ALFA Romeo is confident that an extra version of its 147 will be a smash hit. The company believes a high-value derivative model will soon account for 60% of sales of the sporty three-door car.

'We will introduce a 2.0-litre car with a manual gearbox and the price will be substantially less than the Selespeed. It will be a competitive package,' said a spokesman when five-door versions of the 147 were launched at the Geneva Motor Show. All the new versions are expected to be on sale in May.