Chinese automaker Brilliance hasn't yet entered the European market and already it is planning to diversify its product line up with the BC3 coupé, unveiled in Geneva.

The design, like its stable mates, has been penned by an Italian design house, only this time the Chinese automaker sought Pininfarina's assistance rather than Bertone's. The dynamic design (measuring 4480mm in length, 1810mm wide and 1390mm in height) gives the sporty Chinese coupé a wide stance, enhanced by 18-inch alloy wheels. The front end of the car appears wider than its proportions indicate. A long bonnet and deep front spoiler are complemented by large head lamps that extend far back into the side panels, while a long wheelbase promises to offer a spacious passenger compartment with four usable seats. The roof line gently slopes down to the rear which is adorned with wraparound tail lamps to further accentuate the sleek appearance.

Power for the BC3 coupé will come from a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured by Brilliance. It is the first independently developed engine produced by the Chinese automaker, and is claimed to create 170bhp and a maximum torque rating of 173lb.ft. Brilliance claims that the car will sprint from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds and top out at 137mph. The BC3 also gets a choice of either a five-speed manual or an automatic transmission.

With a chassis breathed upon by Porsche's development centre (as with its saloon siblings), the BC3 is claimed to meet the requirements of enthusiast drivers, with a low kerb weight of 1452kg also holding promise.

In the cockpit, chromed instruments provide essential information to the driver while black surfaces with red accents denote a 'dynamic ambience' sought after by buyers of sporting coupés. Leather sport seats are also trimmed in black and red, with the driver's seat including side bolsters and six-way power adjustment to ensure a comfortable driving position. The front seats are said to provide "sufficient" leg room for passengers while still retaining space for occupants in the rear.

A comprehensive list of standard features in the BC3 includes power steering, automatic climate control, an electric sunroof, electric windows and a CD audio system. Safety features are also on the list, including front and side airbags, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake boosters, an electronic differential lock and disc brakes all around.

For the moment, the Brilliance BC3 is strictly a show car, but the automaker has plans to introduce the show car in Europe by the end of the year. We'll see if the coupé makes it over to UK shores.

Eric Gallina - 14 Mar 2007