The 159 will to hold its value better than the 156 and about as well as a Volkswagen Passat or Honda Accord, although not as well as an Audi A4. Alfa 159 running costs make reasonable reading, with the exception of the 3.2-litre, which is thirsty. All other models can do more than 30mpg and the diesels are especially frugal. Alfa servicing is reasonably priced, especially compared with the likes of BMW or Mercedes-Benz, but the dealers don’t have a great reputation.

The 159 performs adequately in terms of CO2 outputs and despite being a sporty brand, there are even ECO models available. Powered by the 1.9 JTDM engine with power lowered to 120bhp (from 150bhp), they emit 138g/km of CO2 while returning 54mpg. So Alfa 159 emissions aren’t bad, but they lag behind alternatives from BMW and Audi.

Don’t expect bulletproof Alfa 159 reliability. The company claims to have improved build quality and cars we’ve driven so far were certainly free of any squeaks, rattles or problems. Time will tell, however, as historically, reliability was not an Alfa Romeo strength.