A new Alfa Romeo is always something of an event, especially to the brand faithful – the ‘Alfisti’ – and the arrival of the three-model Tonale range is no exception and marks the first hybrid from the marque on local shores.
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Following closely to the design of the original concept car, the Tonale hauls its body through a 1.5-litre variable-geometry turbocharged, internal combustion engine. The engine matches a seven-speed Alfa Romeo TCT dual-clutch transmission that combines with the 48-volt 15 kW, 55 Nm ‘P’2’ electric motor.
The new four-cylinder turbocharged engine operates on the Miller cycle with a high compression ratio (12.5:1), a new cylinder head with a compact combustion chamber, dual variable valve timing and special ‘high-tumble’ intake ducts.
Alfa Romeo says the car is targeting a young, metropolitan, and dynamic customer. Styling includes the 5-hole wheel rims, the cluster in the ‘telescopic’ instrument panel, the 3-spoke sports steering wheel, and the sine-curve headlights are part of the subtle features that make Tonale distinctively Alfa Romeo.
These include the ‘GT Line’ that runs from the rear to the headlights, referencing the Giulia GT with some cues reminiscent of iconic models such as the 8C Competizione. The front features the inimitable ‘Trilobo’ and the distinctive Alfa Romeo ‘Scudetto’ shield.
Fully digital 12,3-inch screen and a 10,25-inch touchscreen unit
As standard, the Tonale comes with a built-in and all-new infotainment system, including a fully digital 12,3-inch screen and a 10,25-inch touchscreen unit.
Built-in is level 2 autonomous driving with new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that includes Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC), Lane Centering (LC) and Traffic Jam Assist.
The latter automatically adjusts speed and trajectory to keep the car in the centre and at a distance from other vehicles.
Also included are Autonomous Emergency Braking, Drowsy Driver Detection, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Path Detection.
However, Alfa Romeo has always been about the driving experience and comes with the most direct steering in its class (13.6) with the Integrated Brake System (IBS).
Braking is via Brembo fixed callipers with four pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and full discs at the rear with the fully independent MacPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers giving the true Alfa feel on the road.
Alfa Romeo Tonale side view
The DualStage Valve electronic suspension, available on Veloce models, provides a choice between performance and comfort. Developed in conjunction with Marelli – a historical technology partner of Alfa Romeo – the electronic shock absorbers feature a special electro-actuated valve within the shock absorber that provides independent damping curves.
Alfa Romeo’s electronic self-locking differential comes as standard on Tonale - combined with the MacPherson front suspension - ensures sporty and effectual driving dynamics by controlling vehicle stability and redirecting the power to the wheels when accelerating on corners.
Alfa Romeo Tonale rearview
The system also provides improved control on slippery surfaces and an understeer ability that transfers torque from the inner to the outer wheel to ensure linear acceleration and better road holding.
Pricing
MODEL
Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti 1.5L FWD 7AT
Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.5 FWD 7AT
Alfa Romeo Tonale Speciale 1.5 FWD 7AT
MSRP (incl. VAT)
R739, 900.00
R819, 900.00
R799,900.00
WARRANTY
5 Year / 100 000 km
5 Year / 100 000 km
5 Year / 100 000 km
MAINTENANCE
5 Year / 100 000 km
5 Year / 100 000 km
5 Year / 100 000 km
