Alfa Romeo’s Tonale: An Italian Crossover with Style and Efficiency
Alfa Romeo’s Tonale is a stylish and athletic luxury small crossover that brings Italian flair to the segment. Competing with the likes of Audi’s Q3, Mercedes-Benz’ GLA-Class, and BMW’s X1 and X2, the Tonale stands out with its unique design and efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The Tonale may not meet all of Alfa Romeo’s luxury expectations, but it still offers plenty of appeal. With a peppy and efficient powertrain, approximately 33 miles of all-electric range, agile driving dynamics, and classic Alfa styling, it earns a respectable 7.0 TCC Rating out of 10. In its second year, Alfa Romeo streamlines the Tonale lineup to one trim level but introduces a new powertrain option at the entry level. The Veloce trim becomes an optional package, and a special Tributo Italiano edition is added with styling enhancements and performance upgrades.
As the most affordable vehicle in Alfa Romeo’s lineup, the Tonale is slightly smaller than the Stelvio crossover but still maintains the brand’s distinctive design elements. The front grille, LED matrix headlights, and curvy side character lines give the Tonale a sporty and sophisticated look, even if it’s not as glamorous as other Alfa models.
Inside, the cabin features Alfa Romeo’s signature design language with rounded lines, a cascading dashboard, and a circular motif. However, the interior materials leave something to be desired in terms of luxury.
Under the hood, the Tonale offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.3-liter turbo-4 engine with a rear-axle motor for a total output of 285 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and all-wheel drive is included thanks to the rear motor. The hybrid setup provides an EPA-estimated 33 miles of electric range.
For those looking for a more affordable option, a new 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine producing 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque is available at a lower price point. This variant comes with all-wheel drive and a 9-speed automatic transmission but may struggle to distinguish itself from similar models like the Dodge Hornet.
The Tonale’s driving experience is characterized by agile handling, responsive steering, and strong brakes, though the ride quality can be harsh on rough roads. Despite its compact size, the cabin offers ample space for tall passengers in both rows and a maximum cargo capacity of 50.9 cubic feet. Interior technology is covered by a 10.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display, while soft-touch surfaces create a welcoming atmosphere.
In terms of safety, the Alfa Romeo Tonale comes equipped with a variety of advanced features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, active lane control, front and rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitors with steering assist. While crash test ratings are not yet available, the Tonale offers a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
Pricing for the 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale starts at $38,490 for the turbo-4 model, including a $1,995 destination charge. The hybrid variant is priced at $47,990 and includes a range of features such as a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional packages like the Veloce and the special Tributo Italiano edition offer additional performance and luxury enhancements for an extra cost.
Overall, the Alfa Romeo Tonale combines Italian styling, athleticism, and efficiency in a compact crossover package. While it may not be the most luxurious option in its class, the Tonale offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and technology for discerning buyers.
