Introducing the 2024 Tonale: A Disappointing Effort from Alfa Romeo
When Alfa Romeo unveiled the 2024 Tonale, they claimed to be targeting a broader demographic, including women. As a woman and a car enthusiast, I was excited to see their efforts to appeal to a female audience. However, after a week-long test drive, I was left feeling disappointed and underwhelmed.
Alfa Romeo had conducted extensive demographic research and claimed to have designed the Tonale with women in mind. But as I drove the SUV, I couldn’t help but question their understanding of what women actually want in a car.
The Tonale is Alfa Romeo’s first foray into the subcompact SUV market, specifically catering to women. However, the vehicle failed to impress me with its design and features.
2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale: What You Need to Know
The Tonale is a plug-in hybrid subcompact SUV based on Stellantis’ Small Wide 4×4 LWB platform. It shares many design elements with the Dodge Hornet. The model I test drove was equipped with a 1.3-liter I4 turbo engine that produced a combined output of 285 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. With its PHEV capability, the Tonale offers an all-electric range of around 30 miles before switching to the gas-powered engine.
For my test drive, I had access to the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce eAWD model with additional options. These options included a stylish gray paint color ($660), the customer preferred package with a Harmon-Kardon sound system, ventilated front seats, and a driver seat memory function ($2,500), the active assist advanced package with surround-view cameras, park assist features, and active driving assist systems ($2,000), a power moonroof ($1,200), and 20-inch five-hole wheels ($2,000). The base model starts at $47,495, but with the added features and a $1,595 destination fee, the Tonale I test drove came in at around $57,450.
Competition for the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
The Tonale competes in two tiers. As it shares a platform with the Jeep Compass and Dodge Hornet, it can be compared to those vehicles. Additionally, as a luxury subcompact SUV, the Tonale competes with models like the Volvo XC40, BMW X1 and X2, and the Mercedes-Benz GLB class.
Driving Impressions
With the Tonale marketed as a vehicle designed for women, I tested it in various “woman-type” scenarios. Throughout the week, I used it for errands, such as picking up prescriptions and groceries, as well as for daily commuting in my small Texas town. Additionally, I took it on a 500-mile road trip to Fort Worth to attend a NASCAR Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway. This allowed me to experience both city and highway driving conditions.
I must mention that the weather during the road trip was scorching, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees and a real-feel temperature close to 110 degrees. This extreme heat played a significant role in my overall experience.
What I Liked About the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
The Tonale undeniably looks great. Its unique design, including the rotary-phone rims and toothy grille, sets it apart from other SUVs on the road. This attention to aesthetics adds a touch of class to the driving experience.
The powertrain of the Tonale also impressed me. The seamless integration of the electric motor allowed for smooth transitions between EV mode and hybrid mode. The 30-mile electric range was more than enough for my daily errands, and the ability to regenerate battery power while on the highway was a welcome feature. Additionally, the option to schedule battery charging based on specific days and times added convenience.
From a comfort standpoint, the Tonale exceeded my expectations. As a shorter driver, I often struggle with finding a comfortable seating position in crossover vehicles. However, the Tonale’s cockpit was designed with a smaller frame in mind. I had no trouble adjusting the seat, reaching the pedals, and operating the controls. Even during the long road trip, I didn’t experience any discomfort or fatigue in the driver’s seat.
Areas for Improvement on the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
Unfortunately, the Tonale fell short in terms of overall comfort. The excessive tire, road, and wind noise became overwhelming as I accelerated on the highway. It was difficult to hold a conversation without shouting, and road trip enjoyment was diminished by the constant noise. Furthermore, the ride itself was rough and uncomfortable. Even on poorly maintained roads, I expect a luxury vehicle like the Tonale to provide a smoother driving experience.
Other comfort issues included poorly positioned paddle shifters and steering wheel stalks, making them difficult to reach and use. The steering wheel controls also had a tendency to time out quickly, and the small icons on the infotainment screen were challenging to navigate while driving. Additionally, the thick A-pillars and limited rear visibility made maneuvering and lane changes more challenging, even with a passenger assisting.
One major concern was the Tonale’s tendency to run hot. Within the first 30 minutes of my drive, I noticed a worrying increase in engine temperature. While I managed to keep the car on the road without issues, the fact that it struggled with heat in a luxury vehicle was disappointing and concerning.
Ultimately, the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale failed to meet my expectations. Despite Alfa Romeo’s claims of targeting women, the vehicle didn’t fulfill the needs and desires of its intended audience. While it had some positive aspects, such as its stylish design and smooth powertrain, the Tonale’s drawbacks in comfort, noise, and overheating were significant enough for me to look elsewhere in the subcompact SUV market.
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