IT is one of the best kept secrets, but now more will learn of the undeniable attractions of the Alfa Romeo 159 TI.
Until recently only a handful of carefully selected Alfa Romeo models carried the two-letter suffix for Turismo Internazionale, but with 12 models now available it's changing. And about time.
There are too few performance saloons and estates which really deserve their image, but the Alfa Romeo 159 TI really does stand out.
Originally developed as well equipped, comfortable cars with a strong sporting appeal, the latest TI series is available in saloon and sportwagon bodystyles with 2.2 or V6 3.2 petrol engines or 2.4 turbo diesel, manual or semi-automatic boxes and two or four wheel drive. That should please just about all tastes and pockets with a range running from £23,400 to £30,650 for the four door versions plus a further £1,100 for the sportwagon derivatives.
What's more it is still a comparatively rare model when lined up against rivals so you really get a good deal in terms of choice and exclusivity. You also buy one of the best looking designs on the road today. It is, without doubt, something which stirs the heart as much as it pleases the eye.
I tested the mid-range 2.4 JTDm TI Saloon which provides excellent performance combined with very good economy so you can have your cake and eat it.
The proven five-cylinder engine is one of the gutsiest on the market but it's also one of the smoothest and most tractable in addition to providing excellent fuel returns. Good on start-up, it pulls well through all gears and when you settle down on main roads and motorways it cruises very quietly.
The six-speed manual box has a reassuringly positive change action with a moderately heavy clutch and a long take up to biting point, but the ratios are extremely well matched to the engine's performance curve.
You are never left wondering if there is enough power to overtake or if it will be hard and noisy work on long journeys. There is and it isn't.
The highly adjustable rack and pinion steering seems to have a tighter turning circle than I remember of big Alfa's of old so it is more responsive and manoeuvrable while the biggest brakes in the series are up to their task and haul down speed in an easy and quick manner. Their balance between power and progression, resistance and result is finely honed.
The secondary controls are on large stalks or big buttons and come quickly to hand, also operating with a reassuring precision. Deeply hooded instruments housing clearly marked gauges with distinctive red background in the TI cover the essentials.
I found the dual zone air conditioning excellent for keeping the interior at a desired temperature level and it is backed up by powered windows. Simple and efficient.
The oddments room in the Alfa Romeo 159 is good throughout the cabin and the saloon's boot holds 405 cubic metres, some 40 less than the wagon. My only gripe with the boot was that the opening is on the small side even if the capacity is good.
For people, the four doors give easy access or egress and once inside the room is very good throughout. Seats are all well shaped and supportive but the front pair in particular have an excellent and wide adjustment range and really locate their occupants during hard cornering and come with heating in the TI.
Ride is very supple for a sporting saloon but it does not roll or wallow as a result. Handling is pin sharp and grip is tenacious and reassuring.
Parking needs a cautious approach as the deep tail hides some low items when reversing so the standard TI parking sensors are welcome, but otherwise the vision is clear, with deep windows, bright lights and big wipers.
I can see the Alfa Romeo 159 TI coming as a pleasant surprise to any enthusiastic driver brought up behind the wheel of rivals because it not only delivers a lot in dynamic terms but it looks and sounds simply wonderful. It is so good it is an understatement in style and sporting ability.
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo 159 2.4 JTDm TI 4dr
Price: £25,755
Mechanical: 210bhp, 2,387cc, 5cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 144mph
0-62mph: 8.1 secs
Combined mpg: 41.5
Insurance group: 14
C02 emissions: 179g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000, 3yrs paint, 8yrs anti-rust