Alfa Romeo has revealed its first mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV, the Tonale concept. Being Alfa Romeo, the company has made efforts to bring a bit of style to the class with a few nods to its history. Most obviously, there are the 21in telephone dial wheels, first worn by the iconic 1967-69 Alfa 33 Stradale. Then there’s the classic Alfa “Trilobo” of central Scudetto grille with a “moustache” opening either side, and the triple headlights to emulate those of the SZ and Brera. We reckon it’s the best-looking of the mid-sized SUV class. It’s thought that it will go on sale by early 2020.
Under the skin, the Tonale is based on the same platform as the current Jeep Renegade. There’s no confirmation of engine sizes or specifications but they’re likely to include the Firefly range used in the Fiat 500X, with the added electric motor hybrid element. The infotainment touch screen inside features an “E-mozione” button, for specific throttle settings, sharper braking and more direct steering response, altering the proportions of power delivered by the electric motor and the petrol engine.
The interior mixes aluminum, leather and Alcantara, and includes a 12.3-inch full digital cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen central head unit. And if you’re wondering about the name, it references the spectacular Tonale Pass, not far from the Stelvio Pass in the Alps.
Images courtesy of Alfa Romeo
