The United States can finally taste what the rest of the world has been enjoying for the past decade. Alfa Romeo has been improving their cars to a degree where they’re now a worthy alternative to some of the German brands. After their dismal performance in the U.S. back in 1995 (they only managed to move a paltry 500 cars), they’re returning with the sexy new 159 sedan.

The move makes obvious sense for the Italian marque; they simply cannot afford to ignore a market this large. The brand, most likely, won’t be seen in the U.S. until 2010, to mark Alfa’s 100th anniversary.

The 159 is a svelte looking sedan, sporting a 260 hp V6, displacing 3.2-litres. Alfa’s are well known for their glorious engine note, and the 159 is no exception. Mated to a 6-speed manual or Selespeed sequential gearbox, the 159 is good for a 0-60 sprint in 6.8 seconds with a top speed of 150 mph. All-wheel drive is standard.

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