Handsome Alfa heads to UK - Introduction

This is Alfa ’s answer to the German domination of the compact-executive market, the all-new 159.

It’s the replacement for the 156 and goes on sale in December. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but expect them to start at around £19,000.

So what will this Italian have to offer in such competitive and talented company? Well, there’s style, of course.

Few would argue that the 159 is anything but handsome. The overall look is similar to its predecessor’s, but the swooping nose, sculpted front end and sharply detailed rear create a more modern, aggressive look.

The muscular styling is backed up by extra bulk – the 159 is 225mm longer than the 156 and 140mm longer than a BMW 3 Series.

So the 159 looks great, but it needs to be more than just a pretty face to genuinely challenge its Audi, BMW and Mercedes rivals. The 156 was a beauty too, but it fell short for ride comfort, quality and reliability. Alfa said it has worked hard to improve these, as well as making the 159 a satisfying drive. We’ve driven the 159, months before it goes on sale. Read on to find out how it squares up.