The Perfect Blend: Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.3 280 PHEV SUV Review

Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.3 280 PHEV Review

The Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.3 280 PHEV is a symphony of engineering and design, blending the heart of a sports car with the practicality of a hybrid. The 275 bhp 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbo hybrid AWD system is a marvel, propelling the vehicle from 0-62 mph in a swift 6.2 seconds. The front axle is powered by the robust engine, while the electric motor brings life to the rear wheels, offering an effective range of 30-40 miles on electric power alone, thanks to the 15.5 kWh battery. The transition between internal combustion and electric power is as smooth as silk, with the engine's hum fading into serene silence.

Alfa Romeo's claim of 217 mpg is optimistic, yet it's a figure that speaks to the vehicle's efficiency in the right conditions. Real-world figures may vary, but the high 30s are still commendable for a vehicle of this caliber. Inside, the Tonale Veloce is a testament to luxury accessible at a mid-range price point. The interior design borrows generously from Ferrari, exuding a sense of opulence that rivals more expensive models. The rocket-shaped air vents, the tactile pleasure of the short gear stick wrapped in classic leather, and the steering wheel's ergonomic design with controls at your fingertips all contribute to a driving experience that is both exhilarating and comfortable.

The cabin's aesthetic is a tapestry of textures and hues, from the sleek black leather with vibrant red stitching to the contrasting matte and glossy finishes. The seats are an amalgamation of soft velvet and lustrous leather, offering both visual and tactile satisfaction. While the infotainment screen sticks out like an afterthought, but strangely enough it looks good and is easily visible and intuitive to use. Wireless charging now comes as standard which is a must.

The volume button is a small but notable touch, crafted as a gorgeous knurled metal cylinder that is a pleasure to spin.

The spacious rear seating is a boon, although the minimal window line may not be to everyone's taste. Yet, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise thoughtfully designed vehicle. The Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.3 280 PHEV is a vehicle that doesn't just move you; it moves with you, adapting to your needs and exceeding expectations with every mile. It's a car not just built for the road, but for the journey and the joy that comes with it.

While the Tonale's acceleration may not set the world on fire, its performance at cruising speed are nothing short of impressive. It may not outpace every competitor at a traffic light sprint, but once it hits its stride, the Tonale can navigate corners and execute turns with remarkable precision. The road handling is truly exceptional, embodying the essence of a hot hatch SUV.

The vehicle's front fascia is a work of art, featuring triple wave-shaped lights that resemble loosely sketched Ws. It's a stunning design, especially in the vibrant Montreal Green, which stands out even in the sprawling expanse of an airport parking lot. The rear design continues this artistic theme, emanating from the iconic Alfa badge in a display of elegance and style. Plus the five-circle alloys are stunning, and the 400-litre boot offers ample space for a family holiday.

Size-wise, the Tonale is the epitome of 'Golidlocks.' It's compact enough to navigate the twists and turns of country roads with the agility of a hatchback, yet it still maintains the commanding presence of an SUV. The interior is a masterclass in space efficiency, offering ample room without any sense of excess. It's a finely tuned balance that creates an illusion of even more space.

The Tonale strikes a perfect equilibrium in all aspects.

In normal mode, the acceleration is sluggish, but switch to sport mode and the Tonale's true Alfa Romeo spirit shines through. The engine emits a delightful growl that's sure to send a shiver of excitement down your spine, yet it's subtle enough not to disturb the peace. The revs hang on just a bit longer, making for an exhilarating experience when overtaking.  I did find the gearbox somewhat slow to change up in Normal mode though.

Steering is responsive in both modes, but it's in Dynamic mode where it truly excels, providing feedback that's nearly on par with a Ferrari. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, disabling the stability control allows for some spirited rear-wheel antics, particularly around roundabouts.

Surprisingly, the Alfa Romeo Tonale shares its 'SCCS' platform with the Jeep Compass, although Alfa Romeo has meticulously tuned everything to match their distinct style and performance standards. The Veloce features an all-independent suspension system, with MacPherson struts at the front and a simplified pseudo-multi-link axle at the rear. This includes selectable ‘dual stage’ adaptive dampers for enhanced performance.

The 19-inch wheels of the Veloce trim ensure a solid connection with the road, complemented by an adaptive suspension system that's pure Alfa Romeo. It maintains an uncanny level of composure, keeping the car astonishingly flat through corners.

The Veloce trim doesn't just add paddle shifters; it enhances the entire driving experience with these and other thoughtful additions, like the larger wheels, that elevate the Tonale's performance and aesthetic appeal. It's a vehicle that doesn't just meet expectations—it surpasses them, redefining what a rational sized SUV can be.

Emergency lane support is provided plus adaptive speed cruise control but it's not quite up to level 2 autonomous driving.

The Alfa Romeo Tonale redefines the essence of equilibrium in automotive design, harmonising the robust appeal of an SUV with the agile grace of a hatchback. Its braking system is a marvel of engineering, employing Alfa's advanced electronic control to ensure smooth, linear stopping power at any velocity. This translates to a real-world ease of operation and formidable effectiveness that instills confidence in every journey.

While it may not boast the swiftest acceleration, the Tonale compensates with a charm and personality that swiftly captures the heart. It masterfully blends sumptuous comfort, a meticulously crafted interior, and spirited performance to forge a connection that feels deeply personal in mere days. The Tonale's allure is its charming character: it stands tall with the stature of an SUV, envelops you with the serenity of a saloon, and delights with the nimble handling of a hatchback.

The Tonale's plug-in hybrid capability is a nod to modern efficiency, allowing for significant savings on routine commutes while eliminating range anxiety on extended voyages. It's a seamless fusion of convenience and economy, offering impressive mileage without the fret of frequent stops to recharge.

Visually, the Tonale surpasses its nearest rivals with a design that's quintessentially Alfa Romeo, enhanced by a metallic green hue that turns heads with its fiery vibrance. It's a visual feast that doesn't skimp on the iconic Alfa Romeo driving experience. It was also awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, so you can have fun with confidence.

In every aspect, the Tonale is crafted with a philosophy of balance. It's an SUV that's sensibly sized, a hatchback that generously expands on interior space. It delivers a performance that's exhilarating yet comfortable, wrapped in a sleek, race-inspired exterior that houses a lavish interior. This design will resonate with those who seek the thrill of sporty driving but require the practicality of a family vehicle. The Alfa Romeo Tonale emerges as an SUV that not only promises enjoyment behind the wheel but also garners the prestige of the Alfa Romeo brand in a package that's both versatile and economically sound. It stands as a formidable contender for the title of the premier small hybrid AWD SUV in today's market.

In short, this is a ideal opportunity to join the illustrious family of Alfa Romeo owners with the Tonale Veloce as your very first Alfa Romeo.