03.07.2004 The elegant and practical Alfa Romeo 147 is set to undergo a mid-life face-lift later this year, these photographs are the first to publicly capture the new car, albeit clad with camouflage

The elegant and practical Alfa Romeo 147 is set to undergo a mid-life face-lift later this year. These photographs are the first to publicly capture the new car, albeit clad with camouflage and gaffer tape.  

Stylistically the car will bear a strong resemblance with the recently facelifted 156 and 166, with a ‘proper’ grille replacing the current minimalist affair.

Both front and rear bumpers will be redesigned to give a more aggressive stance, however the front will still continue the traditional split-grille theme as on the current 147 and GT coupe.  

Engines will include the new 2.0 JTS, offering 165bhp. Meanwhile, the engineers are also developing a 3.5 V6 GTAm version with 350bhp and possible all-wheel-drive. This potent model will be offered alongside the already impressive 3.2 V6 GTA, and will be the most powerful production hatchback offered on the European market.  

Three diesel options are also on the cards, each using the race-proven 16-valve 1.9 MJet unit. The diesel engine will be available with 120, 150 and 180bhp, respectively.  

A four-wheel-drive version, along the theme of the recent 156 Crosswagon, will also make its debut. This will have higher ground clearance and more rugged styling.  

The Nuova 147 will be unveiled this year at the Paris Motor Show, with sales starting in January 2005.