Alfa Romeo Tonale 2022: First Plug-in Hybrid SUV

For the first time in its history, Alfa Romeo will offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain, debuting on its new SUV Tonale.

Alfa Romeo epitomizes tradition, whether in terms of style or engines. True to its essence with the V6 in a Giulia GTA or the four-cylinder in the Stelvio, the marque with the biscione must move into the 21st century.

Design No Surprise, and NFTs

The Italian manufacturer revealed on February 8 its second SUV, following the Stelvio introduced in 2017. Slightly smaller by 16 cm, with a length of 4.53 meters (width of 1.84 m and height of 1.60 m), it is comparable to the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

The style is quite predictable, with 95% of the lines carried over from the concept shown in 2019. The signature features include the triangular grille, classic curves, and three-projector headlights. The interior is in line with the brand’s traditional sporty ethos. The three-spoke Alfa Romeo steering wheel is wrapped in stitched leather, round air vents, all complemented by a large 10.25-inch central touchscreen with remote update capabilities.

Unique to each Tonale, a digital NFT certificate will be issued, containing data such as maintenance records.

Plug-in Hybrid for the Alfa Romeo Tonale

The gasoline lineup of the transalpine SUV will be entirely hybrid, in addition to the traditional 1.6-liter 130 hp diesel engine. And technically, what can be called hybrid includes “mild hybrid” or 48V low-power electric systems.

In this type of hybrid, the Tonale offers the 1.5-liter “Hybrid VGT” four-cylinder engine with power options of 130 and 160 hp, combined with a 15 kW (20 hp) electric motor and 55 Nm torque. According to Alfa Romeo, this system provides “electric starting and low-speed driving, as well as during parking maneuvers and at cruising speed.”

But the real innovation, it’s the plug-in hybrid debuting within the brand. The “Q4” variant features all-wheel drive, with a 1.3-liter MultiAir gasoline engine powering the front axle and the electric motor the rear. With 275 horsepower, it offers substantial power and integrates a 15.5 kWh battery. This should allow a range of 60 km per charge. Charging, specifically, takes 2 hours and 30 minutes at a maximum power of 7.4 kW.

The Alfa Romeo Tonale has not yet announced fuel consumption figures or prices (estimated at 50,000 euros). Sales will begin in April, followed by production in Italy at Pomigliano.

Also read: Range Rover: when the plug-in hybrid turns absurd