13.01.2004 ALFA ROMEO BELGIUM EXPECTING STRONG DEMAND FOR GT AS NEW COUPE TAKES CENTRE STAGE IN BRUSSELS

The new GT Coupe headlines Alfa Romeo's large display at the Brussels International Motor Show, which opened the doors of the 82nd edition, for press previews earlier today. Four models, representing the spectrum of engines, the 150bhp 2.0 JTS, and 240bhp 3.2 V6 24v petrol units jointed by the exciting technologically cutting-edge new 150bhp 1.9 16v M-Jet turbodiesel.

The new 4.48 metre long Bertone-designed sports coupe, represents a much overdue return for Alfa Romeo to this traditional sector. Based on the 156 saloon with an interior drawn from the 147, the GT draws on the marque's design and engineering heritage, while incorporating 'family' styling cues prevalent on the current range. Two different specification interiors are offered on a car which includes all the latest technology in the segment, including Bi-Xenon headlamps, up to 6 air bags, VDC, cruise control, Bose CD/MP3 8-speaker sound system, CONNECT Nav+ with radio and phone controls on the steering wheel and optional 16 or 17in wheels.

Alfa Romeo Belgium have high hopes for the new GT Coupe. The new 2+2 arrived in the dealer's showrooms just before Christmas and the first examples will start being delivered to customers within the next few weeks.

The huge demand for diesel power in the low countries has seen 70% of GT Coupes already pre-ordered being specified with the new M-Jet turbodiesel, the first of the second generation multijet common rail technology diesels. This builds on a growing trend in Belgium, last year 60-70% of all 147 and 156 models sold were JTD powered.

Pride of place on the large and spacious stand goes to a silver 1.9 M-Jet GT Coupe in 'Distinctive' specification, mounted in the centre of the exhibition on an angled platform. Flanking this model at the front of the display are two further GT's both offering M-Jet power. A pearlescent coloured version in 'Progressive' trim sits at an angle to an eye catching Nuvola blue finished car with a tan leather interior in 'Distinctive' mode.