For: Handling, looks, driver involvement, servicing costs, tactile interior, standard kit, smooth V6
Against: High boot lip makes access tricky, thirsty, cramped rear, high running costs

Driving:
As soon as you press the start button, it’s clear this Alfa is something special. The 3.2-litre V6 has a satisfyingly deep rumble and is accompanied by a fantastic engine note. It develops 256bhp and 322Nm, but the dash to 60mph, while benefiting from superior traction, is hampered by the car’s weight. However, the engine is lovely to use. It’s never harsh, is rewarding to use and the slick six-speed gearbox adds to the satisfaction. Alfa has managed to get the ride quality just right too, as it’s firm without being too harsh over uneven surfaces. But where the 159 really excels is in the handling stakes. The Q4 has a mechanical torque split with a bias to the rear wheels. This varies, depending on road conditions, and up to 78 per cent of power can be sent to either axle. The Alfa corners with minimal roll, grip is superb and the chassis is very well balanced. Even when you throw it into corners, the car keeps its composure with plenty of feedback through the steering.

Marketplace:
Alfa is hoping this estate version of the 159 will establish it as a serious player in the lifestyle estate sector. Competitive pricing should help, along with a wide model range that closely mirrors the saloon. It’s the styling that will have tantalised first though. From the outside, the Alfa looks compact and purposeful, and features the same fine detailing as the saloon – including the wonderfully crafted doorhandles and three ringed headlamps. Tested here is the Q4 four-wheel-drive version, developed after customers asked Alfa to return to producing cars which are more entertaining to drive. The system will only be fitted to models with more than 200bhp – such as this 3.2-litre V6 petrol version, a flagship model featuring the company’s latest direct-injection powerplant. Key rivals include the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3-Series Touring and Mercedes C-Class estate, but only the Audi offers four-wheel-drive.

Owning:
The sleek profile disguises that this is an estate. The 1,235-litre maximum load volume is a 10 per cent increase over the saloon, but space alone isn’t enough, as the cargo area has to be easy to load. And this is where we level our biggest criticism at the Alfa. The high lip and narrow opening are awkward, and trying to remove heavy objects can be back-breaking. And even though the long wheelbase gives relatively generous rear legroom, the seats can feel cramped due to the low roof. But the leather chairs up front are very comfortable, the driving position is excellent and the dashboard and centre console have been designed to wrap around the driver, making it feel like a sports car. Fit and finish are excellent and there are no squeaks and rattles. It does not feel as robust as some German rivals, but the Alfa is not far behind. It’s not that economical, but servicing is inexpensive and intervals are a broad 18,000 miles. Alfa promises it’s brining the dealer network up to scratch, too. This should help residuals but the V6 Q4 is still not likely to prove cheap to run, even though list prices are competitive and equipment levels very generous.