31.08.2004 exclusive details on the production ALFA ROMEO 'brera'

Continuing a series of in-depth previews to Alfa Romeo's future range, Italiaspeed reveal exclusive details of Project 946, the replacement for the GTV and Spider. Based on first-hand information, the adjoining sketch offers a look at the production ‘Brera’, designed by Italdesign-Giugiaro.  

The new GTV and Spider are direct derivatives of the Alfa 156 replacement, sharing similar styling solutions and the same Premium floorpan. In fact, it appears as if the front wings will be shared on both models.  This gives the cars a direct link, providing an extended ‘939’ family which will also include the Sportwagon.   

The front of the newcomer has obvious similarities, with both the Brera concept and Alfa 156 replacement. The greatest difference between the original concept and the production model will be the headlights, which are now faired in behind clear lenses. This gives the face of the car a similar look to the new Alfa 166, although the bumper remains virtually unchanged from the Brera.

Round mist lights are now positioned in the outer air-inlets, whilst the inlets themselves are finished with large-pattern honeycomb gauze. The LED indicators are therefore positioned in the headlight units, as on the 156 replacement. The prototype which the sketch was based off did not show headlight washers unit, therefore Xenon will most likely be an option.  

The rear end also shares a great similarity with the Brera, with the raked glass hatchback section remaining. The lights are also of a similar elongated baguette design, whilst the bumper is well-curved. Single exhaust pipes project through openings from either side of the bumper.  

The interior also has a lot of similarities with the berlina, with what appears to be the same basic dashboard, with offset clock, fuel, oil and temperature gauges. The full-width glass-roof section as seen on the Brera remains.  

The greatest differences between the Brera and the production model are found on the sides. The flanks have now received a more chiseled and layered style, whilst the single side windows are now extended backwards slightly. The mirrors are also of a more simple design, and are different in shape to those fitted to the berlina. If anything, they look similar to the components fitted to the current GTV and Spider, and could be subject to change on the definitive version.  

Engines will include the new 250bhp 3.0 V6 JTD unit sourced from GM, whilst transmission will be RWD and AWD.

The coupe will be previewed alongside the 939 Berlina at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, although sales will start later on in the year at the earliest.  

Meanwhile, Alfa are experimenting with a larger coupe based on the longer 166 replacement Premium platform, using a modified Alfa GT as a mule.

by Stefano Maiano