Alfa Romeo is breaking into the electric car world at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show with the new Tonale mid-size SUV concept – the first plug-in hybrid and the first mid-size utility vehicle from the Italian marque.

The design of the Tonale is an expression that looks fondly into the future. Its compact dimensions embody unique Italian design and the unmistakable Alfa Romeo style, showcasing the future evolution of the brand.

Its design recalls a number of time-honoured design elements that are synonymous with the rich history of the brand, with an execution that excites a modern approach to the new Alfa Romeo anatomy. An element that echoes the tradition of the Alfa Romeo DNA is the 21-inch telephone dial wheels with exclusive Pirelli tyres. The lineage of the telephone dial wheels dates back to the 1960’s, worn proudly by the iconic 33 Stradale.

The bold, elegant volumes of the body make reference to a seemingly distant past, recalling the stylish qualities of the Duetto and the Disco Volante Spider, while the Tonale’s “Linea GT” interprets the confidence and stance found on the beloved GT Junior. The front end sports the Alfa Romeo signature “Trilobo” and the distinctive “Scudetto” grille that serves as the central point of strength, driving the speed and fluidity that moves throughout the Tonale.

Completing the front end is the “3 plus 3” headlights that evoke the proud gaze reflective of the SZ and Brera. The rear of the Tonale is elegantly defined by an enveloping window volume, complemented by the suspended wing that enhances the continuity between the transparent roof and the rear window itself.

The interior of the Tonale is very driver oriented, but not egoistic, as the layout is designed comfortably for four passengers. There is a contrast of rich materials, such as the cold solidity of aluminum combined with the soft and welcoming warmth of the leather and Alcantara. Inside there are translucent backlit panels, such as the central tunnel, providing the perfect location for the Alfa Romeo DNA drive mode selector.

The Tonale concept vehicle is equipped with the highest standards of technology to ensure a connected, comfortable and dynamic user experience, while keeping the pleasure of a sporty drive at the forefront. The driver’s attention will remain on the road, with the peripheral focus on a 12.3-inch full digital cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen central head unit.

The Tonale marks the debut of the brand in the mid-size utility vehicle segment and does so in line with the characteristics that have always identified each Alfa Romeo model. The goal is to deliver the best driving dynamics in the segment and to apply electrification in perfect Alfa Romeo style.

The electrification of Alfa Romeo comes at the service of sportiness and emphasises the famous “Mechanics of Emotions” mission of the brand. For this reason, it has no need to express itself through signatures or decided livery, but just with small details such as the Alfa logo in hybrid optics, a small yet definitive detail that enhances the Tonale.

The rear electric engine opens the way to new technological solutions that offer enhanced driving dynamics, to maximise the pleasure of sporty driving. The evolution is also evident in the drive modes managed by Alfa D.N.A. From the beginning on Giulietta, Mito and 4C, and through the development of Giulia and Stelvio, it has reached the Tonale and now implements specific energy management functions.

With Tonale, the “Dynamic” mode evolves into “Dual Power” and guarantees the maximum output from the two engines. The infotainment touch screen features an E-mozione button, which offers specific throttle settings, sharper braking and more direct steering response. “Natural” mode continues to maintain the best performance optimisation, and the compromise between using electric and internal combustion engines is managed automatically.

This translates into everyday energy and fuel savings, but not at the detriment of performance. The “Advance Efficiency” mode becomes “Advance E” for performance in full electric mode. So, in line with the principles of the brand, the plug-in hybrid propulsion enhances the beauty, sporty and dynamic driving characteristics of each Alfa Romeo model, taking them to a new level. In Tonale, electrification embraces performance and represents a new way to achieve high performance and outstanding driving fun.