|
|
The
Italdesign Brera prototype takes centre stage on the Alfa Romeo stand
for the first time since it has been confirmed that the 4x4 Grand
Tourer is to be put into production with a limited run of 1,000 examples
expected to cost around €80,000 each. "Not a storm, but
a flower unfolding". These were the words Giorgetto Giugiaro
used to define the Alfa Romeo Brera, a hugely attractive and gorgeously
styled concept car based around the engine, mechanicals and floorpan
of the Maserati Coupe.
The
prototype was introduced for the first time at the 2002 Geneva Motor
Show and received several international plaudits: "Best of
Show" from Autoweek magazine at the Geneva Motor Show; "Best
of Show" in the Prototype category at the Villa d'Este Style
competition; 2 category prizes at the Bibendum Challenge 2002, one
as "one of the most elegant in the world"; and the title
"the most fascinating car" awarded at the Paris to Montecarlo
Super Car Rally 2002. The Brera has also been nominated for the
Automobilia "Best looking car in the world" prize. An
entirely respectable CV, therefore, for this generously-proportioned
2+2 made entirely out of carbon fibre. The car is 1894 mm wide,
4388 mm long and 1289 mm high, even through the strongly tapered
front and rear give the model an impression of great compactness.
The
exterior shape is a succession of classic hints, an ideal place
where traditional brand motifs are brought right up to date. A quick
glance tells you all you want to know. The rear window, for example,
looks like the legendary window on the Giulietta Sprint. The rear
end also borrows distinctive traits from the Alfa 156 and 147. Further
retro hints can be discerned at the front: the bonnet has a Fifties
look, i.e. dominated by a shield embedded in the centre. The innovative
door opening system is based on a patented joint: when rotated outward
it propels the door forward.
Inside,
the Alfa Romeo Brera is a welcoming and highly sophisticated place
to be. The aluminium components are made warm and comfortable by
leather padding to protect occupants' knees and shoulders. The instruments
and controls are separate, while a generous central tunnel divides
the passenger seats to leave room for a high-tech steel structure.
The visual impact is uninterrupted, not least because the ventilation
outlets are in the door compartment instead of on the facia.
The interior lighting is managed by an innovative sensor system
that adjusts the darkness of the big upper window. Lastly, a Hi-Fi
system with diffusion system (Picasound) by Pierre Piccaluga offers
a sound performance 60% better than conventional systems.
|
