Alfa Romeo Tonale 2023 Long-Term Test: Balancing Rationality and Emotion

Alfa Romeo has been making a comeback in recent years, thanks to the positive impact of Jean-Philippe Imparato, the CEO of parent company Stellantis. The introduction of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) small SUV, is a significant move for the brand. In this long-term test, we will explore how well the Tonale balances rationality and emotion.

Month 1 – Welcoming the Tonale to the Fleet

The Tonale was long overdue in Alfa Romeo’s lineup, considering the popularity of compact SUVs in the market. The delay in its arrival was due to Imparato’s perfectionism and desire to ensure the electric-only range of the plug-in hybrid and the “Alfa Romeo touch and feel” of the mild hybrid were up to his standards. The plug-in hybrid variant, which we have as our long-term test car, was specifically designed to appeal to fleet customers.

Currently, the 1.5-litre mild hybrid powertrain is more popular, accounting for 58% of sales. However, Alfa expects the balance to shift as the full availability of the 1.3-litre PHEV comes into play in the UK. This will also improve Alfa’s overall sales standing, which has seen a 7.6% decline year to date due to the transition away from internal combustion cars and the delay in PHEV availability.

The Tonale might not be the Alfa of your dreams, but it is the Alfa that the company desperately needs. With over half of Tonale sales going to fleets and the SUV already accounting for two-thirds of the brand’s UK sales, it is a crucial model for Alfa Romeo.

Life with a Tonale PHEV: Month 1

One of the standout features of our Tonale PHEV is its eye-catching Montreal Green color, which adds a touch of Italian flair to the streets. The car also comes equipped with the Mode 3 charging cable and the autonomous driving L2 pack, which includes advanced driving assistance features.

The powertrain of the Tonale PHEV is an uprated version of the one found in the Jeep Compass 4xe. It combines a 177bhp four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with more powerful electric motors, delivering four-wheel drive and a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds. The larger battery capacity of 15.5kWh promises up to 48 miles of electric range, making it appealing for daily commuting.

Although initial road tests have criticized the PHEV powertrain for not aligning with Alfa Romeo’s sporting heritage, living with the car on a day-to-day basis may provide a different perspective. The Tonale is competitively priced compared to its key rivals, such as the BMW X2 and Jaguar E-Pace, and offers a glimpse into Alfa Romeo’s future direction.

Conclusion

The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a crucial model for the brand, appealing to fleet customers and accounting for a significant portion of its sales. While it may not fully embody the Alfa Romeo spirit, it offers a balance between rationality and emotion. The Tonale PHEV’s impressive electric range and stylish design make it an attractive option for those looking for a compact SUV with eco-friendly credentials.

As we continue our long-term test, we will delve deeper into the Tonale’s performance, practicality, and overall ownership experience. Stay tuned for more updates on how well Alfa Romeo’s plug-in hybrid small SUV lives up to its fleet-friendly figures while retaining the brand’s signature stardust.