ALFA ROMEO 159 SPORTWAGON REVIEW

Performance

3 out of 5 stars

There are just three engines to choose from in the 159, with the only petrol option giving the high performance some will think the car's sharp looks demand. However, we’d recommend one of the 2.0-litre diesels, which make more sense financially. These give either 134bhp or 168bhp - the latter is impressively brisk.
Ride & Handling

2 out of 5 stars

The 159 deals reasonably well with most surfaces, but you hear the suspension clunking over bumps. Body movement isn’t tightly controlled, either, so the 159 isn’t rewarding on a twisty country road. There’s impressive grip, but while the steering is accurate, it would benefit from sharper initial responses.
Refinement

2 out of 5 stars

Refinement is impressive, even the 159 though isn’t quite as hushed as the BMW 3 Series. Road and wind noise are well subdued, while the engines usually keep themselves to themselves.

Buying & Owning

2 out of 5 stars

Model for model, a 159 will cost you a lot less than you’d pay for an equivalent BMW or Mercedes. That sounds good, but be careful, because the Alfa’s resale values can’t get close to those of the Germans, so you’ll find yourself more out of pocket when you sell the car. Running costs are no better than average, either.
Quality & Reliability

2 out of 5 stars

The interior looks smart and is sturdily built, but the materials can’t match the appeal of those of the 159’s German rivals. Worryingly, Alfa Romeo hasn’t performed well for reliability in recent JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, while owners also reckon that repairs are pricey and dealer service is poor.
Safety & Security

4 out of 5 stars

Safety kit is comprehensive. Stability control and front, side and curtain airbags are standard, along with a driver’s knee ’bag. There are also front-seat head restraints that move to minimise whiplash injuries. The 159 has been crash-tested by Euro NCAP and awarded a maximum five-star score. Its security showing is impressive, too.

Behind The Wheel

3 out of 5 stars

The Alfa has a key-slot and push-button ignition system, but the rest of the dashboard is refreshingly fuss-free. The instruments are big and bold, while the controls for the stereo and heating functions are clearly labelled and easy to use. The two-way steering wheel adjustment could do with a little more movement for reach, but most drivers will be able to get comfortable.
Space & Practicality

2 out of 5 stars

You won’t want for passenger space in the 159. There’s plenty of leg- and headroom up front and generous – if not class-leading – space in the rear. Four tall adults will be perfectly comfortable. However, the Sportwagon’s boot is only marginally bigger than the saloon’s, so this isn't the best estate car around.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

Even the entry-level car has alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control and four electric windows, while Turismo models add Bluetooth, larger alloys, cruise control and folding wing mirrors. On top of that, Lusso brings a unique interior trim, a Visibility Pack and sports dials. At the top of the range, TI models have loads of toys, plus sports suspension and 19-inch alloys.