Alfa Romeo

there is one aspect of the 159 that sneaks it back towards technology leadership: the recent addition of the 1750 engine option, which embraces the European trend for small-capacity, big-output engines. It's a 1742cc (so it really should be a 1740) unit with direct injection, variable valve timing and a turbocharger, making a truly impressive 147kW/320Nm yet still returning 8.1 litres per 100km in the combined cycle.

The claim of a diesel-like peak torque figure at just 1400rpm isn't always born out in practice - the throttle response can be tepid in low-gear, low-speed driving. But once you get into the mid-range, the 1.7-litre powerplant is beautifully linear and exceptionally crisp as you climb up the rev range.

It's certainly enough to give the very familiar (I mean that in a nice way) 159 a renewed lease on life, although in these days of two-pedal dual-clutch Alfas some might be surprised/disappointed to find that the 159 1750 only comes with a manual transmission. Once upon a time, you wouldn't have considered an Alfa Romeo with anything else. But times have changed.

Times have especially changed in this segment. The 159 - especially the Ti model, which rides 20mm lower than standard - still feels pretty sharp on the road. But there's a whole new generation of rival models like the Peugeot 508 and Volvo S60 which are new to the market and generations ahead in terms of dynamic sophistication. The 159 is still fun, but the ride/handling compromise feels unresolved on bumpy New Zealand back roads: not nimble enough to be truly sporty, not compliant
enough for executive status. The cabin is also dated compared with the latest generation of Alfa Romeos, but in a way that I really rather like.