Launched in 1998 as an executive car, the Alfa Romeo 166 underwent its first major facelift in 2003.
Unfortunately, the newly-revised model didn’t have the same glow as the initial 166, featuring a redesigned front end (no more stylish-dropped headlights) and renouncing the 2.0 V6 turbo engine.

The 2.5L V6 received a power boost and now delivered 188 PS, while the new top-of-the-range 3.2L V6 offered an output of 240 PS. Multijet technology and Sportronic gearbox were also new features available for the 166 model. Due to poor sales in right-hand-drive markets, the new 166 was discontinued in the UK, Ireland and Australia.

The first generation Alfa Romeo 166 was introduced in 1998 and was designed by Walter de Silva (Centro Stile Alfa Romeo).
Continuing the tradition of breakthrough design patented by its predecessor, the Alfa 164, this new model featured some innovative new looks - including a new headlamps design (dropped-like) and pointed nose. The new Alfa 166 was available with a wide range of petrol and turbodiesel engines and featured cruise control, climate control or ICS (Integrated Control System) on their top-of-the-range versions (designated ‘Super’). The car underwent its first facelift in 2003.