2002 Alfa Romeo 147 Turismo review from UK and Ireland

Gearbox failed at 30,000 miles, replaced under warranty.

Front alloy wheels started to buckle causing steering judder - both replaced under warranty.

Cylinder head gasket blew at 32,000 miles - repaired under warranty.

Funny smell from air conditioning unit sometimes - smells like urine!! Usually clears up after a period of operation though.

The odd false alarm warning light - esp rear fog light.

ABS sensor packed in - replaced under warranty.

Looks like drivers seat is starting to show signs of wear.

Overall I have had a fair few problems with this car even though it was purchased from a main dealer. These were all repaired / fixed under warranty and without quibble and I was always offered a hire car.

That said, I am impressed with the general build quality of the car. It is so far rattle and squeak free and feels really taut on the road. Handling is good, though performance from 1.6 is just about adequate. Compared to a Jaguar X type that I test drove recently (from a main dealer) I would rate the build quality of the Alfa way in excess of the Jag - the Jag had too many rattles and squeaks from the dashboard, excessive use of hard and shiny plastics that just looked cheap, nasty and tacky, plus in handling terms the Alfa would outrun it on a twisty road.