The 147 was launched at the Turin Motor Show in June 2000 as a replacement for the Alfa Romeo 145 and 146 hatchbacks and is based on the running gear of the larger 156 saloon.

The 147 range was revamped in 2004, with the exterior styling changed to resemble the new 159 and Brera models, and Alfa Romeo Visconti concept car.

[5] In 1999, Alfa Romeo confirmed that it would replace its 145/146 hatchbacks with an all-new model, which was unveiled as the 147 at the Turin Motor Show in June 2000.

[6] The 147 was facelifted at the end of 2004: new front grille, new headlights, new rear lights, and the interior was changed on all models besides the GTA version.

Alfa Romeo presented a new limited edition 147 called Ducati Corse at the 2007 Bologna Motor Show.

[9] Connect is an onboard information system: an onboard telematics system located in the central console that via its 5 in (130 mm) monitor gave access to satellite navigation and hands free GSM phone as well as allowing the user to adjust radio and CD player settings.

The handling of 147 was praised in some reviews, in spite of criticism regarding the light (sensitive) steering, which makes some drivers feel less involved.

In 2005, this series ran alongside the World Touring Car Championship,[17] winner of the season of 2005 was Irish driver Eoin Murray.