2000 Alfa Romeo 156 Selespeed Veloce review from UK and Ireland

Selespeed, button was sticking.

2 weeks after having the car, it didn't recognize the "Key-code" on my key, and had to have a new ECU. I didn't have the car for a week, as it had to come from Italy.

Selespeed ECU needed to be replaced after two months. This took two weeks to come from Italy.

Selespeed actuator needed to be replaced.

Boot was out of alignment. The rear screen was fitted incorrectly at the factory. This had to be put right so that the boot could be realigned.

Most recently (Feb 2002), the Selespeed gearbox kept going into Nuetral. You couldn't do anything about it, and the first two times it cleared itself within an hour. This happened three times in two days. The last time it happened, I made the travel report because of the long tail backs I'd caused on the A12.

I'm currently trying to return the car for a standard gearbox version. If you can get a trouble-free Selespeed, you'll really enjoy it. Personally I don't think such a thing exists.

Superb handling, I recently had Michelin Pilot Sport tyres fitted, and I get out of the car grinning each time I make a journey.

Looks great, by far one of the most distinctive cars on the road. I can't help, but to look back at it, each time I walk away from it.

Steering lock is really poor. I can't remember having to do so many three and five point turns in a car before.

Recaro seats are great.

Clarion CD player lacks Depth of sound.

Sports suspension is a must, gives the car a more purposeful stance.