- GSM digital mobile phone standard as part of Alfa Romeo Integrated Control System
- New suspension settings for smoother, more comfortable ride
- 17 inch alloy wheels and low profile tyres boost handling and road holding
- Electric seats gain a three setting memory for the driver's seat
The already lavishly well equipped Alfa Romeo 166 has received a further equipment boost in its new 2002 guise, with the range-topping Alfa gaining a GSM mobile phone integrated into the car dashboard, new suspension settings for a smoother ride and 17 inch alloy wheels boosting handling and roadholding.
Powered by the legendary Alfa Romeo 3.0 litre 166 kW quad camshaft V6 engine, the Alfa 166 has performance to match its classic Italian good looks. The 2002 Alfa 166 has a top speed of 240 kmh and it can cover the dash to 100 kmh in 8.5 seconds. The engine has also be changed to meet the new Euro Phase 3 emmision rules, enabling it to reduce emissions by up to 80 per cent.
Even before to the 2002 model year changes, the Alfa 166's equipment package could only be described as lavish and a benchmark for its class.
The standard equipment list includes luxury features such as a hand crafted Momo leather interior; cruise control; an eight speaker audio system with both a CD multi-stacker and cassette player; heated, electrically adjustable front seats; front and side air bags; self dipping rear view mirror; rain detecting automatic windscreen wipers; folding centre armrests front and rear; power steering, windows and mirrors; remote control central locking with remote boot opening and climate control air conditioning.
This centre dashboard mounted Integrated Control System (ICS) both simplifies the operation of some of the major features in the Alfa 166, including the new GSM mobile phone system, and reduces the number of buttons on the dashboard.
Built around an 8 cm colour LCD screen, the ICS controls the audio system, the trip computer, the ventilation system, the optional satellite navigation system and - now - the standard mobile phone system. Using a dashboard slot for a mobile phone's SIM card, the fully integrated GSM phone quickly and easily may be switched from mobile to car phone. The system includes full hands free use, a number storage system and quick dial facilities.
Along with electric operation and seat heading, the driver's seat now features three memory settings that allow each driver to quickly adjust the seat to the ideal driving position for safety and comfort at the press of a single button.
Already acclaimed for its sports car-like handling and road holding allied to excellent levels of ride comfort, the 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 benefits from modified suspension to aid all aspects of the 166's chassis performance. At the same time, the larger wheel and tyre size also enhances road holding and further improves the sporting style of the Alfa 166.
The 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 is priced at $79,900 including GST and excluding on road costs. The only factory fitted optional extras are metallic paint at $1,000 and an electric sun roof at $2,400.
"The Alfa Romeo 166 is the perfect flagship for Alfa Romeo," says Kevin Wall, General Manager for Alfa Romeo in Australia. "It combines classic styling, superb performance and real sports car like handling and road holding. And, more than ever before, the Alfa Romeo 166, like all the models in the Alfa, offers a high level of standard equipment and great value for money."
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