Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon (2006-2011) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 23 - 54 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon running costs aren’t too bad. Lower volumes than the 156 should mean better resale values for the 159 while good equipment levels also mean a used model could be quite desirable. The diesels are quite frugal, although petrol models are relatively thirsty. Insurance groups for mainstream models range from 11 to 14, while the faster 2.4 JTDM is in group 14 and the range-topping V6 is in group 16.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon emissions are fairly competitive – especially in terms of CO2. The 159 performs adequately in terms of CO2 outputs and despite being a sporty brand, there are even ECO models available. Powered by the 1.9 JTDM engine with power lowered to 120bhp (from 150bhp), they emit 140g/km of CO2 while returning 53mpg. This isn’t bad, but it lags behind alternatives from BMW and Audi.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon reliability may concern you, but it shouldn’t put you off. The company claims to have improved build quality and cars we’ve driven so far were certainly free of any squeaks or rattles. Time will tell however as historically, reliability was not an Alfa Romeo strength.