The italian charm, Alfa Romeo Tonale

Text: Mia Litström

Alfa Romeo is expanding its model range with a new model called Tonale. A compact SUV in medium size and according to the company it is supposed to be their most technically advanced model they have ever produced. With the new Tonale it's not just the starting shot for their electrification but they are also introducing NFT (non-fungible proof) Alfa Romeo themselves say they are first among car manufacturers to introduce this which links a digital NFT certificate to the car.

Why one might wonder? But according to the company it should be advantageous if the car is to be sold on. Through blockchain technology a digital proof can be established. It stores vehicle data which can thus show how the car has been maintained during its life cycle. All this happens only with the customer's consent.

Tonale is also the first model Alfa Romeo electrifies with mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Where the latter is the one that has the highest power and delivers 275 hp. In addition it has four-wheel drive thanks to an electric motor at the rear axle. 0-100 km/h takes a fast 6,2 seconds. The range on electric drive is 60 km but depending on driving style the range can be extended to 80 km according to Alfa Romeo. And as with most new models being launched it's automatic transmission that applies, no manual transmission will be offered.

Last year's sales for Alfa Romeo have been tough and the premiere of Tonale has taken time but finally it's here. The company hopes a lot for the compact SUV format and that they can now also offer electrified drivetrains that have the possibility of four-wheel drive they see as very positive. The typical Alfa look with a sharp attitude in the front's design gives a lovely character which is largely thanks to the shape of the headlights and in addition they have LED Matrix technology. The five-spoke rims are also a detail that stands out in a lovely way in traditional Alfa Romeo style.

But it's not just the exterior of the car that is delicious with the new Tonale, interior-wise it has a lot to offer. There is a large screen for the infotainment system at 22,5 ” and updates happen via over-the-air. The digital instrumentation's shape and appearance is said to have gotten influences from the classic Alfa Romeo. Tonale is compact with a delicious sporty character and it will be really exciting to see if this model will take off. It is built in their factory in Pomigliano d´Arco which is called Giambattista Vico in which has been modernized. And precisely like the sibling model Stelvio the name Tonale comes from a mountain pass.

Launch in Sweden happens this fall.