Tamer than its brand-mates, it has a different mission in life.
Unique to Alfa is the DNA mode selector. D signals Dynamic , N stands for Natural , and A denotes Advanced Efficiency . Why is there no Individual setting to let you compile your favorite combination of throttle response, shift action, damper control, and steering feel?
We went apex chasing through the foothills of Monte Mottac, gave it stick on the lightly trafficked A26 autostrada heading for Genoa, and fought our way clench fisted through Milan's rush-hour maze. The Tonale feels tight and well made, it has strong Brembo brakes that are a joy to modulate, and the ride is sufficiently compliant on all but the most neglected surfaces. The cabin accommodates four in comfort, but the cargo hold is compromised by the bulky electric drivetrain components.
Downsides? Yep, there are a few of those, too. The steering is rather vague, light, and woolly. There's too much play around the straight-ahead position, and the action doesn't get any keener as you wind on more lock. The Tonale is certainly not under-tired, but it feels oddly over-damped and under-sprung on bumpy terrain where recurrent floating, heaving, rolling, and pitching motions disturb the uninspiring handling.
Prices range from $44,590 for the Sprint to $49,090 for the Veloce, which features, among other goodies, the huge paddle shifters, Alcantara-trimmed seats, and adaptive dampers. A sunroof, a Harman/Kardon sound system, 20-inch wheels, a surround-view camera, and the more advanced driver assists cost extra, so we're talking $50K-plus for a fully loaded Tonale. Not surprisingly, Alfa expects nine out of 10 cars to be leased at still-to-be-disclosed but allegedly highly favorable rates.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale First Drive: An electrifying Italian alternative - AutoblogThe 2024 Tonale is Alfa Romeo's first electrified offering. This fun-to-drive 285-horsepower plug-in hybrid turns the baby crossover segment on its ear.
Read more »
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53: Today's Car NewsThe U.S.-bound Ranger, the next AMG E 53, and Alpine's first EV all made headlines today.
Read more »
The Alfa Romeo Tonale Makes Me Want MoreThe Alfa Romeo Tonale makes me want more.
Read more »
Man shot, then run over at Canoga Park gas stationDetectives later found an Alfa Romeo SUV blocks away with bullet holes in the windshield.
Read more »
Alpine A290 Beta previews French brand's first EV due in 2024Alpine has previewed the first of multiple EVs in the works at the French performance marque.
Read more »
2024 Ford Ranger debuts for $34,160, Ranger Raptor costs $56,960The 2024 Ford Ranger gets a mini F-150 look, in combination with new engines and an off-road Raptor model.
Read more »