The Alfa Romeo 156 was introduced in 1997 and won the Car of the Year award in the following year. It is a conventional three box saloon, but with concealed rear door handles. A variety of gas and diesel engines are available with either a five or six speed gearbox or a four speed automatic. Aluminum alloys have been employed for several components in both the front and rear suspension in order to reduce the weight. This theme of weight reduction has been continued in various other areas of the vehicle, for example in the front seats which have magnesium frames, saving about 4kg per seat. The structure was also designed to be light while also offering excellent crash protection.

In March 2000 the Sportwagon was introduced, 2001 saw the launch of the sporty GTA, available as both saloon and Sportwagon. This uses the V6 in a 3.2-litre 250bhp version, revised suspension, brakes and steering and a variety of aesthetic modifications. June 2003 saw a facelifted and revised Alfa 156 and Sportwagon range brought out. This was principally a cosmetic makeover, and saw the new, vertical grille grafted onto the nose, together with new headlights and slightly revised taillights.

The next addition to the range saw the addition of four-wheel-drive in mid-2004 with the introduction of the Crosswagon. The Crosswagon was designed to appear more off-road, with various plastic embellishments and a raised ride height.

The replacement for the 156, the Alfa 159 was launched at the Geneva Autoshow in March 2005.