Tonale SUV concept unveiled by Alfa Romeo

ABU DHABI: Before the Geneva Motor Show, there were rumours of a new SUV concept that Alfa Romeo was working on. Finally, we have got more information about the new Hybrid SUV concept (called Tonale) from the Italian automaker. It will be a mid-size crossover positioned below the Stelvio.

The Tonale embarks a new chapter for Alfa Romeo, being the first plug-in-hybrid model for the company and first CUV (Coupe Utility Vehicle). It will feature an internal combustion engine at the front and an electric motor at the rear. With this new setup, the drive modes have also been altered, you get Natural (regular hybrid operation), Advanced Efficiency (fully electric mode), and Dual Power (maximum output from both powerhouses). Apart from this you also get a new E-mozione button which offers specific throttle settings, direct steering response, and sharper braking.

The new Tonale will follow the ‘Mechanics of Emotions’ philosophy which Alfa calls a blend of beauty, energy, harmony, efficiency, and driving user-friendliness. The design of the new CUV is reminiscent of the bigger Stelvio. It rides on 21-inch wheels with bold body styling inspired by qualities from the Duetto and Disco Volante Spider. The headlights bring back the gaze from the SZ and Brera with its ‘three plus three’ design, the rear gets a unique wraparound windscreen and LED strip taillights.

The cabin of the new Tonale will comfortably seat four passengers and feature plush materials like Alcantara. The driver cockpit will get a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel while there will be a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. These new systems will be connected to Alfa’s Alfista and Paddock lifestyle and social communities network. The former provides a fully connected interface with select Alfa Romeo clubs and community events while the latter allows real-time viewing and purchasing of the latest interior and exterior performance upgrades.

Well, the new Tonale will usher a new era for Alfa Romeo, and even though it is an early concept, it gives us a clear indication of the direction the company is heading towards. The production version might have several changes compared to the one shown at Geneva.