Here are 5 things you need to know about the Alfa Tonale

Here are 5 things you need to know about the Alfa Tonale

Is there a more passion driven brand than Alfa? Beautiful cars, engaging driving experiences and up until now, just two models available. The Giulia, a stunning sedan and the Stelvio, an SUV version. Now Alfa South Africa has introduced its latest offering, the compact Tonale which usshers in a new era for the brand. Here is what you need to know.

Intended for a young, metropolitan and dynamic customer, the Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a sensual and forward-looking design. The Tonale encompasses the uniqueness of Italian design and Alfa Romeo style, blending a prestigious heritage while looking forward to the future.

Subtle features make Tonale distinctively Alfa Romeo, including the “GT Line” that runs from the rear to the headlights, recalling the forms of the Giulia GT along with full and elegant volumes, reminiscent of iconic models such as the 8C Competizione. The front features the inimitable “Trilobo” and the distinctive Alfa Romeo “Scudetto” shield, which acts as a central focus.

Inspired by Alfa Romeo's racing history, the interior is strongly focused on the driver, with easy access to all controls for a safe, unparalleled driving experience. The same care is reserved for the passengers, who are given the ideal space to travel in comfort. This results in an environment designed for and around the occupants, characterised by meticulous attention to detail paired with a constant quest for the highest quality.

The Tonale’s interior arouses real emotions, not to mention the latest technology, ensuring a connected and comfortable experience, while maintaining the pleasure of a sporty drive that always remains in the lead.

As standard, Tonale comes with a built-in and all-new infotainment system, including a fully digital 12.3” screen, the main 10.25” touchscreen unit, and a smooth, sophisticated multitasking interface, keeping everything at a glance without distracting your attention from the road. Totaling 22.5”, the two large Full TFT screens are best-in-class in the segment.

Technology is also at the service of safety and comfort: level 2 autonomous driving, with new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that act in line with the Alfa Romeo philosophy. Here again, the software is at the service of the brand’s DNA, with the focus remaining on the driver. All the systems therefore work without ever interfering with the driver’s experience, where control and the emotions of driving remain intact.

The Tonale debuts the 118kW Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) engine exclusively for Alfa Romeo. Its 1.5-litre variable-geometry turbocharged internal combustion engine paired with the seven-speed Alfa Romeo TCT dual-clutch transmission combines with the 48-volt 15kW, 55Nm “P2” electric motor to allow Tonale to be driven only on electric power at low speeds and when parking and cruising.

Tonale offers class-leading driving dynamics thanks to the best weight distribution and the most direct steering in its segment (13.6). The new Alfa Romeo is also the only model in its class to be equipped with the Integrated Brake System (IBS) and to include fixed shift paddles made of aluminium. The adoption of fixed callipers by Brembo, with 4 pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and full discs at the rear, contributes to the improved braking performance.

Justin Jacobs writing for CHANGECARS