Alfa Romeo Spider (07-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 16 January 2009
What's most notable about the Spider aren’t its sharp lines or charismatic engines. Or even the attention to detail in the interior. After all these are bread-and-butter to Alfa Romeo. The biggest surprise is what you can expect after you’ve bought the car - and for a change it's good news. For once passion is starting to translate into decent service from dealers - many new, upmarket, sites have been appointed while those with bad records have gone. There's now better performance when it comes to reliability and customer service that’s more fitting for buyers spending BMW and Audi money on a car. It means for the first time, it’s possible to recommend an Alfa on all its merits – not just those that are skin deep.
4 out of 5

Safety

It's yet to be tested by Euro NCAP, but every Spider has five airbags including a driver's kneebag (up to six airbags can be specified), seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, an electronic vehicle stability programme and traction control. The twin rollover hoops aren’t just for show. In the event of an accident, they prevent occupants from being crushed.

NCAP Test

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3 out of 5

Reliability

Owners of the previous generation Spider are surprisingly complimentary about the car's reliability, which goes against Alfa Romeo's reputation for poor build quality - see our owners' review section for details. However, dealers aren't held in such high regard, so it may be worth searching for a decent independent for servicing. The latest car is all-new, plus Alfa Romeo's build standards have improved considerably in recent years, which bodes well for the future.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.