Ok, so the car is euro: nice interior, good driving position, nice dash, etc. The only bad thing, is the rear windows are manual (wind up). This is a distinctly Euro trait, so i expected it. No problem for me.
The transmission is a Duralogic gearbox. basically a manual transmission, but the car operates the clutch for you.
Here is a pic of the gear shifter:
Like I said, it is a manual gearbox, so the car WILL roll if it is in gear and you take your foot off the brake. There is an option (Hill assist) that will hold the car in place; This car did not have it though.
Now, driving impressions:
In auto mode, the car takes some getting used to, because it still feels like a manual, so at first the ride was a little jerky. However once you get used to it, it is ok. BUT, this car was meant to driven in manaul mode! I drove it like a manual, launched the car, almost smoked the tires in 1st, pulled hard in second, etc. Drive the car like a manual car, and it will behave like a manual car, with all the the feedback, throttle blipping when downshifting, lovely noises, the whole nine yards!
The car handles very well, with minimal body roll, and the ride is firm without being harsh. The bravo I drove had 16" rims with continental tires - not bad, but I would go up to 17s.
So in conclusion, I would say this car is very appealing to me, as a person who needs an everyday car that I can solodex on weekends - because believe you me, this car is solodex beast! at $184k it is the best value for money I have seen in a new car: comfort, style, good looks, and a great driving experience. It is not an EVO or a WRX, so do not expect that level of power, but I dare say that on a twisty road, the bravo can hold it's own.
In conclusion, I have one thing to say:
I want this car, or better yet the version with 150hp!!!!!