Alfa Romeo automobiles have been rolling out off the assembly line since 1910. The 2024 Tonale is the first plug-in hybrid in the automakers’s history.
We got to test drive the Bellisima compact SUV Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti EAWD in Sunny, Arizona.
The Tonale’s handsome exterior stands out with its classic Alfa triangular grill, tri-LED headlights, and taillights.
The interior boasts quiet luxury with leather heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charging pad, interior ambient lighting, and an operated rear liftgate.
Interestingly, the start button is at the steering wheel’s bottom. Fire up this hot Italian SUV, and the 12.3″ digital gauge cluster becomes full of color.
The center dash is a 10.25″ infotainment screen that operates the sound, navigation, and fun vehicle settings. We like the DNA drive modes: D stands for Drive, N is neutral, and A stands for advanced efficiency if you want a less responsive feel but if you want to maximize fuel economy.
The Tonale is offered in one powertrain and all-wheel drive. Under the hood, you find a 1.3-liter four-cylinder electric motor paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that outputs 285 HP and 347 lb.-ft of torque. The 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides 30 miles of electric-only range before the gas engine starts. It allows you to keep more centissimos in your wallet to use later at Biancos Pizzeria.
The Tonale faces stiff competition in the luxury subcompact crossover class BMW X1, Mercedes Benz GLA 250, and the VOLVO XC 40
but it stands out as it’s the only plug-in hybrid option.
How does it drive?
It is a disappointment, stiff ride, loud cabin, and lackluster performance. Archives 0 to 60 in 6 seconds, failing to live up to its Italian heritage.
