Alfa unleashes faster coupe

The new Alfa Romeo Brera will supersede the discontinued GTV coupe in the UK in early 2006.

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The new Alfa Brera will supersede the discontinued GTV coupe in the UK in early 2006.

The two-plus-two coupe was originally unveiled as a concept in 2002 but will not make its production debut until the Geneva Motor Show in March 2005.

While it is a little shorter than the current 156-based GT, which is also a two-plus-two coupe and will continue to be offered, the Brera is taller and wider. It is bigger than the GTV in every direction.

Engines are also more powerful than those in the GT and GTV, so it is likely to be a little more expensive as result. Alfa has not announced prices but the cheapest 185bhp 2.2-litre petrol version is likely to cost around £23,000. The cheapest Alfa GT, the 2.0-litre JTS, costs £21,495.

Buyers will also have the option of a new 260bhp 3.2-litre petrol engine and a 200bhp 2.4-litre diesel. The 260bhp petrol engine replaces Alfa ’s current 240bhp 3.2-litre unit, which will be discontinued in 2006 when it will no longer meet emissions standards.

A Spider drop-top version of the Brera is likely to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2005.

Alfa ’s Q4 four-wheel-drive system will be available on higher-spec versions of the Brera. However, the company would not say whether two-wheel drive versions will be front- or rear-wheel drive.

The Brera is thought to be based on a new platform, which is also likely to be used for a replacement to the 156 compact executive car– on sale at the end of 2005. The replacement for the 156 will probably make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

• The GTV has now ended production. Buyers will still be able to get hold of the remaining few cars until the summer but should haggle for discounts of at least 15%.