What is a problem, however, is the Brera’s interior packaging. Shortening the wheelbase may have helped its handling, turning circle and looks, but it’s decimated rear room to such an extent that only small children travelling behind average or undersize parents will find even a modicum of comfort. For everyone else, those seats should be regarded as a second storage facility after the deep, well shaped and quite spacious boot.
Even in the front, while the driving position is essentially sound, tall drivers will find their heads a touch too close to the roof for comfort.
But if you’re not bothered by, or are prepared to put up with, such limitations, at least you’ll be ensconced in a cabin with its full share of Alfa flair.
The way the main dials are deeply recessed in their binnacles and the trio of minor instruments angled towards the driver is pure Alfa Romeo. Go for SV spec (as we’d advise) and the brushed aluminium fascia and leather upholstery create a sense of class that few, if any, of its rivals can approach.
The cockpit feels snug and intimate, and with the ability to pull the steering wheel close to your chest, you soon feel the Brera is a car you can wear, rather than merely operate, which is exactly as it should be for Alfa’s most sporting product.
The Brera should also look after you well in an accident. Seven airbags are fitted as standard, and while a Brera has yet to be subjected to EuroNCAP testing, its structurally extremely similar 159 saloon sister has, and emerged clutching the full five-star rating.
You’ll also find all the goodies you might be expecting from a 30 grand coupé in the standard specification. Cruise and dual-zone climate control are standard across the board, but if you want the Brera’s full-length panoramic sunroof, stainless steel kickplates, folding mirrors or the aforementioned leather and aluminium interior, you’ll be writing a cheque for the more expensive SV.
