Main technical features

To start with, the Twin Phaser system adopts new cam lobes which allow the phase angle to be varied by 50 degrees on both axes. This makes it possible to improve performance because the best phase can be chosen at all engine speeds, and to reduce consumption and emissions with partial loads, by the Miller cycle. This combustion system, which is based on the postponed opening and closing of the inlet and exhaust valves - extends the expansive phase (converting more heat into energy), guarantees internal EGR (by preventing the release of the last exhaust gases, full of unburned particles) and postpones the closure of the inlet valve (reducing pumping losses).

Another peculiar feature of the 2.2 JTS engine on the Alfa Brera is the camshaft drive system which uses a chain: unlike a conventional belt drive, this system has the advantage of not needing to be replaced during the lifespan of the engine. And to guarantee the performance one expects of an Alfa Romeo, the timing diaphragm has also been reviewed, adopting larger profiles which make it possible to achieve a maximum power output of 6500 rpm (the system is fine tuned to operate at over 7,000 rpm, the maximum rev speed allowed by the electronic speed limiter).

And more. To achieve the best volumetric efficiency, the maximum lift reaches 10.3 mm, while to enhance vibrational and acoustic comfort, the engine is equipped with two counter-rotating balancer shafts which virtually eliminate the second degree alternate forces that are typical of straight-4 engines. The generous power delivery of the engine (80 bhp/l on the 2.2 JTS) made it necessary to adopt sodium-cooled exhaust valves.

The combustion chamber is shaped like a roof with four valves per cylinder: with a bore of 86 mm, the large inlet valves measure 35.3 mm and the exhaust valves 30.3 mm, guaranteeing excellent permeability to enhance engine performance. And, in spite of the stroke of 94.6 mm, in order to limit the overall height of the engine, the engineers have modified the piston height, achieving a compression value of just 28 mm, which is excellent in view of the high power delivery.

Where the exhaust, injection and ignition systems are concerned, the two 4-cylinder JTS engines both adopt the strategies and features illustrated for the new 3.2 V6 engine.


Safety and dynamic performance at the peak of its segment

Attractive styling, great character and outstanding automotive engineering: the Alfa Brera complements these distinctive traits with other attributes and saves its best hand for the fields of safety and dynamic performance. While driving satisfaction has always been one of Alfa's hallmarks, travelling satisfaction is a compulsory choice when the car must assure outstanding comfort in addition to Alfa character. The Alfa Brera therefore comes with high double wishbone suspension and Multilink suspension systems. This configuration ensures outstanding dynamic performance and also excellent comfort. The person behind the steering wheel can therefore make the most of the car's great sporting performance without having to give up the high standard of driving comfort afforded by the suspension. The Alfa Brera also adds sporting attitude; the Q4 four wheel drive system on the 3.2 V6 version - and the most advanced electronic devices to control the vehicle's dynamic behaviour (sophisticated VDC with non-intrusive sports setting, complete with ASR and MSR). Not to mention, naturally, the numerous devices and systems that help ensure the highest standards of passive safety.


Roadholding: driving satisfaction and active safety

The new Alfa Brera is self-avowedly an Alfa in its uncompromising sense of control and driving satisfaction. Driving comfort and dynamic behaviour have always been specific features of Alfa Romeo cars: on this car, they amount to a real strength. First and foremost, the Alfa Brera is fitted with suspension systems that are appealing by any standards, the outcome of a new design that aims to achieve results of maximum excellence: the front suspension is high double wishbone type and the rear is multilink. Hence a greater capacity to absorb road roughness; maximum linearity and precision in the steering response - and great roadholding, maximum stability in high-speed manoeuvres and the agility of a true Alfa Romeo over tight mixed routes. In detail, the products adopted and the benefits immediately perceptible to customers are as follows:

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