Alfa Romeo has unveiled what will eventually become
its first-ever compact SUV at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. Dubbed ‘Tonale’, the
concept utilizes a hybrid system and is named after a
mountain pass in Northern Italy. The Tonale Concept is inspired by
the “beauty and nuances associated with human forms, and the organic movement
of light resulted by pure lines and volumes.” In other words, you might call it
stylish.
The front end features Alfa Romeo’s signature
“Trilobo” light graphic as well as the distinctive “Scudetto” grille. The rear
meanwhile comes with an enveloping window design, complemented by the suspended
wing and a special light graphic that’s said to be reminiscent of a hand-written
signature, rather than a more traditional optical lighting element. As for the wheels, they measure
21-inches in diameter and are said to create an “honest and impactful execution
of the circular theme”.
Step inside the Tonale Concept and you’ll find a driver
oriented layout, surrounded by rich materials such as aluminum, leather and
Alcantara. Features include translucent backlit panels, the DNA drive mode
selector, a 12.3-inch fully digital cluster, plus a 10.25-inch touchscreen
central head unit.
The infotainment system has two new functions in
‘Alfista’ and ‘Paddock’ – where the former is described as an immersive Alfa
Romeo Lifestyle experience, providing users with a fully connected interface
with select Alfa Romeo clubs and Community events, like gatherings, drives and
meets. The in-vehicle app also allows the driver access to live news and
updates regarding Alfa Romeo, while providing the opportunity to win VIP access
to special events.
The ‘Paddock’ function on the other hand is all
about purchasing the latest interior and exterior performance upgrades and
equipment, letting you scroll through the latest offerings of Alfa Romeo
merchandise and apparel.
Alfa avoided giving out specific technical details,
but it said the concept is motivated by a hybrid engine.We suspect that it’s a
variant of the plug-in hybrid unit introduced in the Jeep Renegade today, while
the SUV is likely based on a modified version of Fiat Chrysler’s front-wheel
drive compact platform, instead of a shorter version of the rear-drive Giulia
and Stelvio architecture.
In the Tonale, Alfa Romeo’s drive modes now
implement specific energy management functions. Dynamic mode for example
evolves into ‘Dual Power’ and offers the maximum output from the two engines –
the electric and ICE units.
By pushing the E-mozione button on the touchscreen
you can then fiddle with specific throttle settings, make the brakes sharper
and gain a more direct steering response. Then there’s Natural mode, which is
all about maintaining the best optimization between electrical and internal
combustion engines, while the Advance E mode handles performance while
operating just under battery power.
