2006 Alfa Romeo Brera Preview

While the Brera should have enough firepower to challenge mid- to high-end sports cars, the weak point in powerful Alfas has

Alfa has worked hard to develop the 'Q4' power delivery system to seriously challenge the Germans through permanent all-wheel drive. (Photo: Alfa Romeo)

always been the chassis. Since its move to front- wheel drive, Alfa has once again reached the limits of power with the 156 GTA. The Brera will be a different story, as Alfa has worked hard to develop the 'Q4' power delivery system to seriously challenge the Germans through permanent all-wheel drive.

Rather than taking the easy route by using a Haldex-based system like Volvo or the Audi TT which only distributes significant amounts of power to the rear wheels when the front ones begin to slip, the Brera receives the latest Torsen C center differential, which has been set to send 58% of the power to the rear wheels in

The advanced all-wheel drive system will be standard equipment on the more powerful JTD and V6 models, while the entry-level JTS will make do with front-wheel drive. (Photo: Alfa Romeo)

normal conditions to create the balance and fluidity of a rear-wheel drive car.

To get the upper hand on whatever the road dishes out, the Q4 system is completely adaptable. Should snow or rain compromise traction, the Torsen differential can shift up to 70 percent of the power to the rear wheels, or up to 60 percent to the front wheels.

The advanced all-wheel drive system will be standard equipment on the more powerful JTD and V6 models, while the entry-level JTS will make do with front-wheel drive. Advanced traction and electronic systems which monitor braking and road holding will also provide an added edge in all driving conditions.