Alfa Romeo GT Coupe

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The GT handles fast bends and main roads with composure, but needs electronic traction aids to put power down in tighter corners, and the fast-acting steering could do with more feel.

Ride & handling
The GT shares the 156 saloon’s chassis but has its own settings. It handles fast bends and main roads with composure, but needs its electronic traction aids to put its power down in tighter corners, and the fast-acting steering could do with more feel. The ride also gets choppy when the roads deteriorate. The optional Q2 limited slip differential improves handling, providing more front-end grip.

Refinement
A bit of engine noise is welcome in an Alfa and the V6 and 2.0 don’t disappoint, although they are quiet when touring and even the diesel is largely mute. Suspension noise on pockmarked roads is more of an issue, however. Cars with the Selespeed paddle-shift gearbox are tricky to drive smoothly in slow traffic and to park

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
Although the GT undercuts most versions of the BMW 3 Series Coupé on price, it’s not the bargain that some Alfa models are and V6 versions are pricey. Residual values aren’t great either. The turbodiesel is the cheapest model, and has superior fuel economy and company car tax costs, making it the one to choose if it’s a company car.

Quality & reliability
Alfa still has its problems with reliability, according to our latest surveys, but things are improving. Plusher trim materials and greater attention to their fit are becoming the norm at Alfa. The GT’s cabin is broadly the same as the 147’s, and it offers a full range of cloth, leather and Alcantara-like materials.

Safety & security
All GTs have a good standard of safety kit, with anti-lock brakes, a stability control system, and front, side and window airbags if the worst should happen. A central rear three-point belt is an option and there are ISOFIX child seat mountings. An alarm is standard.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
Most people should be able to adjust the seat and steering wheel sufficiently to get comfortable, although space is not generous for really tall drivers. The dash is so neat and orderly it could be German, but the car’s deep sides and slim windows severely hamper visibility and make manoeuvring awkward.

Space & practicality
All coupés involve compromises with space, but for anyone under 5ft 9in there’s just about enough head- and legroom to get comfortable in the rear, though access can be tricky. There’s proper grand-touring luggage space, though, and the rear seats fold separately to give the option of more.

Equipment
Each engine comes in just one trim level and all versions feature plenty of kit. Climate control, electric windows, electric mirrors, alloy wheels and a CD player are standard on all models, while 2.0 Selespeed and 3.2 V6 versions also have leather upholstery. Option packs are available, along with xenon headlamps and satellite-navigation.

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