Car: Alfa Romeo 147 range
Prices: £15,215-£19,315 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 11-14
Emissions: 153-211g/km
Performance: [2.0] 0-60mph 9.3s Max Speed 129 mph
Fuel Consumption: [2.0] (urban) 25.2 (extra urban) 44.1 (combined) 34.1
Safety: Twin front, window & side airbags, VDC, ABS, traction control,
Dimensions: Length/Width/Height, 4430/1745/1415mm
The New Alfa 147 Range - A New Twist on Favorite Compacts
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There has always been a lot of style and class in the Alfa Romeo 147 Range, but some new touches make it even more appealing than ever. Before looking at the new design features, though, take in what makes the Alfa Romeo 147 Range special in both style and functionality.
The Alfa 147 Range includes models with several different engines, from the 1.6-Litre TS and the 2.0-Liter TS gas engines to the 1.9 and 1.9 16V diesel engines. All these engines have acceptable fuel mileage figures, but the diesel engines are the more fuel efficient of the group. The engines of the Alfa Romeo 147 Range are packed with power, especially the 2.0-Litre TS which gives 150bhp, and the 1.9 16V diesel. These engines have proven themselves in past years, and they are as good as ever now.
All the models have the signature Alfa Romeo 147 body style with distinctive lines and classy exteriors. The paint finishes have been upgraded on the new Alfa Romeos to produce more beautiful and lasting surfaces. The uniqueness of body lines are now reflected in the new shapes of the headlamps, which are elongated, tapered and pointed for a sophisticated effect. The headlamps have also been fitted with 3-light clusters for a look that is both attractive and functional. A newly designed bumper with inset fog lights improves the looks and usefulness of the car as well.
Some of the new features are have little to do with practicality and everything to do with status, beauty and desires. The new look of the interior, including more elegant upholstery details and controls, is great for boosting status and bolstering the ego. The chrome strip at the base of the hatch is attractive, if nothing else. A nod is given to the nice lines of the Alfa Romeo 147 Range with a reshaped rear bumper and hatch.
The Alfa Romeo 147 Range cars handle well, cornering smoothly with their light steering system and taking bumps graciously with their advanced wishbone and McPherson suspension. The hatchback design does not hold them back from reaching a high level of performance and drivability.
Speaking of a great driving experience, the extras of these cars make them a pleasure. You have CD and radio, controlled on the steering wheel. A good dose of climate control will warm up your coldest nights and cool off your warmest days. The seating, mirrors and controls are situated in a comfortable way to make our drive not only bearable but pleasant as well. Cruise control, a comfortable armrest and interior trim detailing complete the package.
It could be that the Alfa Romeo 147 Range has been popular partly because of its reasonable price tag. While it may not be a bargain basement range car, it is certainly in the budgets of most new car buyers today. At such an affordable price, people are likely to consider it in passing. The real adventure begins, though, when the casual looker sits behind the wheel of one of the Alfa Romeo 147 Range, sees the luxury and feels the power. It is not easy to turn that exquisite ride down once you have had the experience.
