Restyled versions of Alfa Romeo's charismatic sportscars, the GTV and Spider convertible, go on sale in the UK this month, featuring substantially more power from two new engines.

The GTV and Spider are the result of an ongoing design partnership between Alfa Romeo Centro Stile in Arese, Milan, and the famous Italian design house, Pininfarina. First introduced to the UK in May 1996, the GTV and Spider are built in small numbers at Pininfarina's premises in Grunasco, near Turin.

The four model GTV and Spider range, priced from £21,570 on-the-road, incorporates new exterior and interior styling, enhanced standard equipment packages and, in addition to other significant mechanical revisions, a choice of two exciting Alfa Romeo engines new to the range; a 165 bhp 2.0 litre JTS direct injection unit, and a 3.2 litre, 24 valve V6, as seen in GTA versions of the Alfa 156 and 147.

Alfa Romeo's new 4-cylinder, 2.0 JTS engine is among the world's most powerful direct injection petrol engines in production, boasting over 82 bhp per litre and torque above 74 lb.ft per litre.

Standard equipment levels have been comprehensively upgraded, and now include automatic climate control, a full Momo leather interior, electric windows and door mirrors, a stereo radio with CD player, and alloy wheels across the range. The hood is electrically operated as standard on all Spider Lusso models.

Leather upholstery, now fitted as standard, is available in Bright Black, Jerez Red or Tango, with leather inserts to door panels the colour of the seat piping.