Overview
The British Rail Class 159 is a diesel multiple-unit (DMU) train type built for regional and intercity services. Constructed by BREL at Derby between 1989 and 1993, the type is a member of the wider Sprinter family and was marketed under the name "South Western Turbo" by Network SouthEast. Class 159s were introduced to modernise and shorten journey times on routes in southern and south‑western England.
Design and main characteristics
Class 159 sets were produced as two- and three-car formations intended for flexible regional working. They feature high‑level passenger access, standard gauge running, and systems that allow multiple‑unit working with other Sprinter family vehicles. Performance and equipment were chosen to balance acceleration for stopping services with reliability for longer-distance turns.
- Formation: two- and three-car units for regional/intercity duties
- Family: part of the Sprinter DMU family
- Role: replacement of some loco-hauled services and improvement of regional connectivity
History and development
Commissioned during the late British Rail era, the Class 159 was built at the Derby Works by BREL. The programme aimed to refresh rolling stock on routes radiating from London and other urban centres, improving service frequency and comfort. The type entered service at the turn of the 1990s and has undergone periodic refurbishment to update interiors and systems.
Operations, routes and operators
Class 159 units have been primarily associated with services in the south‑west of England, operating both commuter and longer regional journeys. They were introduced to replace older coaching stock on certain routes and have appeared in timetables operated by successive franchises. For operator histories and deployment maps see operator overview and route summaries.
Refurbishment and legacy
Over time many Class 159s received interior upgrades, improved seating and passenger information equipment to meet changing expectations. Their continued use into the 21st century reflects a successful balance of performance, maintainability and route suitability. Detailed technical notes and fleet lists are available at technical resources and fleet summaries.
Notable facts and distinctions
The Class 159 is commonly referred to by its Network SouthEast marketing name, but is technically a Sprinter family member—sharing design lineage and operational compatibility with related classes. For contextual comparisons and additional reading consult comparative guides.