Used Alfa Romeo GT 2004 - 2011 review

Based on the same platform as the 156 saloon, the Alfa Romeo GT is a car that keen drivers will love driving hard – but only if the road is super smooth. If you encounter bumps or lumps, the front wheels begin to scrabble for grip.

The 1.9 JTD diesel engine suits the GT very well, as does the 2.0 JTS petrol. The great-sounding 3.2 V6 is quick, but has too much power for the GT's chassis.

The good feeling through the steering is one of the GT's finest assets, but in tight corners, it's all too easy for the strong engines to spin a front wheel, bringing the traction control into play.

There's only one trim level on the GT and it includes plenty of equipment. The driving position is suitable for most, although taller drivers may struggle to make themselves comfortable. Space in the rear is too cramped for adults on longer trips.

Alfa Romeo dealers are not as expensive for servicing as many of their rivals, but the service can be patchy. The best bet is to find a friendly dealer and stick with them, or seek out one of the many independent Alfa specialists who are fanatical about the company and its cars.

The JTD diesel engine easily returns more than 40mpg in normal driving, so is easiest on the wallet. The 2.0 JTS is also decently frugal, but the 3.2 V6 pays for its performance at the fuel pumps, as well as having markedly more expensive routine maintenance costs.

Another plus point for the diesel model is its lower insurance cost compared to the petrol models.

All GTs wear their front tyres quite quickly, so you can expect to have buy a new pair once a year or around every 10,000 miles.

A diesel engine may sound at odds with the image of a svelte coupe like the Alfa Romeo GT, but the 1.9 JTD is the pick of the engines available in this handsome car. With 150bhp and 225lb ft of pull, the JTD model gives little away in performance to the petrol-powered 2.0 JTS version.

As all GTs share the same trim level and equipment, just about the only decision you have to make is what engine to have. If you don't fancy the diesel, the 2.0 JTS is a good bet, as it happily zings away when asked to perform, yet won't break the bank on economy.

While you'll soon see hefty fuel bills if you use the full potential of the 3.2 V6, some may think that's a small price to pay for the splendid noise it makes.

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