What Car? Q&A - How long for new Alfa 149?

Q: I recently read in Autocar magazine that the Alfa 147 is being replaced by the 149. I went to my local Alfa showroom and asked them if this was correct, only for them to say that they knew nothing of this. Now I do not know what to do – when can I expect the new 149 to come out?
Steve Lay

A: While the article in Autocar is correct, the replacement for the Alfa 147 will not arrive until roughly 2008. The 147 received a cosmetic facelift earlier this year, as well as changes to the engine line-up, revised interior trim and modifications to the chassis. Prices start at £13,665 for the 1.6 TS 3dr, but our favourite is the 1.9 JTD Turismo 5dr, costing £15,970. You should be able to negotiate a 14% discount on a new Alfa, which would save you over £2000 on the 1.9 JTD.

If you are looking at the 147, you could also consider the VW Golf and Audi A3 as alternatives.