New Models Alfa Romeo Tonale: New Sportiness And Multi-Powertrain

From Daniel Killy/SP-X | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

Related Vendor

The traditional manufacturer has revised its SUV Tonale.

Alfa is offering the diesel in the Tonale again(Image: Alfa Romeo)
Alfa is offering the diesel in the Tonale again
(Image: Alfa Romeo)

The EU's imminent departure from the categorical ban on internal combustion engines for new cars in 2035 is prompting a shift in the industry. At Alfa Romeo, alongside Ferrari as a symbol of Italian sportiness and automotive lifestyle, this is reflected in the future use of Stellantis' STLA platforms, which allow for the production of various drivetrains. This means: yes to hybrid and electric options—and also an extension of the availability of the current diesel versions of the Giulia and Stelvio until the end of 2027.

When a new Alfa model is launched in Italy, it still garners attention—niche sales figures aside. This was also true for the updated Tonale during its drives through the pre-Christmas decorated towns around Lake Garda. A new Alfa, even if it isn't entirely new, still attracts more attention than its sales figures. For the 2026 Tonale, the term facelift fits perfectly. The face of the C-segment SUV is new—and full of retro reminiscences. For instance, the Scudetto, the grille, with its passe-partout of four ventilation slits, is reminiscent of the Giulia GTA.

Between Brilliance And Minor Weaknesses

And the license plate has once again—quite classically—moved under the grille. It all looks good, as the new Tonale impresses with good workmanship and a few Alfa traditions (red leather seats are optionally available again), garnering attention at crosswalks or curbs; on the roads, the Tonale will only be seen in January or February 2026. Only the rather vague, soft steering and delayed braking remind you that the Tonale is not a sports car but a sporty-to-drive SUV. However, this is more than sufficient for gracefully navigating the serpentine roads of Italy's mid-mountain ranges—because charm and style are constant companions.

The fact that Alfa had already sold 6,816 units in Germany by the end of November 2025—an increase of nearly 21 percent compared to the same period the previous year—fits well with the pre-Christmas setting in Italy, making it a delightful gift. Because 2025 was anything but easy. Alfa CEO Santo Ficili had to make it loud and clear: "Alfa Romeo is not for sale." Too many rumors had repeatedly suggested Stellantis' intentions to sell the brand to China.

Christine Schulze Tergeist, Managing Director Stellantis Premium Brands Germany, states clearly: “The automotive industry is operating in an environment of constant changes and dynamics. All manufacturers are rethinking their strategies to remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.”

Gallery
Gallery with 5 images

Quadrifoglio Comeback

For fans of classic Alfa driving culture, the Germany CEO has a Christmas surprise in store: "The sportiest models—the Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio—are making a comeback! Orders for these icons will reopen during 2026." The traditional combustion-engine sports variant, marked by the four-leaf clover, is expected to bring Alfa the necessary luck in the coming year. Luck that will be needed, as the new market conditions also demand flexibility.

Christine Schulze Tergeist: “The new requirements mean that the next generations of Giulia and Stelvio will be delayed as they remain in the development and hybridization phase. Therefore, we plan to continue offering the diesel variants of both models in Germany until 2027.”

—A Christmas Comeback: Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Return—The Future of Alfa: STLA Platform Leads the Charge—Classic Alfa Charm Meets Electric Innovation

Subscribe to the newsletter now

Don't Miss out on Our Best Content

By clicking on „Subscribe to Newsletter“ I agree to the processing and use of my data according to the consent form (please expand for details) and accept the Terms of Use. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy. The consent declaration relates, among other things, to the sending of editorial newsletters by email and to data matching for marketing purposes with selected advertising partners (e.g., LinkedIn, Google, Meta)

Unfold for details of your consent