ALFA Romeo launches its new 166 flagship at the end of the month, completing the company's shake-up of its entire range which started five years ago.

The sports saloon, which will be priced from £22,701 to £29,800, will compete in the so-called E segment of the car market, which boasts some of the toughest opposition in the world.

Newcomers in the sector include the likes of the Cowley-built Rover 75, Jaguar S-type and Volvo S80.

Existing heavyweight contenders in the sector include the BMW 5 series, Mercedes E-class and Audi A6, all of which characterise an essential ingredient for success - strong brand image.

The 166's family resemblance to other models in the Alfa Romeo range is obvious, as is its link to Alfa's glorious past.

In the UK, three petrol power units will be available: the four-cylinder 2.0 Twin Spark 16v with 155 horsepower, or a choice of 2.5 and 3.0 V6 24-valve engines developing 190 horsepower and 226 horsepower respectively. Designed and styled in-house, the high-performance 166 offers a range of technology including:

A 'smart' radio, able to adjust its volume level to the surroundings

A satellite navigation system that suggests the best route to required destinations and avanced climate control and cruise control.

To offer the driver maximum control under all conditions, Alfa Romeo's new flagship also benefits from other state-of-the-art engineering solutions: active sensor anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution; Anti Slip Regulation or a Traction Control System; and also Sport Throttle Response, which allows drivers to choose their favourite driving style.

A six-speed gearbox is fitted to the top of the range 3.0-litre V6 to enhance the 150mph car's strong sporting characteristics.

A safety package - including two airbags (one with a passenger presence sensor), front pretensioners and a fire prevention system - has been extended on the Alfa 166 to include xenon headlights and side airbags.

Story date: Tuesday 26 January

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