Seven versions of the new Alfa 159 Sportwagon, priced from £21,095 to £29,350 on-the-road will be available from launch, with a choice of five powerplants. Three petrol engines – 1.9 litre 160bhp and 2.2 litre 185bhp 4-cylinder units, and a 3.2 litre 260bhp V6 – combine Alfa Romeo’s JTS (Jet Thrust Stoichiometric) direct injection technology with continuously variable valve timing.
With specific power outputs of between 81 and 85 bhp/litre, and almost 90% of maximum torque available at just 2,000rpm, all three JTS units offer significant fuel savings and comply with Euro IV emission limits.
The two diesel engine options which complete the launch range are the 1.9 litre 16 valve 150bhp four cylinder unit, and a 2.4 litre 20 valve 200bhp five cylinder powerplant, both of which feature the JTDM (MultiJet) common rail direct injection technology.
Both units also feature variable geometry turbocharging, and incorporate a ‘for life’, maintenance-free particulate trap in anticipation of Euro V emissions regulations.
All five engines are mated to six-speed manual gearboxes. A six-speed automatic transmission will become available on the 1.9 JTDM Lusso version of the Alfa 159 Sportwagon later in 2006.
The 159 Sportwagon comes with up to eight airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and a fully integrated fire prevention system, electronic braking, traction control and stability systems fitted as standard. ABS is combined with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution over all four wheels, and a Vehicle Dynamic Control unit enhances cornering stability. VDC is further augmented by ASR to limit wheelspin during acceleration; MSR to modulate braking torque when changing down through the gears, and a unique hill holder function to facilitate smooth hill starts.
The new car has a wheelbase 105mm longer than its predecessor, improving both front and rear passenger legroom. Moreover, despite being less tall than the Alfa 156 Sportwagon, the new Alfa Romeo offers improved front and rear door access and an increase in interior headroom, particularly in the rear.
Seven versions of the new Alfa 159 Sportwagon will be available at launch, in Turismo and Lusso trim, as follows: 1.9 JTS Turismo £21,095; 2.2 JTS Turismo £22,095; 2.2 JTS Lusso £23,495; 3.2 JTS Q4 Lusso £29,350; 1.9 JTDM Turismo £21,595; 1.9 JTDM Lusso £22,995 and 2.4 JTDM Lusso £25,495.
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