by Alfa Romeo has released a new teaser of its upcoming compact crossover, which will eventually replace the Tonale model. This vehicle was also known in North America as the rebadged Dodge Hornet before Stellantis discontinued its production in January after a four-year cycle.
Debut and Production
The Italian brand has confirmed that the still-unnamed model will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2027. It is currently unknown whether Stellantis plans to sell it in America. It is worth noting that Dodge’s recent product plan included a model called GLH (Goes Like Hell), which hinted at a crossover-like hatchback. This vehicle could be related to the one shown by Alfa, giving the design a second life on this side of the Atlantic.
Design and Positioning
The new Alfa Romeo was first shown during Stellantis’ Investor Day in May 2026, where a 3D model displayed a low, athletic silhouette and sharp styling lines. The latest teaser shows the vehicle from the rear, where broad shoulders, a heavily sloping rear window, and horizontal LED taillights stretching across the entire tail are noticeable.
The aggressive appearance indicates that the compact crossover will compete with the Cupra Formentor, Audi Q3 Sportback, and BMW X2. In the Alfa lineup, it will be positioned directly above the Junior model, which is currently the brand’s bestseller.
Platform and Powertrains
The company reports that the C-SUV was developed by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo in Turin and will be manufactured at the plant in Melfi, Italy. The launch timeline coincides with previous reports that Tonale production at the Pomigliano d’Arco plant will end in November 2027.
Emanuele Cappellano, Chief Operating Officer of Stellantis Enlarged Europe, said of the new Alfa Romeo: “The C-SUV embodies the true character and style of Alfa Romeo, and it is truly beautiful!”
The new model will be based on the STLA Medium platform and will feature “multi-energy powertrains,” including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full electric setups already offered in Stellantis models such as the Peugeot 3008, Citroen C5 Aircross, Opel Grandland, Jeep Compass, and DS No7.
Future Plans
Alfa Romeo is also developing a premium compact hatchback alongside the C-SUV. It is expected to arrive later as the spiritual successor to the 147 and Giulietta models on the new STLA One architecture.
This move signifies a strategic renewal of the Alfa Romeo lineup, emphasizing electrification and modern design. The use of the versatile STLA Medium platform will allow the brand to flexibly offer different engine types, adapting to market conditions. The potential connection to the Dodge GLH model also points to a possible return of Alfa Romeo to the North American market, which could be an important step for the brand’s global growth. The development of a compact hatchback, in turn, demonstrates Alfa Romeo’s ambition to revive its historic segment, combining heritage with innovation.
