Alfa Romeo's 147, a past Car of the Year (it won by just one point from the Mondeo), is one of the most attractive small family hatchbacks on the market. The romance of its Alfa Romeo badge enhances its appeal, and for the 2005 model year it gains a gentle, Giugiaro-guided facelift to bring it in line with Alfa's latest look. Most obvious are the broader front grille and the wider, pointier head- and tail-lights, while inside new colour schemes and fluted door panels give a visual lift....
Sophisticated suspension : The 147 has double-wishbone front suspension, like its big brother the 156. Costlier and more effective than the MacPherson struts provided by most other cars in the class (the 147 does use these at the back), this layout delivers excellent roadholding and, in combination with the quick-acting steering, unusual agility, Alfa claims. Anti-lock brakes are standard, as are traction control and, on the most powerful versions, VDC anti-skid control. The Comfort suspension uses dampers able to absorb short, sharp disturbances while maintaining good body control and taut responses - a chassis designer's Holy Grail.
