By Jon Quirk
18 April 2008
Honda Accord – The Rivals
With so many compact executive saloons on offer, perhaps it’s time we questioned our blind reverence to cars like the Audi A4, Mercedes C-class and even the holy BMW 3-series. Maybe so, but if you still feel like you’re an aneurysm and two hip replacements short of owning an Accord, here are five other semi-premium saloons worth considering.
1. Alfa Romeo 159
Pick of the range: 1.9 JTDm Lusso £22,150
Tech highlights: 148bhp, 0-60mph in 9.5secs, 47.1mpg (combined), 159g/km
With its sporty elegance and strong performance, the Alfa Romeo 159 embodies Alfas of old. It’s a beautiful looking thing. The wide track up front helps increase front cornering grip as well as complement the car’s muscular stance. The favoured 1.9-litre diesel can be revved like a petrol and climate control, leather upholstery and rear parking sensors all come as standard in Lusso trim. You’ll be amazed that despite all this Italian spirit, the Alfa’s cabin is arranged with German sensibility. All the controls are exactly where you’d expect them, which is unusual for an Alfa.
Alfa Romeo 159 – 60 second video review
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