In 2005 Alfa Romeo began production for a new compact executive car called the Alfa Romeo 159 that will replace the classic 156 model. This new model offers the same GM/Fiat platform as the Spider and Brera.

Alfa Romeo 159 is available in two versions: four and front-wheel drive. First in line comes the Q4 four-wheel drive system sporting a front and center differential also known as the Torsen type C twin differential and running on the 2.4 liter diesel and 3.2 liter petrol engines. Most models use a six-speed manual gearbox while the 3.2 petrol, 2.4 diesel and 1.9 diesel configurations mate with a six-speed automatic Q-Tronic gearbox. In some countries the Salespeed gearbox is being sold with a 2.2 petrol engine.

Back in 2006 at the Geneva Motor Show Alfa Romeo presented the Sportwagon model next to an automatic gearbox variant for the 2.4 JTDM diesel model. After only one year the manufacturer unveiled the four wheel drive diesel model and increased the power output for the 2.4-liter diesel engines to 210 PS (207 hp/154 kW).

In 2008 the 3.2 liter V6 configuration became available delivered 250 kilometers per hour (160 mph) top speed with a front wheel drive configuration.

 

Now, all Alfa Romeo models come equipped with an electronic Q2 limited slip differential and thanks to a newly introduced aluminum components are 45 kilograms (99 lb) lighter than before.

Last but not least, when it comes to the awards received by this vehicle, in 2006 the 159 received the Auto Build Design Award, at the 2006 Fleet World Honours received the Design Award and one year later it won the award for Die Besten Autos 2007 Import category.