Alfa Romeo 147 (01-09) - Review Review by Ben Wall on 25 September 2007 Last Updated: 06 May 2009 Voted Car of the Year in 2001 before it even went on sale here, Alfa's sleek, sporting 147 hatchback has appealing Italian styling, advanced engines, fine handling and competitive pricing against premium offerings from Audi and BMW. What Alfa has lacked is a reputation for longevity, although the 147 has proven to be one of the firms more reliable models. Facelifted in 2005 with the new-look Alfa face and a light interior makeover, even in its later years there remains much to like about this stylish hatchback. 3 out of 5 Other Alfa Romeo reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Owners' Reviews Gallery 2.5 out of 5 Comfort The 147 is not great compared to rivals. There shouldn't be too many complaints from those in the front, with adequate head and legroom, but passengers in the back aren't so well catered for. There's enough room for two, with limited head and legroom, but it's a struggle for three in both the three and five-door models. View full gallery 2.5 out of 5 Practicality Despite being attractive, the interior feels a little claustrophobic in the rear of the three-door model, especially when fully loaded. The seats split and fold, but luggage space lags behind rivals such as Ford Focus and a narrow tailgate and high sill make it tricky to access. The boot only opens via a button on the key or on the dash which can be awkward. Get a Alfa Romeo 147 valuation View full gallery How does the boot space compare? Ford Focus Hatchback (05-11) 385 litres SEAT Leon Hatchback (05 on) 341 litres Alfa Romeo 147 (01-09) 280 litres Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (04-08) 275 litres 3 out of 5 Behind the wheel The steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake, and the seat's range of movement includes height adjustment, so it's easy to find a comfortable driving position. The seat could be more supportive and this shows up on longer journeys but the interior is one of the prettiest in the class with typical Italian style, even if some of the controls are in odd places. View full gallery Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Alfa Romeo 147 cars for sale We have 48 models like this for sale. Find Alfa Romeo 147 cars for sale Previous: Driving & Performance Next: Costs