The large slot for the key works in conjunction with the start/stop engine button – which is a blast to use. The controls for the dual or triple-zone climate control are easily within reach of the front seat occupants. For those of you who enjoy great sounding music, you will be pleased to know that the audio unit is sublime and was especially designed, by BOSE, for the 159. The Alfa CONNECT system is superb to use and comprises Sat-Nav and on-line services which are operated via voice control. In the rear of the cabin the equally comfortable seats have a 60:40 split, and they can fold to increase the luggage area from 445 to 850 litres. A cargo net is available as an option. The rear seats also feature a ski-flap.

Two diesel engines are offered – and they are fantastic. Both the 1.9 JTD and the 2.4 JTD can average around 6 litres/100 km and well exceed 200 km/h. The very sparkling petrol versions are beautifully responsive. The 2.2 JTS exceeds 220 km/h and runs from 0-100 km/h in 8.8 seconds, while the V6 3.2 JTS hits over 240 km/h and can dash from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.0 seconds. JTS stands for Jet Thrust Stoichiometric – which is the specially designed combustion system used in the petrol versions. The low centre of gravity translates into very fast and stable progress. The nicely weighted, positive steering is beautiful for pushing the Sportwagon through tight corners very hard. On the motorway the car is happy to cruise all day long, and overtaking is a blast! You’ll enjoy the six speed gearboxes that run through the entire range.

In terms of safety, the 159 has achieved a 5-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP tests, along with four stars for child occupant protection.

You’ll need to choose between the best front-wheel driven wagon in the business or the copious levels of Q4 permanent four-wheel-drive traction. Whatever your choice, what you will have, for sure, is a stunning set of wheels!

The current model series includes:

• 159 Sportwagon 1.9 JTD
• 159 Sportwagon 2.4 JTD
• 159 Sportwagon 2.2 JTS
• 159 Sportwagon JTS V6 Q4 AWD

For any more information on the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Alfa dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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