ALFA has been redesigning its 156 range, introducing new engines and upping the specification.
Given the award-winning dishy looks of the 156, amending them is a gamble - remember how Hyundai spoiled the second generation of its dashing Coupe? But the Italians know a thing or two about style.
The face is bolder, with a reshaped and bigger grille, new headlights set-up and a less dominating bumper. Lights and bumper at the rear are also amended.
But stylist Giugiaro has been careful not to mess with the 156's flowing profile and the fine lines which almost subconsciously delight the eye. Good job.
The new engines available are, arguably, even more important. Parent company Fiat developed the common rail technology which changed the nature of diesel engines, and now that revolution is advanced with the Multijet system, here in 1.9-litre 16v 140bhp and 2.4 20v 175bhp form.
Without going deeply into the technology, the principle of dividing the main injection into a number of smaller ones under electronic control is reckoned to produce smoother, quieter combustion, reduced emissions and increased performance.
Certainly the 1.9 JTD 140bhp Multijet engine in the tested 156 Sportwagon delivered the goods.
Smooth to the point where several different passengers were surprised to learn they were in a diesel, the engine provided rapid acceleration and remarkably easy pace, while scarcely bothering the fuel gauge - 59mpg on the open road.
Even fifth and sixth gears provide decent lift-off, so while the easy-change gearbox is pleasant, you don't have to use it that often.
I'm a big fan of Alfa's existing engines, especially the petrol Twin Sparks, but Multijet is highly impressive. Just be aware that you could probably push up to the 100mph mark without noticing.
The 156's grip, super cornering and steering feel, even in the stretched, semi-estate Sportwagon, lull you well into the comfort zone.
Shame, then, that the actual ride has to give second best to its main competitors, the car being too inclined to hop on road imperfections.
That apart, comfort is good, with absorbing, securing seats that, in Veloce spec, are in a very attractive Alfatex upholstery.
There's liberal use of metal facings and edgings, the usual 156 deep-pocket red-eyed dials, and that wonderful curvaceous styling. But it's practical too, with good room for passengers throughout.
Even at Turismo level the 156 Sportwagon provides six airbags, air conditioning, traction and stability controls, ABS with electronic brake force distrubution, alloys, leather steering wheel, front and rear armrests, front foglights and CD player.
Veloce additions include dual zone climate control, steering wheel audio controls and rear electric windows, and there's an imaginative options list to dip into, including the Connect info-telematic system.
I called the 156 Sportwagon a semi-estate and it is more lifestyle than load-carrier. With seats up, the rear offers a modest capacity of 360 litres (roof rails are a cost option), and there's hindrance from an awkward entry shape, a highish lip and a narrowing depth as it meets the rear suspension.
It's quite a common problem in this breed, so if you want acres of luggage room go for something that calls itself an estate, and is.
For anything else the Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon will do you fine and with style and grace.
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon 1.9 JTD 140 Veloce
Price: £18,625
Mechanical: 140bhp, 1,910cc 16-valve turbodiesel with Multijet direct injection driving front wheel s via 6-spd manual transmission
Max speed: 126mph
0-62mph: 9.7secs
Combined mpg: 47.9
Insurance group: 13
CO2 emissions: 157g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 8yrs anti-rust