Best Value Motoring

So you might be thinking, Alfas will break down all the time, I’d rather stick with the Germans. But just look at it! Yes, I know, I want one too especially at just over AU$30,000. I know I’d rather take this over a Honda Accord Euro for the same money. Alfa Romeo has always been known to build exciting but unreliable cars. In recent years, they have been working hard on reversing that image. They might not be at Japanese levels yet, but they are on par with the likes of Audi. The Selespeed transmission has been known to have electrical gremlins so to keep it simple, take the manual.

All 159s come comprehensively equipped with leather, cruise and rear parking sensors. They’re also safe with a 5 Star NCAP crash test result and 7 airbags. This base model 2.2l engine is charismatic and will bring the 159 to the ton in 8.8 seconds while returning 9.4l/100kms, not top of the class but not bad either. The leather seats are fantastic and the ride quality is good. Servicing costs will be higher than the typical Japanese but no more so than the Germans. This car is still on factory warranty, so it’s probably worthwhile to maintain main dealer logbook servicing. Beyond that, a specialist will be able to provide better value.

Pros: Distinctive looks, sporty engine, Alfa’s best effort so far in quality and reliability

Cons: Will be hard to shake off the tarnished image of reliability, expensive to service

Via Carsales