TO CALL the styling of some modern cars risible is an understatement. Even pre-school children doodling with fat crayons display a better sense of proportion ... while wrestling with other pre-school children.

But when it comes to an Italian car, it is rare to find any such visual awkwardness. There is something about Italian design that makes even a pair of loafers look sensual.

The Alfa Brera has a shape that can only be described as terrific - glossy photos of this curvaceous model should come with an R rating.

This three-door hatchback looks deceptively small but is not. The long and wide shape was penned by the famous Giugiaro and has won numerous awards. So even if the wide C-pillar blocks out all daylight, not to mention some rear side vision, it is forgiveable, especially when you admire the way both pillars flow smoothly from the roof into that very attractive tail. The Brera's pretty rump is matched only by its distinctive nose, which it shares with the Spider convertible, and 159 sedan and sport wagon.

Like most recent models from Alfa Romeo, the Brera is also very refined. Unlike the much older Alfas, a good driving position can be attained, although the front seat could go a lot lower for taller occupants. But the sports seats with their contrasting leather trim are great to look at, plus they are very supportive.

The cabin is also well-made with interesting details like the brushed aluminium fascia of the centre console with its trio of airvents and meters. And being an Alfa, there are some quirky features too, like the way the LED numbers of the trip meter scroll upwards, and how a chime is emitted when the speed is too low for manual upshifting of the six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Brera comes with two direct injection engines - a 2.2-litre four-cylinder unit driving the front wheels, and a 3.2-litre V6 Q4 or permanent four-wheel-drive. The former has a six-speed Selespeed gearbox, which is actually a clutchless manual transmission like the one used in a Ferrari, while the latter uses a conventional automatic box with a torque converter. The latter also has a smooth V6 engine and ample torque. There is rarely a moment when it feels like it doesn't have enough oomph for the occasion. The muted drone from the exhaust is also a comforting reminder of the omnipresent power without being an aural annoyance.

With all-wheel-drive, the Brera 3.2 is remarkably sure-footed in twisty sections. The steering, which feels unusually vague when going flat out in a straight line, instantly loads up and becomes more accurate. There is a lightness and fluidity that few cars in its class can match when going fast around curves and S-bends.

But along with the pros of the Brera's cosmetics and driving pleasure, there are a few cons. One of them is the lack of rear legroom - the two rear seats of this 2+2 are mainly for adults of small build and children.

Another downside is the price tag. At almost $200,000, this hatchback is extremely premium indeed. But if you have to rationalise, think of it as an exquisite work of art.

Engine: 3,195 cc V6
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic transmission
Max power: 260 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Max torque: 322 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
0-100 kmh: 7.0 secs
Top speed: 235 kmh
Price: $195,800 (with COE)
Distributor: EuroAutomobile. Tel: 6566-2200