The Alfa Romeo 156 is one of the most iconic sedans ever produced by the legendary Italian carmaker. Unveiled in 1997 and produced until 2007, it marked a bold step in Alfa Romeo’s design language and engineering approach. Its sleek silhouette, hidden rear door handles, and aggressive front grille quickly made it stand out among European sedans of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The 156 replaced the Alfa Romeo 155 and brought back the sporty driving dynamics and passion the brand is known for. It was aimed at competing with premium compact sedans such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, and it succeeded in winning the hearts of many enthusiasts.
Throughout its production span, the Alfa Romeo 156 was offered in various body styles including sedan, Sportwagon, and even a high-performance GTA version. The vehicle featured both petrol and diesel engine options, combined with manual and automatic transmissions. It was praised for its handling, precise steering, and engaging driving experience, staying true to Alfa Romeo’s legacy. The car also introduced innovations like the Selespeed gearbox, which was a robotized manual transmission offering the convenience of an automatic with the feel of a manual. Despite some criticism over long-term reliability, the 156 remains a cult classic with a strong following.
When it comes to the battery requirements for the Alfa Romeo 156, several key specifications should be considered to ensure reliable starting and electrical performance. Since the model predates the widespread use of start-stop systems, standard lead-acid batteries are sufficient for all versions. The minimum battery capacity recommended is 55 Ah, which is adequate for basic petrol variants and less demanding electrical systems. However, for diesel engines or versions with more electronics, a higher capacity—up to 78 Ah—is advisable to provide additional reserves of power.
The starting current (cold cranking amps or CCA) required for the Alfa Romeo 156 ranges from 460 A to 780 A. Lower CCA values are typically suitable for smaller petrol engines, while the higher end of the range is essential for diesel variants, especially in colder climates where more power is needed to start the engine. It’s important to choose a battery that not only meets the required capacity and CCA but also fits the physical dimensions and terminal layout of the vehicle’s battery tray.
Although standard batteries are acceptable, choosing a high-quality brand with solid cold start performance and long durability will help maintain the Alfa Romeo 156’s performance, particularly for models equipped with additional electronics or used frequently in urban conditions. Replacing the battery with one that meets or exceeds these parameters ensures the vehicle starts reliably and all electrical systems operate efficiently.
Scroll down to the Alfa Romeo 156 article below to see exactly which batteries are suitable for each engine version.