The Alfa Romeo brand name is one of the most emotive in the automobile world, with a sporting heritage that stretches way, way back. The subject of this test – the 156 GTA manual sedan – captures all the excitement, exhilaration and emotion of the Alfa Romeo spirit, perhaps better than any other Alfa model of recent times. At the heart of the 156 GTA is an engine that is just sensational. This 3.2 litre quad cam V6 provides levels of throttle response and performance that are extremely satisfying, and on top of that it also sounds great and even looks terrific.

To ensure that the 156 GTA gets its considerable power safely and effectively to the ground, the drivetrain, suspension, steering, wheels and tyres, and braking systems have all been extensively revised and upgraded.

When you combine this highly specified mechanical package with the 156 GTA’s unique styling cues and the abundance of luxury, safety and convenience equipment that’s standard, you end up with a very capable and desirable sports/luxury sedan.

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