Review
New cars have to work hard to get noticed, and none more so than two-seater roadsters, the net result being that some currently on sale look like four-wheeled fashion victims. But such criticism can't be levelled at Alfa Romeo's Spider, which, in common with other objects of true beauty, makes a big visual impact, seemingly without even trying.
The Spider is essentially a Brera convertible. Like the Brera, the Spider was jointly crafted by Pininfarina and Alfa's in-house styling department, but the end result is arguably even more successful.
The Spider's interior is special too. The driving position fully adjusts to fit all shapes and sizes while the design of the cabin is well up to scratch, as is the quality and feel of the materials used. The powered, five-layer cloth hood goes up or down at the touch of a button (no levers or catches), though these operations are completed at a leisurely pace. Unlike the Brera, the Spider makes no pretence at being a 2+2. Instead it features two small, lockable stowage boxes in place of the rear seats. The boot itself is small, even by class standards.
Two petrol engines will be available from launch; a flexible 2.2 litre four cylinder transmitting 185bhp through a sweet six-speed gearbox to the front wheels, and a brawnier 3.2 litre V6 with a six-speeder feeding a wholesome 260bhp to all four wheels. Although blessed with ample power, neither version feels particularly swift on the road, although the long-legged V6 makes light work of high speed.
The Spider steers quickly and feels well balanced but it's not a car that begs to be driven hard. And if you seek loud noise and firm ride then look elsewhere because the Spider is smooth, quiet and refined in all areas.
If not frighteningly sporty, the Spider is definitely a car to appeal to a far wider audience than traditional Alfa buffs.