ALFA Romeo has launched new versions of the 145 and 146 hatchbacks, both called Junior 1.6 TS and replacing the 145 and 146 1.6 TS models. The two new Junior versions borrow a badge belonging to one of the most commercially successful sporting Alfa Romeos, the Giulia GT Junior of the 1960s.

The cars are equipped with the 1.6-litre 16v 120bhp Twin Spark engine introduced in the revised 145 three-door hatchback and 146 five-door hatchback in March last year. The two Juniors - costing £14,470.05 on-the-road for the 145 and £15,101.03 for the 146 - feature 15in alloy wheels and low profile tyres, body-coloured sideskirts, door handles and mirrors, exclusive interior trim. The 146 also has a body-coloured rear spoiler.

Meanwhile, the 1.8 and 2.0-litre Twin Spark engines first introduced in the 156 have been added to the 145 and 146 line-ups with no price increases. The engines have been upgraded from the existing 145 and 146 1.8 and 2.0-litre engines to 144bhp and 155bhp respectively.