The Alfa 159
Published: 13th June 2005
Alfa Romeo 159
Styling
The new Alfa 159 is a prestigious saloon that combines refined Italian styling with the sporty elegance typical of Alfa Romeo. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro in collaboration with the Alfa Romeo Styling Centre, the new car has an elegant, sinuous line, which combines generous dimensions with the compactness typical of Alfa Romeo sportiness: the car is 4,660 millimetres long, 1,828 mm wide and 1,417 high, with a wheelbase of 2,700 millimetres.
Starting with the strong, essential front, which is dominated by the large Alfa Romeo shield. The line of the entire car springs from here, combining a light stylistic "aggressiveness" with strikingly elegant forms. This impression is underlined by the lateral air intakes, the beautiful light clusters and the deep "V" of the bonnet which underlines the presence of a generous engine, the compact, tapered passenger compartment and the wings which represent the widest point of the body.
The rear end with its horizontal design, speaks the same language as the front: from the curve of the rear window over the rear wheels to the wrapround light clusters, small spoiler and double chromed exhaust tail-pipe that increase the sporty impression.
The profile of the Alfa 159 reminds us that the car's elegance
is based on harmonious relations: on one hand the relation between
the long bonnet and the compact passenger compartment gives the
car prestige, while the ratio between the windows and the sides
gives it a sporty personality, highlighted by the compactness of
the cabin, an effect created primarily by the pillars (the front
pillar set back and the "elbow" shaped rear pillar). The
deep slash in the side also emphasises the car's sleekness. Like
the external styling, the interior of the Alfa 159, designed by
the Alfa Romeo Styling Centre, combines superb styling and a sporty
personality. Starting with the excellent driving position, which
is defined by precise ratios between the pedals, the seat, the steering
wheel and the gearbox, evolved to provide maximum control and comfort.
The interior is developed around the driver in the characteristic
"cockpit" structure, which incorporates the classic three-spoke
steering wheel, the two ribs of the lip, the instruments on the
console and the gear lever, achieving continuity between the facia
and the console. The uniformity of the stylistic language is also
evident in the circular shape of the analogue dials, the air vents,
and the buttons and knobs. Even the symbols and graphics conform
to the same pattern, and the principle of immediate clarity and
easy legibility.
The front passenger seat differs for the uncluttered, enveloping space of the facia which links up with the instrument panel to enhance the sense of roominess and comfort. The supportive, sporty front and rear seats reiterate this idea, painstakingly made with top quality materials, paying great attention to the overstitching, and the traditional detail of the segments and piping. The interior of the new Alfa 159 embodies the balanced combination of elegance and sportiness that is the hallmark of all Alfa Romeo cars. It is underlined by essential, sober, clean lines and superb materials: quality fabrics, precious fine grain leather, aluminium that is cold to touch, and exquisite craftsmanship with the appeal of artisan handiwork.
Alfa Romeo 159
Our Alfa Romeo 159 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK 159 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £18,945 - £29,890
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 16
We have road tested the Alfa Romeo 159, to read our in-depth car review:
Alfa Romeo 159 Review - Sep 2006
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 28th Nov 2008
