2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale Arrives with PHEV, 2.0T Powertrains
The 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale is finally here. We first saw the Tonale as a concept back in 2019, but extra development for its gas-electric drivetrain and the chip shortage in 2021 delayed its debut. Now Alfa Romeo has finally presented the production version of its second SUV, which slots in below the Stelvio and becomes the first Alfa Romeo to feature a plug-in-hybrid powertrain.
The 2023 Tonale will be offered with two powertrains. The headlining act is the new plug-in-hybrid setup, which pairs a 180-horsepower turbocharged 1.3-liter inline-four powering the front wheels with a 121-hp electric motor mounted on the rear axle. The system sends a combined output of 272 horsepower to all four wheels, and the electric motor draws its juice from a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. The Tonale PHEV uses a six-speed automatic transmission and Alfa Romeo promises over 30 miles of electric driving range.
The Tonale PHEV will feature three driving modes: Natural, which blends the engine and electric motor for everyday driving; Advanced Efficiency, meant for pure electric travel; and Dynamic, for maximum performance from both the engine and e-motor.
Along with the plug-in model, Tonale buyers will be able to choose a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces a healthy 256 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The nonhybrid Tonale will also come standard with all-wheel drive.
Alfa Romeo promises that the Tonale will have the athletic driving dynamics that we’ve come to expect from the brand. Along with a quick 13.6:1 steering ratio, the Tonale features an independent suspension front and rear with optional adaptive dampers that can be set to Comfort or Sport.
Stylistically, the Tonale stays true to the concept, with thin headlights featuring three U-shaped LED elements framing the traditional Alfa Romeo grille. The rear features a trendy full-width taillight that echoes the three-piece lightning motif from the front. The Tonale measures 178.3 inches long, making it a few inches longer than a BMW X1 but still over six inches shorter than an X3.