TURIN, Italy — Alfa Romeo is overhauling two of its cars for 2008, the Brera and its convertible cousin, the Spider. This will be the first time the models have undergone significant changes since their introductions in 2005 and 2006, respectively.
A simple face-lift isn't what Alfa Romeo had in mind when reworking the Brera. Although the outside updates are limited to minor cosmetic changes, including new Ice White paint and 18-inch, 10-spoke rims, the majority of the changes can be found on the inside.
Alfa has put in new front seats in a "sporty" configuration for better ergonomics and simpler adjustment, and the dash has been revamped to offer an integrated satellite navigation system and dual-zone climate controls. Subtle paint changes have been made on the dash, steering wheel and control panel, which Alfa says are meant to give the car a more "plucky" look.
Alfa has also installed aluminum alloy wheels, aluminum front suspension brackets and monoblock aluminum brake calipers — resulting in a small change to the overall weight of the car.
A few powertrain options are offered: a 185-horsepower 2.2-liter and a 260-hp 3.2-liter, both direct injection and both with an automatic six-speed gearbox. The larger engine has an available Q-Tronic automatic transmission, while the 2.2-liter can be fitted with automatic Selespeed. A 20-valve 2.4-liter turbodiesel Multijet is available, making 200 or 210 hp, depending on transmission choice.
What this means to you: That timeless Alfa Romeo look and feel meet the early 21st century. — Paul Tassi, Correspondent
A simple face-lift isn't what Alfa Romeo had in mind when reworking the Brera. Although the outside updates are limited to minor cosmetic changes, including new Ice White paint and 18-inch, 10-spoke rims, the majority of the changes can be found on the inside.
Alfa has put in new front seats in a "sporty" configuration for better ergonomics and simpler adjustment, and the dash has been revamped to offer an integrated satellite navigation system and dual-zone climate controls. Subtle paint changes have been made on the dash, steering wheel and control panel, which Alfa says are meant to give the car a more "plucky" look.
Alfa has also installed aluminum alloy wheels, aluminum front suspension brackets and monoblock aluminum brake calipers — resulting in a small change to the overall weight of the car.
A few powertrain options are offered: a 185-horsepower 2.2-liter and a 260-hp 3.2-liter, both direct injection and both with an automatic six-speed gearbox. The larger engine has an available Q-Tronic automatic transmission, while the 2.2-liter can be fitted with automatic Selespeed. A 20-valve 2.4-liter turbodiesel Multijet is available, making 200 or 210 hp, depending on transmission choice.
What this means to you: That timeless Alfa Romeo look and feel meet the early 21st century. — Paul Tassi, Correspondent
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