ALFA Romeo’s 147 GTA, recently described as the world’s most powerful production hatchback, can be seen at the British International Motorshow in Birmingham, until November 3.

The car, which goes on sale in the UK next year, is powered by the 250bhp 3.2-litre 40HC all-aluminium Alfa V6 that powers the 156 GTA and 156 Sportwagon GTA.

The high performance newcomer is wider and lower than its 147 stablemates, running on 225/45 tyres and 17-inch wheels.

Sophisticated on-board electronic systems include ASR, to limit wheelspin under acceleration, VDC for stability control, MSR to modulate braking torque and TCS which is active on at low speeds.

Elsewhere, there are two further 147 versions on show, accompanied by the new second generation 140 bhp 16-valve 1.9-litre JTD multijet engine, which is to become available in 147 and 156, together with four versions of the recently revised Alfa Romeo 156 and 156 Sportwagon range.

With new interiors range-wide, a new highly acclaimed 165 bhp 2.0 direct injection petrol engine (JTS), a more powerful 150 bhp direct injection turbodiesel (2.4 JTD) and two high performance 250 bhp derivatives (156 GTA and Sportwagon GTA), the new range offers boosted performance, increased safety equipment and more lavish specification.

Also present is the ETCC-winning 156 GTA racer; a 2.0-litre version of Alfa Romeo’s flagship 166 range and a 3.0-litre version of the Spider sports convertible.