Alfa Romeo Brera Coupe 2006 - Present

Alfa's Brera was not meant to be a production car at all. It started life as an ItalDesign concept car based around a Maserati in 2003. Due to demand Alfa went ahead with a production version and what a treat it is. It was developed alongside the 159 and shares exterior and interior styling cues, as well as engines and gearboxes. Having another coupe already in their line-up (the GT), Alfa have cut loose with a less practical car, sacrificing rear space for elegance and enhanced driving ability.

As with most of the Alfa Range the Brera is a great looking car. It makes no pretence of being anything other than a driver's car, something to enjoy whether you're popping out to the shops or driving cross county. It's neatly rounded curves and squat stance look specifically designed for the business of driving. Inside the car the seats are extremely supportive and comfortable, although the back seats offer little space for anyone of adult size. The low stance of the car means that you very much climb down into it. As standard the Brera comes with automatic climate control and electric windows. Boot space is generous at 300 litres, ample space for a couple of cases, although the sill can make loading a little tricky

Once in it's natural habitat, namely on the road, the Brera offers great levels of performance, but only if you drive it right. Right through the range the engines are rewarding, they are lively and entertaining to drive. The 2.2L will go from standing to 60 mph in eight and a half seconds, with the five cylinder 2.4 JTDm trimming that down to eight seconds. The oil burner suffers a little from turbo lag but only for a second, and once over that powers right through the rev range. The pokiest option is the 3.2 V6 which will get to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, topping out at 155. The petrol engines may have the edge on performance but that comes at a price. The 3.2 V6 weighs in with 24 mpg and the 2.2 suffers 30 mpg. If you're looking to reduce running costs the diesel returns 41 mpg.

The steering is sharp and the suspension is firm and set for grip on the roads, which really draws the driver in and offers a great experience. The Brera suffers from virtually no body roll and the precise steering pilots the car exactly where you want it to go. There is a stability control system to help straighten the car up if it detects a skid. The drive is perhaps eclipsed by some of it Japanese rivals, but it's going to be a matter of personal taste.

Alfa have put a lot of work into getting more of their models on the road and the results of this are a range of great cars. They are unlikely to take over the UK car market, but will surely make those that do buy their cars very happy.

Leave a comment

Type into the box below