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Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTD 16v

When Alfa Romeo's 147 was launched in January 2001, the company's UK importer insisted that the diesel version would never be exported to these shores.

By Richard Williamson

October 2002

When Alfa Romeo's 147 was launched in January 2001, the company's UK importer insisted that the diesel version would never be exported to these shores. Didn't suit the image, claimed a spokeswoman. Since then, sales of oil-burners have boomed and rivals are cashing in. Alfa has been forced to swallow its pride and do a U-turn.

So UK buyers will get an eight-valve 1.9-litre JTD diesel engine in the 147 from next March. But it's the all-new 16-valve version of the same powerplant, which is due in summer 2003, that the Italian marque is hoping will really worry the likes of VW and Audi.

The groundbreaking Multijet 16v JTD uses technology designed to cut noise levels by up to six decibels, further reduce exhaust emissions and lower fuel consumption. It will also increase power and torque to give GTi-style performance. Without getting too technical, there are four injection stages in each combustion cycle compared to two in the older Unijet set-up; the same amount of fuel is burned, but in shorter, smoother bursts, and, of course, via four valves per cylinder.

The effect of all this is obvious. With 140bhp peaking at 4,000rpm, only the 150bhp VW Golf GT TDI PD 150 beats the Alfa for power among sporting diesel hatchbacks. Better still is a hike in torque to 305Nm which offers its best from 2,000rpm. In-gear performance is stunning, with short, sharp shifts of the six-speed manual transmission extracting the best of the torque. Alfa Romeo claims a top speed of 128mph and estimates a sub-nine seconds time for the 0-60mph dash.

A mass of soundproofing material in the engine bay hasn't eliminated the traditional start-up clatter, and at higher revs the 16-valver is slightly boomy. But the JTD's sweet spot introduces a characteristically sporty Alfa growl to complement the 147's confident handling and pleasing driving position.

Some quality doubts remain, such as cheap plastics and the occasional squeak, but overall the stylish cabin and funky exterior lines make the 147 JTD 16v an enticing prospect for the future of economy-led hot hatches.

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FIRST OPINION

    By introducing the common-rail Multijet 16v JTD engine into the 147, Alfa Romeo is aiming for buyers wanting economy and performance. With 140bhp, a six-speed 'box and warm hatch acceleration, the car will not harm Alfa's sporting image, either.
 

AT A GLANCE

    New Alfa 147 16v JTD Multijet on sale in UK next summer
    Estimated prices between £14,000 and £16,000
    0-60mph: Sub-nine secs (est)
     
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