by Market Needs and Model Update
Buyers avoided the Alfa Romeo Tonale like a hornet’s nest, and sales in the US fell by 23%. To change this trend, the company introduced an updated crossover.
Exterior Changes
The updated model looks much more expressive thanks to a new front end with a concave scudetto grille, inspired by the 33 Stradale model. It includes horizontal lines and a black frame.
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In addition, a more aggressive bumper and a shorter front overhang have appeared. Alfa Romeo has also widened the front and rear track, updated the wheel design, and the emblem. Buyers will have access to three new colors – Rosso Brera, Verde Monza, and Giallo Ocra – as well as an optional contrasting black roof.
Interior Updates
The interior remains almost unchanged, but Alfa Romeo mentioned “improved materials, colors, and finishes.” Among the changes is new contrasting stitching on the dashboard, door panels, and armrests. For the first time, customers will be able to order a red leather interior.
The European PR team for Alfa Romeo also mentioned a redesigned center console and a new rotary gear selector. These changes will likely also be available in the American version of the crossover.
Powertrain for the USA
In the United States, the Tonale will be equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system.
Interestingly, Alfa Romeo appears to have abandoned the plug-in hybrid powertrain in America. It allowed the model to develop a combined 285 hp and travel 33 miles on electricity alone.
Updated Trim Lineup
In addition to simplifying the powertrain choices, Alfa Romeo has reduced the number of trim levels to three. The base Tonale Sprint features LED lighting, glossy black accents, and 18-inch wheels. These are complemented by aluminum pedals and fabric seats with contrasting stitching and the Biscione logo on the backrests.
The mid-level Veloce trim is more luxurious, as it features a dual-mode suspension and larger 19-inch wheels, which are paired with red Brembo brake calipers. Buyers will also find a hands-free power liftgate and perforated leather seats with ventilation.
Finally, a new Sport Speciale version has appeared. It has a unique exterior with silver accents and three-spoke 20-inch wheels that hide glossy black Brembo brake calipers. Buyers will also get an exclusive interior with black-pearl perforated Alcantara seats and a dashboard trimmed in black Alcantara.
The updated 2026 Alfa Romeo Tonale will arrive in American dealerships late this year, with additional details to be announced closer to the start of sales.
Updated Engines for Europe
The European model largely mirrors the American one but offers significantly more powertrain options, which have been “updated to the Euro 6E-bis standard.”
The selection includes a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid producing 173 hp, which is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive. Customers can also get a 1.6-liter diesel producing 128 hp, which comes with a six-speed DCT and front-wheel drive.
The plug-in hybrid remains in Europe and will be offered with outputs of 187 hp and 266 hp.
The difference in available powertrains between markets may be due to variations in environmental regulations and demand. In Europe, where transport electrification is a priority, plug-in hybrids remain popular, while in the US, preference might be given to traditional engines due to infrastructure specifics. The design updates and reduction in trim levels indicate Alfa Romeo’s attempt to make the model more attractive and understandable to buyers, which could positively impact sales after their significant decline.
