AN Alfa Romeo station wagon may seem like a contradiction in terms. The Italian marque is renowned for producing cars with ample style and performance - but not much in the way of practicality. The company is obviously out to change this perception with its 156 Sportwagon, which is claimed to deliver similar performance and handling to its sedan sibling, along with the versatility of a wagon. This is great in theory, but an elusive balance to achieve in practice.