WHENEVER a new diesel-powered motor enters the market the usual line from the company's PR department is this: "You won't believe it's a diesel, it's so fast and refined."
Sometimes they are nearly telling the truth, and sometimes it's obvious they are trying to con you.
Well in the cast of the Alfa Romeo 147 I tested last week, for once the PR speak was just about spot on.
The classy Italian family hatchback gave me more fun than I expected with stunning performance, great handling and a sound which is pure vintage Alfa.
You can't entirely get rid of the diesel knock at tick-over, but once under way the Alfa sounds and performs as well - if not better - than its petrol brothers.
The 147 came on the scene at the beginning of 2001 and in the spring of this year the Italians, who know a thing or two about diesels, decided to slot in a 1.9 oil-burning engine to broaden choice. And a couple of months ago they went further and introduced the 16-valve JTD which offers 140 bhp, accleration from 0-62 mph in just over nine seconds and on to a top speed of 129 mph.
Most impressive is its vast amount of torque (pulling power) which is available in every gear, even as low down at 2,500 rpm. It's great for overtaking and I was never in doubt when I decided to get ahead of slowcoaches.
A note here for the increasing number of drivers who appear to think overtaking is a crime, never attempt it, and add to other drivers' frustration: It's not illegal. Try it some time, you'll be surprised how it cuts down on everyone's journey time.
As for economy, the diesel is a real money-saver, despite its high performance. I managed to get 44 mpg out of the 147 over the week, and I wasn't hanging about. Its a six-gear machine and on long runs slipping into top means a big saving at the pumps.
The style of the Italian hatch is as slick as its handling, with a nicely aggressive front, rakish side panels and a cute back end. Thanks to the disguised door handles at the back, the five-door version I tested has the appearance of a performance coupe.
Handling is good, thanks to a stiff bodyshell and good underpinnings. It takes tight bends in its stride and most potholes and bumps are ironed out. ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution mean the 147 stops quickly and without fuss.
The model comes in two specification levels, Turismo and Lusso. Both have plenty of standard equipment but the Lusso I had on test added extra goodies, such as electric windows all round, heated and adjustable door mirrors, multi function display and trip computer, automatic dual zone climate control, stereo radio/CD and cruise control.
Build quality is good with nice interior fabrics, firm supportive seats, a reasonable amount of storage space in the cabin and boot. Leg-room in the back is nothing to shout about but would be comfortable enough for the average frame.
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTD Lusso 16v
Price: £16,170
Mechanical: 140 bhp, 1,910 cc turbo diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 129 mph
0-62 mph: 9.1secs
Combined mpg: 44
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 157g/km
BiK Rating: 18%
Warranty: 3 yrs/ 60,000 miles; 8 yrs anti-rust; 3 yrs paint