The 147 was just as well received in Japan when it entered the Japanese market in 2001, despite its relatively high price tag. Part of the reason for its popularity was the "Selespeed" semi-automatic gearbox (adopted from the Alfa Romeo 156). In 2005, the model designation "Ti" that had traditionally graced the company's high-profile sports cars was added to the 2.0 Twin Spark. This Ti's suspension was specially tuned for improved handling and featured new gauges that set it apart from the standard Twin Spark model, thrilling enthusiasts all over Europe.