Mason Bloom
Allow me to introduce you to the new Alfa Romeo Tonale. Although the Alfa Romeo’s latest automobile was unveiled in concept form back in 2019, delays such as the chip shortage forced the Italian marque to push its release back up until recently. Alfa Romeo teased the launch of the small SUV for the past two weeks, with enthusiasts like myself waiting eagerly. Here it is, in all of its glory.
Little has changed in terms of styling in comparison to its concept. The concept and production versions both include three LED headlights on either side of the grille, a second grille below Alfa Romeo’s traditional one, a full-width taillight bar, widened rear arches, and defined side skirts to name a few.
The Tonale also marks Alfa Romeo’s first PHEV; another, internal-combustion-engine-only power unit is available too. The hybrid option utilizes a 180-horsepower, turbocharged, 1.3-liter inline-four with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle. The engine powers the front wheels and the motor the rear, making for a combined output of 272 horsepower and an AWD setup. The engine-only option calls for a turbocharged, 2.0-liter inline-four producing 256 hp.
Inside the cabin, Alfa Romeo has brought the Tonale up to date with all of the latest technology. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging are all standard, and the 10.3-inch, center-mounted Uconnect 5 infotainment system includes Amazon’s Alexa assistant.
Driver’s assists are in surplus; automatic emergency braking, cruise control, and lane keep assist are all standard options on the Tonale.
The Tonale will also be the first car to come with a digital NFT (non-fungible token) certificate. This certificate will record your Tonale’s data throughout its lifespan, and will illustrate the vehicle’s service records. Alfa Romeo says the NFT will help the vehicle better hold its remaining value. Self-performed maintenance will not be recorded.
The Tonale comes in three trims: Sprint, Ti, and Veloce. It will go on sale in the first quarter of 2023. The Tonale marks the first step towards a fully electric future for Alfa Romeo, which will be here by 2027.
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