Alfa Romeo 166 (99-05) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 06 May 2009
Alfa's attempt at an executive saloon, the 166 may not be a very common site on UK roads but it makes an alternative choice to the likes of the Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5-Series. Strong performance and confident handling make it enjoyable from behind the wheel plus all models come well equipped. However the interior lacks space and build quality isn't up to premium standards - the lack of any diesel engines do it few favours either. The model received a much welcome facelift in 2003 which not only improved the looks but also brought revised suspension and the introduction of a 3.2-litre V6 engine.
3 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£19,921 - £31,905

Used price range:

£286 - £2,616

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Alfa style, driving pleasure, characteristic V6 engines

Cramped in the back, no diesel option, firm ride

Alfa's attempt at an executive saloon, the 166 may not be a very common site on UK roads but it makes an alternative choice to the likes of the Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5-Series. Strong performance and confident handling make it enjoyable from behind the wheel plus all models come well equipped. However the interior lacks space and build quality isn't up to premium standards - the lack of any diesel engines do it few favours either. The model received a much welcome facelift in 2003 which not only improved the looks but also brought revised suspension and the introduction of a 3.2-litre V6 engine.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3.5 out of 5

    "The 166 is one of the older Alfa models so it's no surprise to find there are no diesel engines in..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "As you'd expect from an Alfa Romeo the handling is agile and the 166 doesn't feel like a big car."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    1.5 out of 5

    "It's not as big or as spacious as most executive rivals and space is tight for rear passengers. It's..."

  • Practicality

    2.5 out of 5

    "There's no estate version but the fat tail provides a deep, generously proportioned boot which will..."

  • Equipment

    3.5 out of 5

    "The 166 is lavishly equipped, especially the Super Lusso, but all feel very well appointed and the..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3 out of 5

    "You'll certainly never forget you're in an Italian car from the drivers seat. The dash wraps around..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    1.5 out of 5

    "Depreciation will be painful and all the engines are thirsty - especially the V6 units. Pick one of..."

  • Green credentials

    1.5 out of 5

    "The 166 performs badly on the eco front and with an average of 276g/km CO2 across the model line-up,..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3 out of 5

    "All models get four airbags and an alarm and immobiliser as standard but deadlocks aren't fitted so..."

  • Reliability

    2.5 out of 5

    "The bad reputation for reliability is largely down to Alfas of old and most owners have nothing but..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    1.5 out of 5

    "Getting on a bit now despite recent facelift and you'll lose a fair bit by way of depreciation. But..."

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "Thanks to the wonder of depreciation this delicious car can be picked up for a very appealing sum."

  • Selling

    2 out of 5

    "Not an obvious choice and you'll struggle to get good money for it but there's a solid fanbase so it..."

Gallery

  • Interior Alfa Romeo 166 (99-05)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo 166 (99-05)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo 166 (99-05)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo 166 (99-05)

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Owners' reviews