Introduction
A new Alfa Romeo doesn’t tend to come around all that often, so when there’s a brand-new launch, it’s a big deal.
And the Tonale has been a long time coming as its new compact SUV, and slotting beneath the Stelvio in the range, it’s been three and a half years since it was first shown in concept form.
It enters production with minimal changes from the concept car, and arrives to take on the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 in the hugely popular compact premium SUV class. We’ve already tried it in Italy, but this is our first time testing it on UK roads. Let’s dive in and see what it’s like.
Performance
The Tonale introduces electrification to the Alfa Romeo line-up, and it’s only going to be available with electrified powertrains. It launches with a mild-hybrid setup, though a plug-in hybrid version will join the line-up early in 2023.
Here we’re trying the mild-hybrid, though, which uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a small electric motor, producing 158bhp and 240Nm in all. Drive is sent to the front wheels (the plug-in Tonale will be four-wheel-drive), with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission being adopted.
Accelerating to 60mph takes 8.6 seconds, with the Tonale capable of a top speed of 132mph. In terms of fuel economy, Alfa Romeo claims between 45.3mpg and 49.6mpg, and CO2 emissions of 130 and 142g/km.
Ride and handling
Though the Tonale is based on the same platform as some Jeep products, Alfa Romeo has worked wonders to sharpen the driving experience. It handles really well by class standards, while Alfa Romeo’s ‘DNA’ driving modes let you choose between noticeably different settings. We personally like ‘Dynamic’ as this livens up the steering, and makes it quite enjoyable down the right road.
The mild-hybrid system allows for more ‘engine-off’ running ability than those in rival models too, and though the ride is on the firmer end of the spectrum, is still comfortable in daily driving.
The powertrain could do with a little more fine-tuning, though – particularly the gearbox, which can have quite a delay if you want to put your foot down.
Interior
The Tonale’s interior is a welcome step up compared to previous Alfa Romeos, with a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch touchscreen really helping to give the model a more high-tech feel. Both displays work well too and are easy to operate.
The Tonale will fit the bill well as a family car too, as it offers plenty of space in the rear seats for adults. The 500-litre boot is a great size too, and hardly any less practical than that of the Stelvio.
Equipment
Alfa Romeo is launching two primary trim levels on the Tonale – Ti and Veloce – along with a Speciale launch model.
Standard equipment is generous across the board, including the aforementioned digital displays, Matrix LED headlights, keyless entry, an electric boot and adaptive cruise control. The only thing we believe should be included as standard but aren’t, are heated seats, which form part of a £450 Winter Pack.
The spec of the Veloce and Speciale are broadly similar, and bring larger 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension, large aluminium gearshift for the steering wheel and a darkened styling kit.
Cost
If you act quickly, the Speciale version of the Tonale is the best value option, with prices starting from £38,595.
If you’d prefer a more conventional trim level, the Ti is available from £39,995 and the Veloce comes in at £42,495. Just be careful to go easy on the options, as beyond this price the Tonale starts to look quite expensive.
Verdict
The Tonale is the car that Alfa Romeo has been waiting on for some time, and it should work wonders in boosting the brand’s sales. It retains the Italian firm’s trademark glamour, yet brings a spacious and well-built interior and generous levels of equipment.
Though this mild-hybrid powertrain doesn’t do this SUV a huge amount of favours, if you can see beyond that – or are happy to wait for the PHEV – the Tonale is a credible alternative in this class.
Enquire on a new Alfa Romeo Tonale
