Turin, 31 January 2006
The forthcoming Geneva Motor Show will see the world debut of the Alfa 159
Sportwagon and the Alfa Spider, thus completing the range set to take Alfa
Romeo into the future.
The Alfa 159 Sportwagon represents a consummate blend of Italian style with
the performance and handling of a genuine sportscar, combined with the
flexibility of use and versatility of space you would expect from a high class
estate. Like the saloon – the total length (4,660 millimetres) is exactly the same
– the new model has been given a decidedly sporty look, without that look of
‘added-on volume’ which characterises the typical station wagon. The sleek
lines of the long roof give it a coupé feel, as does the roof spoiler and the edgy
aerodynamic styling, while the superbly functional interior offers great load
volume. All in all Alfa 159 Sportwagon guarantees the performance and dynamic
handling of a sportscar with a size of boot in line with that of a high class station
wagon, while also offering a versatility which satisfies the tastes and demands
of the modern lifestyle.
The Alfa 159 Sportwagon is available in 2 or 3 versions (depending on the
country), 12 bodywork colours and 5 interior colourways. It offers three new JTS
engines with double continuous variable valve timing (the 260 bhp 3.2 V6 24v,
the 185 bhp 2.2 and the 160 bhp 1.9) and three turbodiesel Multijet engines (the
200 bhp 2.4 JTDM 20v, the 150 bhp 1.9 JTDM 16v and the 120 bhp 1.9 JTDM 8v).
All of these are fitted with new manual six-speed gearboxes, and some versions
also offer automatic gears and robotised Selespeed gear lever, also six speed.
Without counting the fact that the range offers all clients, even the most
demanding, the opportunity to select from various different options and
innovative features.
Also debuting in Geneva is the Alfa Spider. A complex, sophisticated creature
which both recalls the glorious Alfa Romeo tradition in this sector (from the
Giulietta Spider in the ‘50s to the Duetto and the Nineties model), and rolls out
some cutting edge solutions in terms of mechanical specifications and
engines.
The new Spider is a generously-sized two-seater – 1,830 millimetres wide,
4,396 long and 1,367 high – characterised by elongated rear lights and four
exhaust terminals which accentuate the impression of great temperament. The
interior of the Alfa Spider is inviting and gorgeously sophisticated, thanks to the
use of sumptuous materials and added value features (as standard, depending
on the version): from the automatic dual-zone climate control to the steering
wheel mounted radio controls, from VDC to cruise control. Available in two
versions, the client can choose his or her Alfa Spider to be fitted with the
sparkling 185 bhp 2.2 JTS engine or the powerful 260 bhp 3.2 JTS.
Lastly, both Alfa Romeo models ensure outstanding dynamic performance
thanks to high double wishbone suspension at the front and Multilink at the rear.
Along with great ride comfort, the Alfa Spider and Alfa 159 Sportwagon boast a
sporty configuration and the use of state of the art ‘Q4’ four wheel drive
(available on the 260 bhp 3.2 versions). What’s more – like the saloon version
which was recently awarded 5 prestigious Euro NCAP stars – the two Alfa
Romeo models once more confirm the utmost attention which goes into all
aspects regarding safety, as well as offering the most sophisticated electronic
vehicle dynamic control devices.
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