Year By Year Changes
Several levels of trim are available, depending on market. Four trim levels: Progression, Distinctive, Exclusive and Turismo Internazionale (TI). In the UK there are three levels of trim: Turismo, Lusso and Turismo Internazionale (TI). Among other options, the 159 is also available with the Blue&Me infotainment system.
A Sportwagon variant was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006. An automatic gearbox option for the 2.4 JTDM diesel model was also launched that year, and later extended to other versions. In 2007 a four wheel drive diesel model was released and the 2.4-litre diesel engines' power output increased to 210 PS (150 kW; 210 hp), with a newly reintroduced TI trim level also available as an option.
For model year 2008 the mechanics and interiors of the 159 were further developed. The 3.2 litre V6 model is offered in front wheel drive configuration, achieving a top speed of 250 kilometres per hour (160 mph). All model variants are equipped with Alfa's electronic "Q2" limited slip differential. As a result of newly introduced aluminium components, a 45 kilograms (99 lb) weight reduction has been achieved. Recent model versions were introduced in Geneva Motor Show in 2008.
For model year 2009 Alfa Romeo introduced a new turbocharged Gasoline (Petrol) engine badged as "TBi", this 1742 cc unit has direct injection and variable valve timing in both inlet and exhaust cams. This new engine has 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) and 320 N·m (240 lb·ft) of torque. Eventually this unit will replace GM derived 2.2 and 1.9 JTS units. Also a new 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) JTDm diesel became available.
In 2010, all Gasoline (Petrol) engines except for the 1750 TBi were retired, ending the use of General Motors based engines in the 159. The only remaining diesel engines are now the 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) and 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) 2.0 JTDm engines.
In 2011, the 159 was powered only by diesel engines, with both the 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) and 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) 2.0 JTDm available on the 159 Sportwagon, and only the 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) variant available on the 159 sedan.
Alfa Romeo stopped taking orders in the UK for the 159 on 8 July 2011. Other European countries followed shortly afterwards.
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“We are often made to feel that there is another youth and age than that which is measured from the year of our natural birth. Some thoughts always find us young, and keep us so. Such a thought is the love of the universal and eternal beauty.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)