Alfa's flagship is dedicated to discerning motorists who appreciate sophisticated engineering and demand high quality of on-board life, safety and - naturally - driving satisfaction. The car also offers an interior environment with fine materials and detailing. 

It is comfortable due to its user-friendliness. It is pleasing due to the gratifying sensations aroused by an advanced climate control system, outstanding sound-proofing and a very comfortable suspension. It is sophisticated because the in-car technology has been designed to make life easier: with an efficient electronic interface, cruise control so useful on motorway routes, a smart radio that dynamically adjusts volume to the surrounding noise and a satellite navigation system to suggest the best way to a chosen destination. 

A wide variety of electronic devices ensure that the great performance levels of which all Alfa 166 versions are capable can be enjoyed in absolute safety: ABS with electronic brakeforce distributor, antislip systems for automatic traction control - and VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) that cuts in under near-limit conditions to help the driver control the car on bends. 

All the customer has to do is choose one of the several engine - gearbox combinations on offer, the sixth gear is non-overdrive throughout the range. The power units are all spirited, reliable and respectful of the environment. The range includes petrol-driven 110 kW (150 bhp) 2.0 T. Spark 16V, 138 kW (188 bhp) 2.5 V6 24V and 162 kW (220 bhp) 3.0 V6 24V units and the 2.4 JTD that has now increased from 140 to 150 bhp. The ten extra horse power propel the Alfa 166 along at a top speed of 210 km/h with the following fuel consumption figures: 7.5 over a combined cycle, 10.4 over an urban cycle and 5.8 out-of-town. 

The Alfa 166 2.4 JTD is on show in Paris. 

08.05.2002  IMAGES STUDY ALFA 166 FACELIFT DUE IN 2003