Alfa Romeo's Q4 is a permanent four-wheel drive system. The system uses three differentials, with a self-locking Torsen C unit at the centre of the system which divides drive torque by a ratio of 57 per cent to the rear wheels and 43 per cent to the front in normal driving conditions. Alfa claim that torque is split between front and rear axles and constantly modulated by the central Torsen differential on the basis of available grip. The system has a bias towards the rear axle drive in an effort to deliver the type of handling characteristics appropriate to a sports saloon car.

The new Alfa Romeo 159 TI has got the performance credentials and the engineering design packaged in a stylish and modern looking car. Prices start at €51,950 (before delivery charges) for this 3.2 litre V6 performance version, which is price competitive relative to the Audi 4 and BMW 530i competition.

For Alfa drivers it's the residuals that are the issue but then these can be relative when you're starting from a lower base price.

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