After its introduction at last year’s Paris Motor Show, Alfa Romeo is finally launching its 2011 model year 159 saloon and Sportwagon range onto the UK market. The updated 159 lineup is enhanced with a new 136 bhp 2.0 JTDM diesel engine, as well as with new interior trim and equipment.
The 2.0-liter JTDM is a Euro-5 diesel unit equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger delivering 136 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of peak torque at 1,750 rpm. Linked to a 6-speed manual gearbox, it allows the sedan to complete the 0-62mph (100km/h) sprint in 9.9 seconds (SW: 10.1 sec) and to reach a top speed of 126 mph (202km/h).
The sedan returns a combined fuel economy of 55.4 mpg UK (5.1 lt/100km) with CO2 emissions of 134 g/km, while the Sportwagon is rated at 54.3 mpg (5.2 lt/100km) with 137g/km of CO2.
In addition to the 2.0 JTDM 136 bhp, Alfa Romeo also offers the 159 with two more engines in the UK, a 1.75-liter turbo petrol with 200 bhp and a 2.0-liter JTDM turbo diesel with 170 bhp, both compliant with Euro 5 standards.
The revised for the 2011 model year 159 range is available in three trim specifications, the entry level Turismo, the comfort-orientated Lusso and sporty TI.
All models are fitted as standard with six airbags, electric front and rear windows, dual zone automatic climate control, new sports cloth upholstery, cruise control, front fog lights, car radio with CD/MP3 player and eight speakers, Blue&Me Bluetooth hands-free system, black leather steering with remote controls, black leather gear knob and 16” alloy wheels.
The Lusso model adds several comfort features such as leather upholstery, sports dials with white illumination, darkened interior headlining, black aluminium centre console and steering wheel trim inserts, dark chrome painted dashboard and door trim inserts, rear parking sensors, stainless steel kick plates and 17” Multi-spoke design alloy wheels.
The sportier TI is distinguished by the bespoke 19-inch alloys, side skirts, lowered sports suspension, red painted brake calipers, wraparound seats trimmed in black Sports leather and Alcantara, sports pedal unit in aluminium and kick plates with the TI logo.
