Alfa Romeo 147 2005 Review

Maybe it's the larger front badge and angular, more accentuated headlights which tend to dominate the front.

In comparison, the large expanse of paintwork seemed to draw attention to the smaller beak-like grille of the old car.

It is a perennial problem for car designers when trying to pen a follow-up design to a stunner like the Alfa 147.

Either way, it's still a fine looking piece of machinery. As well as the more contemporary front treatment, the new car gets revised rear lights, hatch trim and bumpers and 17-inch alloys that are now standard across the range.

Although available in three and five-door models, we unfortunately will not be seeing a new 147 GTA.

Alfa says the cost of panel work compared to the number of cars it sells does not warrant the cost. We will, however, continue to take the firebreathing 3.2-litre V6 in its current form (thank goodness).

We reckon the chunky 147 hatch is the best looking model in the current Alfa range. The 2.0-litre Twin Spark engine produces a maximum 110kW of power at 6300pm and 181Nm of torque at 3800rpm.

It's not the most powerful engine around but it is a willing worker and produces a wonderful exhaust note. The gearing is rather tall and you need to flog it to get the car off the line quickly.

Drive is through the front wheels, with a variety of electronic aids to ensure the wheels remain in contact with the bitumen. The engine is mated to a slick, five-speed manual box and driving the car is a rewarding experience for the enthusiast.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 9.3 seconds on the way to a top speed of 208km/h. The big doors in our three-door test car are heavy and open wide for acces to a rather claustrophobic rear seat. Rear leg room is good with comfortable seating for two adults in the back but belts for three.

The 147 is well equipped, with stability control, traction control and electronic brake force distribution standard.

Safety features include six airbags, ABS brakes and a fire prevention system.

Luxury items include power windows and mirrors and locks are included, as is cruise control, trip computer and dual zone climate control airconditioning.

Alfa claims fuel consumption of 7.0 litres for every 100km but we found it to be more like 10.0L/100km during testing.

The 147 Twin Spark is priced from $35,990.