Alfa Romeo Tonale

Car and Driver's review of the Alfa Romeo Tonale emphasizes its standout Italian styling and engaging handling as the primary reasons to consider this compact SUV. The plug-in hybrid version offers an impressive all-electric range of around 30 miles, which is useful for daily commutes, and the gasoline-only Tonale Sprint model still feels lively thanks to a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. However, the review criticizes the interior's use of hard plastics and lower-quality materials compared to rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, noting that the cabin doesn't match the car's athletic personality. The infotainment system is described as laggy and unintuitive, with a small touchscreen that requires too many steps for simple tasks. Rear passenger space is also tight, especially headroom. The ride is firm but composed, and the steering is quick and communicative, which is a hallmark of Alfa Romeo. On the whole, Car and Driver concludes that the Tonale is a charming and distinct choice in a crowded segment, but it falls short of the class leaders in practicality and refinement, earning a 7/10 overall score which translates to roughly 3.5 stars in our scale. It's a vehicle that prioritizes emotional appeal over rational excellence, making it a rewarding pick for enthusiasts who value character over everyday usability.

Motor Trend's first drive review of the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale focuses heavily on the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which is the headline feature for the American market. The 285-hp PHEV combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor, delivering 30 miles of EPA-estimated EV range. The testers praise the seamless transition between electric and gasoline power in most situations, but they note a significant drawback: when the battery depletes, the small-displacement engine becomes noisy and strained, especially under acceleration, creating an unpleasant drone. The handling, however, is genuinely fun—the Tonale feels agile and eager in corners, with nicely weighted steering and good body control. Styling is a major selling point, with distinctive LED lighting signatures and an attractive 20-inch wheel design. The interior receives mixed reactions: the front seats are comfortable, but rear headroom is compromised by the sloping roofline, and cargo space is below average. The infotainment system is also criticized for slow response times and a confusing menu structure. Motor Trend rates the Tonale overall as a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV that's let down by its noisy PHEV powertrain and subpar interior packaging, earning a score of 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Autocar's UK-based review of the Alfa Romeo Tonale takes a slightly more favorable view, rating it 4 out of 5 stars. The reviewer notes that the Tonale is exactly what buyers expect from an Alfa—a beautifully styled, dynamically rewarding compact SUV that brings flair to the premium segment. The driving experience is a highlight: the car rides with a blend of comfort and control that makes it feel refined on motorways yet agile on B-roads, and the steering is full of feel and precision. In the UK, the Tonale is offered with a petrol engine and a plug-in hybrid option, both of which are praised for their smooth power delivery. The interior is where Autocar is less effusive; while the design is attractive, the quality of some materials falls short of Audi and BMW rivals, and the tech setup is not as intuitive as competitors' systems. The infotainment screen is slow at times, and physical climate controls are missing, which can be frustrating. However, Autocar acknowledges that the Tonale's character and charm go a long way to compensate for these flaws. With a generous standard equipment list and a competitive price in the UK market, the Tonale is recommended as a stylish and enjoyable alternative to more mainstream choices. It's not the most practical or efficient option, but for those who want to drive something special every day, it's a compelling pick.

MotorTrend's evaluation of the Alfa Romeo Tonale emphasizes its athletic road manners and distinctive Mediterranean flair. The review notes that the Tonale's chassis tuning delivers a firm but responsive ride, with responsive steering that makes it genuinely fun to drive on twisty roads. The interior features a modern design with available contrasting stitching and a large touchscreen, but some lower plastics feel cheap for the price. The plug-in hybrid Q4 version offers a useful electric-only range, but the base engine's real-world fuel economy disappoints. MotorTrend also points out that the rear seat space and trunk volume are tight compared to competitors. Despite these shortcomings, the SUV's character and driving pleasure give it a strong appeal for enthusiasts. The review scores the Tonale high for its handling and unique styling while acknowledging that it is a lifestyle choice rather than a family-hauling champion. Overall, MotorTrend gives it a 4 out of 5.

Edmunds' expert review of the Alfa Romeo Tonale focuses on its dual nature as both a handsome urban runabout and a decent performer. The testers appreciate the Tonale's quick acceleration from the turbo engine and the firm brake pedal, which aids confidence. The cabin is praised for its good visibility and supportive front seats, though the back seat is cramped for taller passengers. Edmunds notes that the infotainment system is straightforward once you learn the menu structure, but the voice control is subpar. Fuel economy ratings are average at best, especially for the base engine. The review also mentions that the Tonale's warranty is competitive, but the resale value is uncertain given Alfa Romeo's brand history. However, the undeniable style and fun-to-drive nature help offset these drawbacks. Edmunds concludes that while it's not the most practical or efficient choice, it's a compelling option for buyers who value emotional appeal in a small SUV. They give it a 4 out of 5 rating.