What’s New at Koto?,Test Drives & Videos | Alfa Romeo Tonale : Italian passion on south african roads
When Italian elegance meets SUV pragmatism, something special takes shape. The freshly restyled Alfa Romeo Tonale doesn't just turn heads, it commands presence on every Johannesburg boulevard and Cape coastal road.
Built for every journey
[gallery link="file" columns="2" size="full" ids="16696,16695,16688,16693"]
South African drivers demand vehicles capable of handling both urban chaos and weekend getaways. The Tonale responds precisely to this dual requirement.
The revised 1.5-litre hybrid engine now develops 175 horsepower, offering sufficient power to overtake slower vehicles on the N1. For those seeking more temperament, the plug-in hybrid variant delivers 270 horses, enough vigour to make highway merges genuinely thrilling rather than anxiety-inducing.
What distinguishes this Italian is its balance between sportiness and everyday use. The suspension setup leans towards firmness, limiting body roll in corners without punishing passengers on Gauteng's potholed stretches. You get that connected-to-the-road sensation Alfa Romeo promises, without sacrificing your spine.
[idcarversion=994]
[idcarversion=995]
Space that adapts to your life
[gallery link="file" columns="2" size="full" ids="16687,16692,16691,16701"]
Inside, the Tonale proves surprisingly welcoming for a compact SUV. The rear bench comfortably accommodates two adults, with sufficient space for trips to the Drakensberg or Garden Route. Three people can sit for shorter journeys, though shoulder space becomes limited.
Boot capacity reaches 500 litres with seats upright sufficient for weekly Woolworths runs or loading beach equipment for a Durban weekend. Fold down the 60/40 split rear seats, and that volume expands considerably, swallowing everything from sporting equipment to flat-pack furniture.
Practical touches enhance daily convenience. Door pockets accommodate proper water bottles, not just small cans. The centre console storage houses phones, wallets and sunglasses without creating clutter. Compartments scattered throughout the cabin mean less mess and more organisation essential when juggling modern life's endless accessories.
[idcarversion=994]
[idcarversion=995]
Where comfort meets connectivity
Stepping into the restyled Tonale, you immediately notice Alfa Romeo has addressed previous criticism. The cabin now offers vibrant leather upholstery in red or black, plus striking black-and-white Alcantara combinations. These aren't just aesthetic improvements—the materials provide a genuinely premium feel and enhance the daily driving experience.
The 12.3-inch digital instrument screen presents information clearly, with customisable configurations for different driving modes. The 10.25-inch touchscreen responds promptly to commands and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto essential for navigation and music streaming on South African roads where mobile coverage varies.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9Kv8cEIbHY[/embed]
Advanced driver assistance systems reach Level 2 autonomy. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring enhance safety during family journeys. These features reduce fatigue on long trips whilst adding protection in our sometimes chaotic traffic conditions.
The My Alfa Connect mobile app brings modern convenience, allowing you to check vehicle status, lock doors remotely and view trip data from your smartphone. Useful features for security-conscious South African owners.
In Summary
Alfa Romeo gives the Tonale a sharper look, improved materials and technology that finally meets premium expectations. It won't suit everyone, those prioritising maximum practicality over driving character may prefer German alternatives. But for drivers who appreciate Italian style, engaging dynamics and genuine personality in their daily transport, the Tonale now presents a compelling case.
[idcarversion=994]
[idcarversion=995]
FAQ
What is the fuel consumption of the Alfa Romeo Tonale in South African driving conditions?
The 1.5-litre hybrid typically achieves around 5.5 to 6.5 litres per 100km in mixed driving, though city traffic and aggressive driving can increase consumption. The plug-in hybrid offers electric-only range for short commutes, significantly reducing fuel costs if you charge regularly at home.
How does the Tonale handle South African road conditions and potholes?
The Tonale's raised ground clearance and well-calibrated suspension handle typical road imperfections properly. While it's sport-focused rather than off-road capable, it manages gravel roads and damaged surfaces better than low-slung saloons. The 18 or 19-inch wheels require care around severe potholes to avoid rim damage.
How does the Tonale compare to competitors like the BMW X1 or Mercedes GLA?
The Tonale emphasises driving engagement and Italian design rather than ultimate practicality. It's slightly more compact than the X1 but offers more character. German rivals provide more conservative styling, larger dealer networks and higher resale values, but the Alfa delivers superior style and driving pleasure for enthusiasts.
