Visitors to the Paris show can admire two versions of the Alfa Spider (185 bhp 2.2 JTS and 260 bhp 3.2 V6 Q4), both in top of the range versions and equipped with 7 airbags, VDC, ASR, automatic bi-zone climate control, wind-stop, natural leather interiors and 18" alloys.

Next to these two cars visitors can admire an Alfa Brera, a black Q4 version equipped with a 24 valve 3.2 V6 JTS power unit, a jewel of automotive engineering that delivers a power output of 191 kW (260 bhp) at 6300 rpm with a maximum torque of 322 Nm (32.8 kgm) at 4500 rpm. Both vehicles are extremely well endowed with equipment, including a host of features specifically devoted to safety: 7 airbags (including driver side knee bag), VDC, ABS with EBD, ventilated front and rear brake discs, MSR, Hill Holder, ASR and foglight. The long list of devices used to ensure maximum on-board comfort includes: automatic bi-zone climate control system, radio with CD player and CD changer, parking sensor, Bose Hi-Fi, a Visibility Pack (rain sensor, dusk sensor and anti-mist sensor) and a map navigation system with telephone and voice commands. This version is complemented by natural leather interiors and 18" alloy wheels.


Alfa 147 in Q2, Black Line II and Collezione II versions

Another example of the Alfa Romeo world of style and technology is the 147 model exhibited in three versions at the Paris show. The first car, enjoying its world premiere, is distinguished by a front self-locking differential (known as the Q2) that confirms all the strengths of a front wheel drive configuration, i.e. increased driving satisfaction and control while guaranteeing some of the typical benefits of a four wheel drive. The system is available solely with the 150 bhp JTDm engine. This choice takes into consideration the current technological turbodiesel scenario. Since 1997, the debut year of the Alfa 156 JTD (the first vehicle in the world with Common Rail technology), the amount of torque to be transmitted to the wheels has increased greatly, even on compacts. Alfa Romeo has therefore developed the sophisticated Q2 system to guarantee maximum control and traction in all driving conditions. The Alfa 147 Q2 therefore offers satinised 'whiskers', grille and mirror farings, rear spoiler chrome exhaust tailpipe, low ride and a special Q2 logo.


Inside, this version offers a sporty look including: gauges with red scale and white lighting, leather upholstery with red top-stitching on the steering wheel and gearlever gaiter and parking brake, dark grey steering wheel panels and central console, special Q2 door sill and aluminium pedal unit. The Alfa 147 Q2 equipment list is complemented by radio controls on the steering wheel, cruise control, a VDC system and 6 airbags. The car on show also adds leather seats in a sports configuration with red top-stitching, Bose sound system, satellite navigation and xenon headlights.


The second Alfa 147 is available in the Black Line specification. This three door car equipped with a 120 bhp Twin Spark 1.6 engine marries sportiness and style, as is evident from its special 'b-colore' livery: this takes the form of an Alfa Red body with some details painted in a sophisticated glossy Black (roof, central panel and rear spoiler) with satinised grille, 'whiskers' and door mirror fairings. The interior is enhanced by a new two-tone sporty cloth (black and grey) with black steering wheel panels and central console. In a quest for further sportiness, the new Alfa 147 Black Line Special Series also offers low ride, chrome exhaust tailpipe and 17" perforated chrome shadow alloys with 215/45 tyres. The standard equipment list also includes ABS with EBD, 6 airbags, radio with CD player, leather steering wheel and gear knob and manual climate control system. The vehicle on the stand complements these items with some options such as VDC with ASR, Cruise Control and wiring for an iPod.


Lastly, the third car is a 5-door version in the 'Collezione II' specification with a metallic black body and elegant two-tone 'b-colore' leather interior (black/cream) and black 'b-colore' facia. The compact Alfa, equipped with the 150 bhp 1.9 JTDm, offers the most sophisticated safety devices available: including VDC, ASR, ABS with EBD and six airbags. The equipment array is complemented by a bi-zone automatic climate control system, 17" spoked alloys, radio with CD, Cruise Control and rear electric windows. The car on show is also equipped with a map navigation system with built-in handsfree phone and radio and telephone controls on the steering wheel, rear parking sensors, CD changer, Bose Hi-Fi system, low suspension and particulate filter.

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