Alfa Romeo presents the new Tonale, the model that marks the brand’s metamorphosis while remaining true to its DNA of Italian sportiness since 1910. With the all-new Tonale, a radical evolution is taking place at Alfa Romeo which is looking ahead to a new era of connectivity and electrification.
Design: true to the concept car, Italian and unmistakeably Alfa Romeo
The definitive design of the new Alfa Romeo Tonale is faithful to the concept car from which it draws its origins, courtesy of the remarkable work done at the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo.
The Tonale offers a distinctive, sensual and forward-looking design, with new stylistic canons destined to remain as points of reference in the development of the future Alfa Romeo line-up: five-hole alloy wheels, the cluster in the ‘telescopic’ instrument panel, the three-spoke sports steering wheel and the sine-curve headlights. Its compact dimensions – length 4.53m, width 1.84m and height 1.6m – encompass the uniqueness of Italian design and the original, contemporary style typical of Alfa Romeo.
Exterior
The new Alfa Romeo Tonale is an evolution of the concept car first unveiled at the 2019 Geneva motor show. The Centro Stile Alfa Romeo have ensured a continuity of the concept car’s specification to deliver a production car that combines classic Alfa Romeo stylistic features, reinterpreted in the name of modernity, with the characteristics of Italian design.
The sides are notable for their extended curve below the waist rail, known as the ‘GT Line’, which runs from the rear to the headlights, giving definition to the car’s body and its profile. In the lower part of the sides, special modelling of the surfaces conveys sensuality and athleticism in the car’s body. All these characteristic elements are deeply rooted in the brand’s DNA. In terms of the modelling, its full volumes and sensuality are reminiscent of models such as the 8C Competizione.
On the front, the new floating ‘Scudetto’ shield stands out, no longer a part of the bumper but a distinctive element. The lower part includes two main side air intakes which together with the shield create what is known as the Trilobo. In the upper part of the front, notable features include ‘3+3’ headlights inspired by the SZ Zagato and the Proteo concept car.
The ‘3+3’ headlights, with new full-LED adaptive matrix were developed in conjunction with Marelli, the three modules make up a unique frontline for the car and simultaneously provide daylight, dynamic turn signals and a ‘welcome and goodbye’ feature (activated when the driver turns the car on or off). The Tonale sees the introduction of new lighting technology including Adaptive Driving Beam which constantly adjusts the dipped headlights according to speed and specific driving conditions; Glare-Free High Beam Segmented Technology which automatically detects traffic in front and traveling in the opposite direction to avoid glare from other cars; a third module which is automatically activated when turning corners to ensure the best lateral lighting. These technologies offer greater efficiency – in terms of durability and energy saving, with twice the light intensity of conventional halogen lamps and lower emissions – and improved safety, with less eye strain and better driving comfort.
The light unit is once again the star at the rear. It reworks the proposal made in the concept car, in a kind of sine curve that passes from either side of the rear and becomes the unequivocal light signature of the Tonale. The roundness and, now classic, fold in the lower centreline shape of the rear window characterises the car's upper rear volume, in a sporty yet elegant way evoking iconic cars like the 8C Competizione where the daylight opening (DLO), the edges of the side windows and the top of the rear window meet.
The new teledial alloy wheels, much appreciated on the concept car, now feature on the production model. This is the reworking of the perforated telephone dial theme, the result of an evolution that began in the 1960s with iconic cars like the 33 Stradale. Over time the perforations have gradually been increased in size, first to adapt to technical solutions and concepts, then more and more closely related to needs for brake cooling, lightness and resistance. The Tonale is available with a choice of 17, 18, 19 and 20-inch alloy wheels to enhance the model’s silhouette.
Interior
The interior design of the Tonale draws inspiration from the racing heritage of Alfa Romeo, evoking its passion, courtesy of its dynamic and powerful forms. The lines balance harmony and effort, and there is a tangible feeling that the entire vehicle is always ready to go.
Everything is driver-centric, even though the interior is also designed for the comfort of passengers. The driver’s seat has been tailored like fabric, with the diagonal tunnel, slightly undulating dashboards and instruments facing the driver. All the controls are at the driver’s fingertips and easily accessible, both the physical ones and the digital controls, accessed from the central display. As such, customers can enjoy an engaging driving experience free of distractions, where passion and safety coexist.
The characteristic elements of the new model include the telescopic instrument panel, with its clear Alfa Romeo stylistic matrix, and the compact steering wheel which ensures a precise and direct steering feel. The wheel is also embellished by the exclusive aluminium shift paddles.
The new D.N.A. driving mode selector, slim central air conditioning vents and external turbine shaped vents, the central tunnel and handles are embellished with a diamond texture inspired by precision mechanical processing with laser engraving. The dashboard also includes an insert with a backlight effect, so when the panel is off a graphic appears and when on the graphic vanishes and a new background is shown, using the multicoloured backlight. The same 3D features can be seen in the seat fabrics, from the basic versions all the way to the gradient effect with contrasting background colour in Alcantara and vegan leather, on the highest-spec versions.
The ergonomic seats are perfect for everyday use, upholstered in a neoprene fabric commonly seen in sportswear. The interior of the Tonale is an extraordinary, inclusive experience, made possible by an immersive, welcoming passenger compartment with the dynamic features appreciated by fans of driving.
New line-up strategy
Alfa Romeo Tonale introduces a new line-up strategy, making customer configuration even easier. Two trim levels are available – Super and Ti, both with clearly defined specifications that meet the needs of the most discerning customers. The Super trim, the gateway to the unique Alfa Romeo experience, can be customised with the Sprint pack, which includes numerous options with a strong sporty connotation. Alternatively, the Ti trim – which enhances the elegant and distinctive character of the Tonale – can be enhanced with the Veloce pack, to reach the peak in terms of performance and sportiness
State of the art electrification
The Tonale is fitted with a range of efficient hybrid engines that highlight the brand’s concrete commitment to a future oriented toward sustainable mobility. With the Tonale the brand has not simply adapted to the new standards, it has reinterpreted its DNA in the direction of energy, harmony with the environment, efficiency and intuitiveness when managing driving modes. This new technology means the Tonale can ensure an authentic hybrid experience. Two levels of electrification are available – hybrid and plug-in hybrid, marking the first step in the process to electrifying the Alfa Romeo line-up.
The 160hp hybrid Variable-Geometry Turbo (VGT) engine makes its exclusive debut in the Tonale. This version is equipped with front-wheel drive and a new hybrid technology. Its variable-geometry turbocharger, paired with a seven-speed Alfa Romeo TCT dual-clutch transmission and the 48-Volt 15kW 55Nm P2 electric motor, makes it possible for the 1.5-litre petrol engine to propel the wheels even when the internal combustion engine is turned off. Alfa Romeo has opted for this technical solution to offer an authentic electrified experience. The transmission enables start-up and travel in electric mode at low speeds and when parking and cruising, ensuring the typical performance of a petrol engine but with consumption (petrol and electric combined) comparable to a diesel engine, with an extremely linear power delivery and consistent acceleration.
The entry point to the Tonale world is the 130hp hybrid version, the new four-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with 130hp and 240Nm of torque, paired with the exclusive seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and built-in 48-volt 15kW and 55Nm ‘P2’ electric motor.
Top performance is guaranteed by the exclusive 275hp plug-in hybrid Q4, the most powerful version in the line-up in terms of performance and level of electrification. The advanced hybrid system combines the 1.3-litre MultiAir turbo petrol engine, from the Global Small Engine family, to provide traction to the front wheels while the electric motor is connected to the rear wheels. The system has a 15.5kWh battery and delivers a total output of 275hp. This makes it the sportiest offering in its class, with zero to 62mph in just 6.2 seconds. The plug-in hybrid version is equipped with Q4 all-wheel drive for an unparalleled level of safety and driving pleasure. The Tonale Q4 is also the most efficient plug-in hybrid C-SUV, with an electric range of up to 80km* on the city cycle and over 60km* on the combined cycle. In the name of maximum efficiency, a full battery charge takes 2.5 hours when using the 7.4kW fast charger.
All the specifications of the hybrid versions
The new 4-cylinder turbocharged engine has been designed to be the best fit for hybrid usage, to optimise thermodynamics, and save on fuel consumption. Its specifications include the fact it operates on the Miller cycle; it has a high compression ratio (12.5:1); a new cylinder head with compact combustion chamber; dual variable valve timing; and special ‘high-tumble’ intake ducts. It also features the all-new high-pressure direct injection system, operating at up to 350 bar.
Designed exclusively for Alfa Romeo, the 160hp version adds a new variable-geometry turbocharger, capable of combining great responsiveness at lower speeds and high power for a sportier drive, all while maintaining a high level of efficiency. The input powertrain delivers an output of 130hp and peak torque reaches 240Nm.
A belt starter generator is also installed in both engines, to guarantee fast and silent transitions when restarting. The Intelligent Brake System optimises the ‘auto-charge’ feature; it uses mixed regenerative braking to maximise the recovery of kinetic energy during deceleration, to improve efficiency.
This new hybrid technology means the Alfa Romeo Tonale can provide customers with an authentic hybrid experience with top performance and high efficiency. All this, thanks to the pairing of the new 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor, also provides an extra boost to optimise responsiveness. The driving experience also becomes genuinely versatile and relaxing, given the various features available, including:
The new Tonale can run in various driving scenarios using only the electric motor. This is made possible by the wide range of EV capabilities, which include:
EV capabilities are available depending on battery charge status and the output required.
Best-in-class driving dynamics: an authentic Alfa Romeo
Perfect weight distribution
One of the primary objectives behind the design of the Alfa Romeo Tonale was to achieve maximum driving pleasure. One element that contributed to this goal was the perfect weight distribution between the two axles. This required special management of mass and materials, which was done both by working on the car’s layout and by placing all the heavier components as centrally as possible. The Tonale versions equipped with front-wheel drive use the excellent balance of masses to optimise torque delivery on the ground and handling on corners, the latter is further emphasised in the Q4 all-wheel drive version by the torque available on the ground for each axle.
The most direct steering in the segment and exclusive aluminium shift paddles
In any situation and at any speed, driving the Tonale C-SUV is always natural and instinctive, partly down to the most direct steering ratio in the segment (13.6). The steering feeling, as precise and direct as can be expected from an Alfa Romeo, is emphasised by the adoption of the geometry in the independent front suspension. Rebound is reduced in the most genuine way, limiting the application of software filtering and optimising control of front wheel steering. The sportiness is further enhanced by the aluminium shift paddles: a hallmark of the brand and unique in this class.
Integrated Brake System (IBS)
The new Alfa Romeo Tonale adopts the Integrated Brake System (IBS), an innovative electromechanical system that combines stability control with conventional servo brakes. The integration between electronics and mechanics, significant weight optimisation, optimal feeling and the total absence of pedal vibrations guarantee the system an instantaneous brake response. The adoption of fixed calipers by Brembo, with four pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and full discs at the rear, contributes to the improved braking performance.
Dual Stage Valve electronic suspension
The Dual Stage Valve electronic suspension provides a choice between performance and comfort. Developed in conjunction with Marelli – a historic technology partner of Alfa Romeo, the electronic shock absorbers feature a special electroactuated valve within the shock absorber that provides independent damping curves. Two modes are available, Comfort and Sport. The former is the preset calibration in the D.N.A. Advanced Efficiency and Normal selections, to ensure the smoothest performance on uneven roads. Conversely, Sport mode predominates in the D.N.A. Dynamic and ESC Off modes, which reduces body movement and increases vertical rigidity, aimed at improved vehicle dynamics on corners. Finally, by pressing the dedicated button on the DNA selector, the calibration of Dynamic mode can be activated or deactivated.
Alfa Romeo electronic self-locking differential
On the hybrid (130hp and 160hp) versions, all with front-wheel drive, the Alfa Romeo electronic self-locking differential comes as standard, to guarantee perfect traction for a smooth driving experience, emphasising the agility and sporty character of the car, with a further positive impact in terms of safety. Built into the DNA selector, the system exploits the effect of the braking system by simulating a limited mechanical differential.
Combined with the MacPherson front suspension, it ensures sporty and effective driving dynamics by controlling the vehicle stability and by redirecting the power to the wheels when accelerating from corners. The system also provides improved control on slippery surfaces, as well as greatly reducing understeer, transferring torque from the inner to the outer wheel, so as to ensure longitudinal acceleration and consequently better road holding.
Alfa Romeo Q4 hybrid all-wheel drive
The plug-in hybrid Q4 version of the Tonale is equipped with Alfa Romeo Q4 hybrid all-wheel drive, to ensure ideal traction for safe travel on snow and ice. The combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, on which Q4 traction is based, provides higher torque than a car with a conventional combustion engine.
It also offers the option of high-precision adjustments at both start-up and in four-wheel drive mode on more demanding terrain when a lower transmission ratio is required. When road surface conditions are wet, slippery or icy and more traction is needed, the plug-in hybrid Q4 version of the Tonale becomes an authentic 4x4, with all the safety advantages that go with it. The system automatically activates the internal combustion engine on the front axle, which starts to drive the front wheels. At the same time, the electric motor in the rear starts up, delivering up to 275hp for a high-performance, fun and safe drive.
Independent MacPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD)
The suspension scheme, suitably customised for the Alfa Romeo DNA, provides for a MacPherson-type architecture. The geometry on the front axle is optimised for rapid and precise changes of direction, emphasising the steering feeling typical of Alfa Romeo. This reduces steering distortion, limiting the application of software filtering and optimising control of front wheel steering. In the rear, the exclusive three-arm geometry ensures rapid response when engaging and the highest level of lateral acceleration on corners. Last but not least, the suspension in the Tonale uses Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology – developed in collaboration with Koni, a historic technology partner of Alfa Romeo – to improve performance by ensuring perfect road holding and simultaneously improving comfort in all driving conditions.
Innovative technology for top safety and comfort
New ADAS systems heighten the emotions of Level 2 autonomous driving
The Tonale is equipped with new Alfa Romeo Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for Level 2 autonomous driving, for automatic handling of acceleration, braking and remaining within lane while maintaining maximum driving safety and leaving the pleasure of sitting at the wheel intact.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale enables Level 2 autonomous driving by combining the forward-facing camera, which longitudinally and laterally monitors all the car’s surroundings, and the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC) and Lane Centering (LC) systems.
The IACC system makes use of Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front, and the Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Control systems. The former uses the on-board camera to recognise traffic signs, reports them on the display, and alerts the driver of the current speed limit.
The latter suggests the driver reduce their speed to the limit detected. If the driver accepts, the cruise control settings are automatically adjusted. Conversely, the LC system controls the sideways movement of the car to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane, even in heavy traffic conditions.
Innovative systems at the service of safety
The new Alfa Romeo Tonale comes with active and passive safety features, suitable for everyday driving needs. As well as front, side and curtain airbags, innovative devices and technologies that perfect the interaction between the driver, the vehicle and the road come as standard across the range. Examples include Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vulnerable Road Users, to alert the driver of danger and bring the vehicle to a complete stop to mitigate a collision with, and recognise the presence of, a pedestrian or cyclist, and Drowsy Driver Detection which checks the vehicle’s movements to detect any driver fatigue. Once a certain threshold has been exceeded, the system emits beeps and/or visual warnings, recommending the driver stop for a break.
The Tonale’s features are enhanced by Rear Seat Reminder Alert, to detect an item placed on the rear seat through the tailgate. When the car is turned off, the device alerts and reminds the driver that the item is there. Optionally available are Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Path Detection and 360° View Camera.
Comfort and well-being on board, to be shared
The Tonale guarantees well-being for everyone on board, with its dual-zone air conditioning, sophisticated infotainment system, ventilated and heated front seats, ambient lighting and a 14-speaker sound system by Harman Kardon.
The Tonale is one of the few models in its class to offer the Semi-Automatic Parking system, which indicates the space available to park in and completes the car's entry and exit manoeuvres itself. The new model includes an electric tailgate and a wireless charging pad, in front of the gear stick, to place and charge your smartphone in safety and comfort.
The advancement of driving modes, managed in the Alfa D.N.A. system
In the Tonale, the Alfa D.N.A. driving mode selector features, for the first time, specific functions related to the electrified powertrain. Dynamic mode is designed with a specific calibration of the accelerator pedal, ensuring more effective braking and a more direct steering response. Natural mode continues to maintain the best performance optimisation and automatically manages the compromise between the use of the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. In everyday use, energy savings and consumption are not therefore at the expense of performance. Advanced Efficiency (AE) mode is calibrated for maximum energy efficiency in the hybrid version, while AE mode in the PHEV configuration runs the model in full-electric.
Record-breaking technology
Alfa Romeo uses software and connectivity to enhance the driver's experience, which is and remains the focus. Tonale therefore comes with the most advanced technology, to ensure a connected and comfortable experience, while maintaining the driving pleasure typical of an Alfa Romeo.
NFT technology
In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, a true innovation in the automotive sector. Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the ‘blockchain card’ concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle. This distinctive off-board feature emphasises the innovative nature of Alfa Romeo. Upon customer’s consent, the NFT will record vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used as a guarantee of the car’s overall status, with a positive impact on its residual value. On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on. In the meantime, buyers will be reassured in their choice of a second-hand car.
Amazon Alexa, to always feel at home
The major new features in the Alfa Romeo Tonale include the built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant, so you can always feel at home in your car, making the everyday experience even more straightforward and convenient.
Courtesy of the Secure Delivery Service, you can choose the Tonale as the place to deliver Amazon packages, by unlocking the doors and letting the courier leave them inside the car, all completely safely. You can also receive updates on vehicle status from the comfort of your home, find out the level of charge and/or fuel, search for points of interest, find your car’s latest location, send remote locking and unlocking commands, and much more. Alexa can also be used to add products to your shopping list, to search for a restaurant nearby or to adjust lights or heating connected to your home automation system, all while remaining focused on the road.
Large display and smooth, intuitive HMI interface
As standard, the Alfa Romeo Tonale comes with a new infotainment system consisting of two large displays – totalling 22.5in, a record in the segment – and a sophisticated, smooth and intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI), to put all the features at your fingertips. With a customisable Android operating system and 4G connectivity with over-the-air (OTA) updates, the new infotainment system also offers content, functionality and services that are always up to date.
In the middle of the instrument panel, featuring the telescopic design, is the new fully digital 12.3in TFT screen, to access all the car’s data and the settings for the autonomous driving technology. The cluster can also be reconfigured, using three layouts: Evolved, Relax and Heritage, the latter inspired by the brand's iconic models.
Embedded in the dashboard is an innovative 10.25-inch touchscreen inspired by the latest smartphones, to satisfy the tastes and needs of any customer. The system has been developed to work with widgets, graphic components designed for intuitive interaction with all the features, which can be customised by dragging and dropping them. Every user can create their own homepage, where each of the car’s features is an app in itself. With a simple horizontal scroll, the screens for Alfa D.N.A., radio, media, phone, satnav, air conditioning, connected services and ADAS can be arranged the way you want. It is up to the driver whether to use the rotary knob or touchscreen. The wireless mirroring function for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, are also standard on the Tonale.
Alfa Connect Services
The Alfa Romeo Tonale is equipped with Alfa Connect Services, the tool that offers advanced on-board connectivity and a range of services for your safety and comfort. My Navigation consists of apps to remotely search for destinations and Points of Interest (POI) as well as the Send & Go function, where customers can send a destination directly from their smartphone.
My Remote includes various services such as remote control of the car’s functions (opening/closing doors or flashing the lights) via smartphone or smartwatch, vehicle location, control of certain parameters (speed and area) and notifications if these are not respected.
The My Wi-Fi service provides the option to share the internet connection between devices on board, up to a maximum of eight. Using Alfa Connect Services, drivers can also access My Assistant where in the event of a collision or emergency, the occupant can contact the dedicated (24/7) call centre for help. In an accident, the call is made automatically to the national assistance phone number, or if the vehicle breaks down the driver can call for roadside assistance, with the car providing its coordinates so the rescue can take place.
The pack also includes a reporting service, to send information to Alfa Romeo on the health of their car, in a monthly email. With My Car you can keep the car’s condition and parameters under control while My Alert will alert the owner if theft is attempted, and My Fleet Manager is designed for fleet management.
CUSTOMERS AT THE CENTER OF THE ALFA ROMEO UNIVERSE: PRODUCT AND SERVICE QUALITY
With Tonale, Alfa Romeo launches a series of new services, which redefine the customer experience and will cover the brand’s entire line-up.
A digital experience: the customer purchase experience can take place online from the comfort of home, in three simple steps, by accessing an interface identical to the one used in dealerships.
Extended warranty: Relentless efforts to improve the quality of the end product have resulted in the availability of an extended Alfa Romeo warranty, lengthening the protection of the vehicle’s main components to five years. The warranty for the batteries in the hybrid Tonale versions has also been extended to eight years or 150,000 km, becoming the best offer in the segment.
Alfa Romeo Certified: dedicated to customers in the pre-owned car market, mirroring the new car shopping experience, the main features of the service are:
Made in Italy in Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples
The Alfa Romeo Tonale is built at the refurbished Giambattista Vico Stellantis plant – one of the group’s most advanced production sites – in Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples on a revamped production line dedicated to the new Alfa Romeo model, with a specially created ultra-modern assembly unit.
New Tonale UK pricing and specification are subject to a further announcement. For more information on the Alfa Romeo Tonale visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk.
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