USED Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon (97 - 06)

My car

I purchased the vehicle when just over 12 months old, with a low mileage. I can only say that I have been more than happy with it and have found it a pleasure to drive. I would not hesitate to buy another!!

My car

I have owned one of the early 2.4 JTD Sportswagons for three years and covered 60,000 miles. The car looks and drives like a dream and I am very pleased with it. The diesel engine is very tough, very smooth, very gutsy and very responsive.

My only real complaint is the rear suspension arms, which have needed replacement.

Fortunately, I managed to get a 25% discount on purchase, so I am not too concerned when calculating the total cost of purchase. However, had I paid nearer to list price, I think I might have been more concerned.

The recognised service outlets let down the total ownership experience. However there are compensations when it comes to driving. This is a car with real personality!

My car

I've done over 100,000 miles in the 'old' 10 valve 2.4 JTD, mainly cross country, it has never let me down, and has on ocassion returned 52 mpg.

The suspension is not 'up for' Irish roads, and has required many new components, but the car is a joy to drive, with the huge surge of power mid range making overtaking very stress free.

Some dealers are shocking, but I have found a reasonable one. The car was once returned from service with a fuel leak, the air mass flow sensor was unplugged, and they lost my keys! That the car survived in spite of the dealers is testament enough.

My car

Having owned a 156 1.8 saloon for 2 years in a previous job, I was already an Alfa convert - having loved everything about it apart from the small boot.

I moved jobs and had a brief dalliance with a Freelander, which was a terrible mistake and as soon as the opportunity arose I changed it for a Sportwagon.

Pre-registered from Dixons in Gabbiano Blue, it looks stunning.

I would say that the 1.8 is a little slow off the mark but it’s outstanding for cruising. Trips around France confirm this in spades. It hasn’t got the best luggage space, but it’s adequate.

The ride is lumpy around town and it’s been recalled for some replacement bushes to the rear suspension (under warranty) which have improved things.

In the cabin all is well and solidly put together. The only issue I’ve had is with the radio. One reason I bought the car is because you can pop your sim card from your mobile phone into a slot in the radio and you have a hands free car phone - no messing with ear pieces etc. Howver, it didn’t work with my phone.