Spy photographers caught the 159 GTA on testing at Germany's Nurburgring circuit. Alfa Romeo will drop the Holden-built V6 in favour of a Ferrari V8 engine. The 159 GTA will compete with Audi RS4, BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG.

The 159 GTA will feature large low-profile tyres, slightly flared wheelarches, and side skirts. The prototype caught also wears a rear spoiler, unlike its predecessor the 156 GTA.

The 159 flagship will spread the greater power generated by a V8 to all four wheels with Alfa's 'Q4' all-wheel-drive system.