ALFA Romeo brings New Year joy for diesel drivers with the introduction of its blistering 2.4-litre JTD Multijet engine.

The legendary Italian marque has taken diesel power to a new plateau with the introduction of the 175bhp powerplant.

Available in the recently restyled Alfa 156, the next generation in Alfa Romeo's JTD Multijet range produces spirited sportscar-like performance more akin to high-powered petrol engines, but still returns wallet-friendly economy.

Capable of catapulting the Alfa 156 saloon and Sportwagon from zero to 62mph in little more than eight seconds and restricted to a top speed of 140mph, the new 20-valve 2.4 JTD Multijet returns 53mpg (combined).

With 25bhp more power than Alfa Romeo's previous 2.4 JTD, the increased power to weight ratio ensures the Alfa 156 is one of the quickest and most economical diesels available on UK roads. State-of-the-art technology also ensures it is one of the quietest.

A spokesman for Pipers Alfa Romeo of Maidstone, said: "The new 2.4 JTD Multijet defies belief. Again, Alfa Romeo is leading the way in developing high performing diesels that still achieve impressive economy."