Alfa Romeo 159

Honestly, I understand why some enthusiasts say you have to own an Alfa Romeo at least once in your life. This 159 SW TI may not be the most modern or the fastest car, but it has something that many recent cars have lost: a real personality.

I was just looking for a practical gas-powered station wagon. A BMW 3 Series or a Focus ST SW were among my options. And then this 159 came along. In the TI version, with its anthracite wheels, sport seats, and Giugiaro-designed body, it was impossible to remain indifferent. Even after fifteen years, it still turns heads.

Under the hood, the 200 ch 1750 TBi is a pleasant surprise. The engine delivers strong power and plenty of torque, making the car a real pleasure to drive every day. Whether on the highway or on smaller roads, its performance is more than adequate.

The handling is also impressive for a front-wheel-drive station wagon. The steering is precise, the front end feels confident, and the chassis makes you want to tackle one curve after another.

It’s not all perfect: the gearshift lacks a bit of precision, and the multimedia system’s user interface feels dated. But even at 160,000 km, the interior is holding up remarkably well, and no unwanted noise spoils the atmosphere.

i bought this alfa romeo 159 when it had 96,000 km, and drove it up to 220,000 km. It's a sedan, not necessarily sporty, but very comfortable, a good tourer. I had the EGR valve problem from the start, but once it was changed, no more worries. I also had the problem of the windows falling into the doors, but this seems to be a classic problem for the 2005/2006 generation. When I sold it at 220,000 km, it was time to change the clutch. Well maintained, I think it's a car that can easily go over 300,000 km.

A very good tourer, but don't be afraid of the fuel consumption, a few whims, but the pleasure behind the wheel makes up for it.

I've only had this 159 for a few days, and I'm still a bit torn. On the one hand, I think the car is gorgeous. In the TI version with the 19-inch wheels and sport seats, it really has a presence that you don't find in German station wagons from the same era.

On the other hand, not everything is perfect. The 1750 TBi engine runs well, the 200 ch are definitely there, and acceleration is very smooth, but I was expecting something a little more "Alfa" in terms of the engine’s character. It’s powerful, but it lacks a bit of excitement.

Another thing that disappoints me a little: the TI suspension is quite firm. The car handles very well, but it's not always very comfortable for everyday driving. The gearshift also lacks precision.
On the other hand, the interior is a wonderful surprise. Even with over 150,000 km on it, there’s virtually no background noise, and the TI seats are superb. I also had an engine warning light come on after revving the engine, which worried me a bit, although the problem seems to have gone away.

All in all, I don't regret my purchase. It has a few flaws, but it also has something you don't find everywhere. And honestly, in a parking lot, I still turn my head when I park it.