Alfa Romeo Brera
Forget Easter bunnies and spring bulbs, this, apparently, is the Most Beautiful Car in the World. Well, that's what they say in Italy, where the Alfa Romeo Brera has just bagged such an award.
Aren't things a bit sticky for Alfa in the UK though?
They were, though the profit-curve is now recovering and there's a new boss at the steering wheel. Though he wouldn't put it so crudely, Christopher Nicoll has been parachuted in to kick ass among the group's dealers and force then to polish up their act. A few mechanical niggles dogged the shelf life of the 156 saloon, while the marque's blue-collar service compounded the problem and drove sales to a critical low. So with a new dynasty of models now edging in and the 159 saloon already here, Nicoll intends to see his front line offers the service BMW and Audi refugees expect.
And the new Brera?
So far, so very good. I've just tested the diesel 2.4 and it feels every bit as polished and sophisticated as it looks. The only question that lingers is why this model, based on the 159, won't replace the GT, based on the older 156. By some obscure twist of marketing logic, they're going to sell them side by side. And some critics have already pointed out that the GT has more practicality, given a rear seat capable of accommodating two adults and a boot that can deal with more than moderate hand baggage.
So the Brera isn't as good?
No, it's just different. It faces Nissan's 350Z, Mazda's RX-8 and Audi's existing and forthcoming TT, with prices kicking off at £22,800 for the 185bhp 2.2-litre version, extending to £29,800 for the showcase 250bhp V6 four-wheel drive model in top SV spec. That 159 platform has been sawn off by 175mm to give the chassis a stubbier and sportier stance. Looks-wise, there's no quibbling - this is the new class leader when it comes to visual impact, but from behind the wheel, it's not going to move the Alfa story on immeasurably.
Ah, so diesel's disappointing?
Not quite. Let's look at it in context. I've yet to drive the 260bhp 3.2 but the 185bhp 2.2 petrol lacks urgency in mid range and any overall conviction as a pulse-quickening motor. Against it, the 200bhp 2.4 JTD turbodiesel (from £26,400) has much more readily accessible torque and surge for open-country driving, though the steering feels soggier and less communicative, (unlike the equivalent diesel GT's) and the acoustics lack that signature Alfa growl. Interestingly though, the same sonic disappointment awaits in the 2.2 petrol. A sixth gear maximises on economy - delivering 41.5mpg overall, despite the respectable 8.1 second dash to 60mph.
These muted driving impressions could send you straight back to the dealer to try the comparably more exciting diesel GT - in essence, it's a more direct, vocal and exciting model to pilot through challenging roads. But, perhaps we're missing the point. It's clear that the Brera is groomed as more of a Grand Tourer. So perhaps the kindest verdict would be that in aiming for sophistication, Alfa has overshot and pushed slightly into - dare one use such a word with such a hot brand - blandness.
Blimey, so we're looking at half an Alfa, emotionally?
Half would be unfair. Thing is, on our hyper-regulated roads you were never going to throw this around like a superbike anyway, so if the steering is 80% of what it could be and the sound 50%, it's a bit academic anyway. The key point it whether it looks the part. And on that score, it's a clear maximum. If you're a sucker for looks, the Brera's heart is true, but if you want the ride of your life, it might not be a long-term affair.
I love it though - any specification tips?
Wheels-wise, smaller is better: the ride is sophisticated, as long as you stick to the standard issue 16-inchers. The 17-inchers on the SV spec or the optional 18-inchers feel firmer and less forgiving. If you shift heavy items, you might find the deep boot sill impractical, while a full-length, laminated and tinted glass roof with electric blind can be specified as an option, but it steals headroom in an already cramped dimension. If you're over six foot, choose carefully...
Tiscali verdict: 7/10 Sounds like a rabbit, goes like one (well, nearly).
