Alfa Romeo GTV (96-04) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 06 May 2009
Coupés are all about style - something the GTV has in abundance. Despite being around since 1996 it still looks fantastic inside and out, helped by a mid-life facelift. You'll have to make sacrifices in the practicality department since the rear seats are only fit for luggage, and it's not cheap to run either with thirsty petrol engines. However it's enjoyable to drive and quick too - if you want a bit of Italian soul then the GTV could be the answer.
3.5 out of 5

Other Alfa Romeo reviews

3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£20,170 - £28,043

Used price range:

£352 - £2,043

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Italian panache, great performance, wonderful V6 engine

There are cheaper and more reliable choices, no diesel option, cramped rear seats

Coupés are all about style - something the GTV has in abundance. Despite being around since 1996 it still looks fantastic inside and out, helped by a mid-life facelift. You'll have to make sacrifices in the practicality department since the rear seats are only fit for luggage, and it's not cheap to run either with thirsty petrol engines. However it's enjoyable to drive and quick too - if you want a bit of Italian soul then the GTV could be the answer.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    4 out of 5

    "There are just two petrol engines available - the entry-level unit was initially a 2.0-litre twin..."

  • Handling

    4 out of 5

    "The GTV corners sharply with precise and well-weighted steering but as it's front wheel drive the..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    2.5 out of 5

    "Despite its small dimensions the GTV is a surprisingly comfortable car for long journeys thanks to..."

  • Practicality

    2 out of 5

    "It may be a four-seater, but in reality the rear seats are so small that you would only stick young..."

  • Equipment

    3 out of 5

    "Equipment is reasonably generous, and you'll get most of the equipment you want. Lusso is the fully..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3.5 out of 5

    "Alfa has always had a flair for producing beautiful interiors and the GTV is no exception. It feels..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    2 out of 5

    "Depreciation is pretty horrendous, and the V6 in particular is thirsty and not cheap to insure. It's..."

  • Green credentials

    1.5 out of 5

    "The GTV is a polluting model and with an average of 245g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    2.5 out of 5

    "The driver and front passenger get airbags, but there are no side airbags, however traction control..."

  • Reliability

    2.5 out of 5

    "Alfa's have a reputation in this department and it's not a good one, however plenty of people enjoy..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    2.5 out of 5

    "Recent models have had a facelift and look more up-to-date but you'll suffer a fair bit in..."

  • Buying used

    4 out of 5

    "The wonders of depreciation reward you with a substantial discount if you go down the used route - a..."

  • Selling

    2.5 out of 5

    "You'll probably feel rather hard done if you bought it new because despite all those admiring..."

Gallery

  • Interior Alfa Romeo GTV (96-04)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo GTV (96-04)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo GTV (96-04)
  • Exterior Alfa Romeo GTV (96-04)

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Owners' reviews