Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Used Alfa Romeo 159 review: 2006-2009

The mid-sized 159 like all Alfas it looked like sex on wheels.

Few badges polarize opinions like Alfa Romeo; it's one of those brands you either love or loathe, either way it's usually with a passion. Most people acknowledge that Alfas look great and deliver an engaging drive experience like few others, but just as many would say they wouldn't buy one because of the brand's reputation for poor quality and unreliability. 

It's fair to say that the company has worked hard to lift its game in recent times to put that reputation behind them, but despite that there remains a lingering doubt about its success at eradicating the things that can make its cars frustrating to own. 

The mid-sized 159 arrived in 2006 with the promise that the woes of the past were indeed in the past. Like all Alfas it looked like sex on wheels. Few carmakers produce more attractive cars than Alfa and the 159 was no exception with its timeless athletic lines. 

Buyers could choose between a four-door sedan and a wagon, there was a choice of two diesels and two petrol engines, and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive

The 159 is a driver's car, which is obvious when you slide into the body-hugging driver's seat and survey the dash and controls. Like the exterior, the cabin is also a design delight, with instruments nicely placed and easily read, and the controls spread around in a way that is logical and makes them easy to use. 

The front seats, however, won't be for everyone. While supportive, their heavily contoured shape will suit some bodies, but not others. While seated behind the wheel the limited visibility becomes clear. The high tail and thick pillars make vision from the driver's seat an issue, one that drivers need to come to terms with. 

IN THE SHOP

Rusted on Alfa owners are willing to accept things in their cars that others simply wouldn't tolerate. Committed owners are prepared to write them off as 'character', others say they are character building. Anyone not familiar with Alfas should approach the 159 with caution to make sure they aren't left driving a car they can't stand. 

But don't be deterred, as the 159 is generally reliable with no major flaws. Those things that detract from its appeal are a result of variable build quality. Have an Alfa specialist check over any potential purchase, they will be familiar with the issues that can affect a 159. 

Sloppy build quality can result in rattles and squeaks in the body and trim that can be hard to find and eliminate. They can also be expensive to fix. Also check over the interior trim, looking for bits and pieces that are poised to fall off. 

On the road the diesel engine can be noisy, not a problem, just something you need to accept and live with. The ride can be firm, too firm for some, so make sure you're happy to live with that day to day. 

Like all modern cars servicing is crucial, so look for a service record to confirm that all maintenance has been done according to the book, and preferably done by an experienced Alfa mechanic.

IN A CRASH

A 5-star tick of approval from ANCAP says it all, the 159 is a safe car. It comes with front, side and head airbags along with ABS braking, traction control and stability control.

UNDER THE PUMP

With a choice of diesel and petrol engines 159 buyers have plenty to choose from. The diesels are the best pump performers, both getting around 7.0 L/100 km, while the V6 is the thirstiest of the bunch at more than 11 L/100 km.

AT A GLANCE 

Price new: $55,990 to $77,990
Engine: 2.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, 2.4-litre 5-cylinder turbodiesel, 3.2-litre V6 petrol 
Power/torque: 136 kW/230 Nm (2.2), 110 kW/320 Nm (2.0TD), 147 kW/400 Nm (2.4TD), 191 kW/322 Nm (V6)
Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive.
Economy: 6.8 L/100 km (2.4TD), 7.1 L/100 km (2.0 TD), 9.4 L/100 km (2.2), 11.5 L/100 km (V6) 
Body: 4-door sedan, 4-door wagon
Variants: Base, Ti
Safety: 5-star ANCAP

Pricing

Year Price From Price To
2009 $4,070 $10,010
2008 $4,070 $10,010
2007 $4,070 $9,790
2006 $4,070 $9,460

View all Alfa Romeo 159 pricing and specifications

Pricing guides

$6,765
Based on third party pricing data
Lowest Price
$4,070
Highest Price
$9,460

Range and Specs

VehicleSpecsPrice*
2.4 JTD 2.4L, Diesel, 6 SP MAN $4,730 – 6,930 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 2006 2.4 JTD Pricing and Specs
Sportwagon 2.4 JTD 2.4L, Diesel, 6 SP MAN $4,950 – 7,260 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 2006 Sportwagon 2.4 JTD Pricing and Specs
2.2 JTS 2.2L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $4,070 – 6,050 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 2006 2.2 JTS Pricing and Specs
Sportwagon 2.2 JTS 2.2L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $4,290 – 6,380 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 2006 Sportwagon 2.2 JTS Pricing and Specs
Graham Smith
Contributing Journalist

Share

Other cars to consider

2006 BMW 3 Series
2006 BMW 3 Series

2006 BMW 3 Series

Price guide from: $3,250 – $14,990
2005 Chrysler 300C
2005 Chrysler 300C

2005 Chrysler 300C

Pricing guide from: $11,110 – 15,180
2004 Audi A4
2004 Audi A4

2004 Audi A4

Pricing guide from: $12,650 – 16,830
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication.  Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.