Alfa Romeo has recently announced the resurrection of it's legendary GTA badge with 2 models based on the 156 Sedan and Sport Wagon. These GTA models feature a new 3.2 Liter version of Alfas 24 valve V6 engine available with either a 6 speed manual or Selespeed sequential gearbox.

This engine, which produces 250 bhp and 221 lb ft of torque, propels the GTAs to 6.3 second 0-100 kph time, according to Alfa Romeo.

The GTA suspension features revised front geometry, a quicker ratio steering system, with 1.75 turns lock-to-lock, larger anti-roll bars, and revised MacPherson struts. Along with upgraded rolling stock (225/45-17 Michel Pilot Sport tires on 17" alloy wheels). These changes give the car more athletic responses and greater ultimate handling than the standard car.

Alfa has also upgraded the 156 GTA's brakes with enlarged Brembo calipers and an advanced ABS system with integrated traction control aids (ASR and EBD).

The interior and exterior of both 156 GTA versions has been highlighted with subtle styling cues to differentiate them from the rest of the 156 models.

The exterior has unique front and rear fascias, a wider overall track with flared wheel arches and integrated side skirts, 17" 5-hole alloy wheels, and a twin-tip exhaust. The 156 GTA will be available in 10 colors including a Nuvola Red which is available exclusively on the GTA model.

Inside, the dash and steering wheel have been highlighted with the extensive use of aluminum trim, including on the steering wheel spokes and the addition of drilled racing-type pedals. The seats are heavily bolstered buckets with adjustable thigh support.

The 156 GTA also shares many interior amenities with the rest of the redesigned 156 range, including the multi-functional center display and safety features such as side impact airbags.

The 156 GTA models appear as part of a facelifted range of 156 models, which are available with a 1.6, 1.8, or 2.0 liter 4 cylinder, a 2.5 liter V6, and a 1.9 or 2.4 liter Diesel powerplant.

The newest engine in the range, called the 2.0 JTS (Jet Thrust Stoichiometric) employs direct-injection to produce 165 bhp at 6400 rpm and 152 lb ft of torque at just 3250 rpm. The JTS replaces the 2.0 liter Twin Spark as the top rated 4 cylinder powerplant, and is available with either a manual or Selespeed gearbox option. Although the focus of this engine is performance, it's lean burn construction allows it to meet the upcoming Euro 4 emission limits.

Other higlights of the new 156 range include standard VDC stability control, side impact air bags, dual zone automatic climate control, option Xenon HID headlights, and a central multi-function display which controls the vehicle climate and electronic functions.