Alfa Romeo Sportwagon 1.6

Advantages: Very stylish appearance. Probably the most attractive estate car available on the British market
Disadvantages: 1.6 engine a little under-powered.

I've owned an Alfa Romeo 156 1.6 Sportwagon for three years and covered almost 100,000 miles during that time. I certainly do not regret my choice of car and would be very happy to repeat my decision when replacing my current car. As with all Alfas, the 156 has a sporty feel, although the 1.6 engine lacks the torque of bigger bore versions. Unfortunately, the 1.6 has been dropped from the Sportwagon range and is therefore only available now on the ...
...a car manufacurer whose emphasis has always been more about style and performance than practicality. Indeed, practicality has been overlooked even in an estate. The carrying capacity is rather limited but is probably quite sufficient for most people's requirements. The cabin looks modern and uncluttered with a good quality stereo and very powerful air conditioning system. Seats are firm and comfortable with decent rear head and leg room. Apart ... Read review

Advantages: looks great, brilliant engine - surprisingly powerful
Disadvantages: italian idiosyncrasies

It's true what they say your head says you shouldn’t buy one, but your heart… After the test drive, I was smitten. 156 Sportwagon 1.6 veloce, black with red leather upholstery. It has lots of lovely features, great dash, brilliant looks - mine even came with a Bose sub-woofer, and while I thought I didn’t really want one, I don’t think I’d be without now – the music is fantastic. There have been a few teething ...
...in occasionally if it’s been raining (?!). One concerning fault – a suspension part had to be replaced, and the suspension remains noisy. Mine’s 18 months old now, and would I buy another? Remains to be seen, really. The thing is – what else could I buy that would match up, character-wise? ... Read review