Alfa Romeo launches Tonale

Alfa Romeo has launched their Tonale, a contender in the hotly contested compact SUV segment, in South Africa. The Tonale boasts a host of Alfa Romeo design cues, a hybrid engine configuration and a focus on driving enjoyment that should see it stand out from the crowd. 

The Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a sensual and forward-looking design, while still including distinctive Alfa Romeo traits including five lug wheels, a cluster in the telescopic instrument panel, three-spoke sports steering wheel and the sine-curve headlights.  

Distinctly Alfa Romeo 

Subtle touches make the Tonale distinctively Alfa Romeo including a GT Line that runs from the headlights to the rear while the front features the inimitable Trilobo and the distinctive Alfa Romeo Scudetto shield, which acts as a central focus. The 3+3 headlights with full-LED Adaptive Matrix technology create a unique look while providing daylight running lights, dynamic turn signals and a welcome and goodbye feature. The taillights take on the same design cues as the headlights by forming a sine curve that wraps around the rear of the car. The alloy wheels are in a distinctive telephone dial style. 

Inside story 

The interior is strongly focused on the driver, with easy access to all controls. Passengers are given the ideal space to travel in comfort. The driver oriented dashboard is characterised by slim central air conditioning vents and distinctive turbine side vents. These elements are embellished by a diamond-textured theme, seen on the vents, central tunnel and handles. Ergonomic seats are perfect for everyday use and feature a young and dynamic style resulting from the use of neoprene fabrics. 

Standard equipment includes a fully digital 12.3-inch screen and a 10.25-inch touchscreen unit. The system has been designed to work with widgets that can be customised via quick and easy drag and drop. Wireless Mirroring via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows an engaging driving experience free from distractions. 

The Tonale is fitted with active and passive safety features including front, side and curtain airbags. Innovative devices and technologies that perfect the interaction between the driver, the vehicle and the road include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering and Traffic Jam Assist amongst others. 

Under the bonnet 

The Tonale is fitted with a 118kW Hybrid VGT engine that has been exclusively developed for Alfa Romeo. This 1.5-litre turbocharged engine is paired with a 48-volt 15kW, 55Nm P2 electric motor and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that drives the front wheels. The Tonale is capable of being driven on electric power only at low speeds. Veloce and Speciale models are also fitted with exclusive aluminium shift paddles. 

Alfa Romeo’s DNA system is a driving mode selector with specific functions related to the electric powertrain in the Tonale across the Dynamic, Natural and Advanced Efficiency modes. 

Sporty underpinnings 

The Tonale features Independent McPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping technology, excellent weight distribution, direct steering and an Integrated Brake system, all of which result in a vehicle that is rewarding to drive in conjunction with its inherent features such as a high roof and high ground clearance. Alfa Romeo’s electronic self-locking differential comes standard on the Tonale, built into the DNA selector, the system exploits the effect of the braking system by simulating a limited mechanical differential. 

Model range and pricing 

All Alfa Romeo Tonale models are sold with a five-year/100 000km warranty and a five-year 100 00km maintenance plan. 

Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti                             R739 900 

Alfa Romeo Tonale Speciale             R799 900 

Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce               R819 900 

Browse the New Alfa Romeo Tonale here.