New 'CAR' magazine test the new Alfa 156 GTA (3.2 V6, 250 bhp). Rate it exceptionally highly, and call an impreza, but with style.

Having owned a 156 V6, the basis for the car is stunning, and at £26-28k (for the GTA) with every conceivable option standard(Leather/climate control/sat nav/xenons/etc/etc) and an exhaust note straight from heaven, this could be quite a car

 

I considered one, but decided that reliability and depreciation were too bigger question marks for me to get one.

 

isn't it a fwd?

whats the handling like?

 

By all accounts it's excellent(for a FWD). Not sure how long my front tyres would last though

 

Bearing in mind import prices on Alfa's, the GTA could be a bargain if it follows this trend.

Very nice looking car, would definitely consider it if the price is right on imports.

Apparently Alfa are planning a 4wd version as well.

Cheers
Tim

 

Hmmm...the 4wd would be interesting...I do like the designs...maybe my next car (if I can't afford the R34!)

 

GTA - Impreza with style maybe, attitude well ........

 

The handling (on the normal V6 version) is stunning, and not just 'for a FWD'. Willie Green had a drive of mine when I had it, and genuinely said you couldn't tell which wheels were driving - except when you induced wheelspin when setting off. The GTA is reckoned to be better still add-in that FWD has a fraction of the transmission losses, so when it is that good - why go for AWD??

Tyres are a problem though! All Alfas are toe-ed in AND have -ve camber on front wheels (Its what makes the handling and turn so good) so I used to get through SO2s in 12k. But on a plus side, the rears lasted 30k+. On my Impreza all four SO2s needed replacing every 12-14k

As for attitude, have you seen pics of the GTA?? makes the WRX look like a candy van....a very ugly candy van of course


Sorely tempted....Having had two Alfas, nothing stirs the sole quite like them


Also...why was this post moved? As far as I know the Impreza (see title) is still a Subaru??? Mouse finger trigger happy??

 

..oh and reliability.. My 156 was second only to the 330d in reliability, and far better than the scoob Only problem I ever had was the cover of the towing eye socket came loose.

Don't believe the hype