2023 New Alfa Romeo Tonale hybrid: Rival Porsche Macan

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5 thg 5, 2022

48V HYBRID VGT: THE MOST IN PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY

The state-of-the-art electrical propulsion system was designed to enhance the brand’s DNA, reinventing sportiness for the 21st century.

The all-new 160-hp 4-cylinder 1.5-liter Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) with variable-geometry turbocharger and 350-bar direct gasoline injection makes its exclusive debut.

The Tonale Hybrid offers two power levels, 130 hp and 160 hp, both with front-wheel drive, the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a built-in 48-volt 15-kW, 55-Nm “P2” electric motor (135 Nm thanks to the 2.5:1 transmission ratio).

2023 New Alfa Romeo Tonale hybrid: everything that energy moves

Thanks to the numerous “EV capabilities” Tonale is capable of offering an authentic electric driving experience.

Alfa Romeo provides a concrete commitment to a future oriented towards sustainable mobility with Tonale. It does so while staying true to the brand’s typical performance and driving dynamics. Tonale offers a range of efficient hybrid engines which are capable of improving performance without giving up on considering the environment.

The brand’s first electrified compact SUV reinvents sportiness in the 21st century by ensuring an authentic “hybrid experience”, thanks to state-of-the-art electrification system conceived of to be at the service of the brand.

The Tonale debuts the 160-hp Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) engine, an exclusive for Alfa Romeo. Its variable-geometry turbocharger paired with 7-speed Alfa Romeo TCT dual-clutch transmission and the 48-volt 15-kW, 55-Nm “P2” electric motor (135 Nm thanks to the 2.5:1 transmission ratio) makes it possible to propel the wheels even when the internal combustion engine is turned off. Thanks to this technical solution it is possible to travel in electric mode up to 15kW in every situation in which it is necessary, like driving at low speeds, parking and cruising, in order to provide an authentic hybrid driving experience.

In order to maximize performance and efficiency, a second generation 48 volt lithium-ion highly perfomative battery has been chosen: thanks to its high power (up to 22 kW) it is possible to power the electric traction motor in the best way, moreover its capacity (0.8 kWh) is more than twice as high as the batteries commonly used on BSG hybrid systems. The new battery has a volume of about 11 liters and is therefore very compact: it does not affect the size of the trunk because it is installed under the central tunnel, between the front seats. The "dual voltage" system with DC/DC converter from 48 to 12 Volts manages the interface with the electrical architecture of the vehicle.

Thanks to its technology, the Tonale 48V Hybrid VGT offers the typical performance of a gas engine, which is improved thanks to the responsiveness of the electric motor. Acceleration is consistent with extremely linear power delivery, but with consumption which is comparable to a diesel engine.

The entry point to the Tonale world is the 130-hp hybrid version, the new 4-cylinder 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with 130 hp of output and 240 Nm of peak torque with 7-speed Alfa Romeo TCT and 48-volt “P2” 15 kW and 55 Nm electric motor.

All the specifications of the Hybrid versions

Designed to optimize thermodynamics, and therefore to save on fuel consumption, the new 4-cylinder turbocharged engine has a high compression ratio (12.5:1), a new cylinder head with compact combustion chamber, dual variable valve timing, and special ‘high-tumble’ intake ducts. Its specifications include the fact it operates on the Miller cycle and also features the all-new high-pressure direct injection system, operating at up to 350 bar.

The 160-hp version is an Alfa Romeo exclusive. Thanks to a new variable-geometry turbocharger it is capable of combining great responsiveness at lower speeds and high power for a sportier drive, all while maintaining a high level of efficiency. The input powertrain delivers an output of 130 hp and peak torque reaches 240 Nm.

A belt starter generator is also installed in both engines to guarantee fast and silent transitions when restarting. The Intelligent Brake System optimizes the ‘auto-recharge’ feature and uses mixed regenerative braking to maximize the recovery of kinetic energy during deceleration to improve efficiency.

These exclusive technical solutions guarantee high and efficient performance and provide customers with an authentic hybrid experience. This is possible thanks to the pairing of the new 1.5-liter gasoline engine and electric motor, which provide optimal responsiveness. Plus, the numerous features offered by Tonale make the driving experience even more comfortable, including:

“Silent Start”, to start up the vehicle with no need to turn on the gasoline engine, using EV mode only

“Energy Recovery”, to recover energy that would otherwise be wasted as the car decelerates (e-Coasting) and during braking (Regenerative Braking)

Boost & Load Point Shift, “e-Boosting” allows increased torque on the wheels thanks to the electric motor that supports the gasoline engine; moreover, by calibrating the (engine or braking) torque delivered by the electric motor, it is possible to optimize the operating point of the gasoline engine

Electric Drive, enabling the vehicle to travel using only the electric motor with the gasoline engine turned off.

The Tonale’s various EV capabilities allow it to only use the electric motor (with the gasoline engine turned off) in various driving scenarios, including:

e-Creeping uses the electric motor to provide the start-up normally available in vehicles with automatic transmission, at a speed that can vary from 0 km/h to the equivalent of the gasoline engine idling in first gear, or in reverse

e-Launch, to start the vehicle using only the electric motor

e-Queueing, for the car to keep going in a traffic jam, in a "stop & go" pattern

e-Parking, to simplify parking maneuvers, making them practical and quiet.

EV capabilities are available depending on battery charge status and the output required.

EXCELLENT DYNAMICS PLACE TONALE AT THE TOP OF ITS CLASS

Perfect weight distribution, for unparalleled corner handling.

The Tonale is equipped with the most direct steering in the segment (13,6:1) and equipped with aluminum shift paddles, integral with the column, a one-off in its category.

The only car in its class to adopt the Integrated Brake System (IBS) and offer the braking system with 4-piston fixed calipers by Brembo.

Independent MacPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology. Alternatively, there is Electronic "Alfa Active Suspension", to make it possible to adapt to the selected drive mode.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring Alfa Romeo for the maximum traction and handling.

Perfect weight distribution

The Alfa Romeo Tonale offers maximum driving pleasure thanks to specific technical solutions. One element that contributed to this goal was the perfect weight distribution between the two axles – specific to the Alfa Romeo tradition of construction—which required special management of mass and materials, carried out both by working on the car’s layout and by placing all the heavier components as centrally as possible. The Tonale versions equipped with front-wheel drive use the excellent balance of masses to optimize torque delivery on the ground and handling which can’t be matched on corners.

A singular driving experience also thanks to the most direct steering in the segment and exclusive aluminum shift paddles.

The steering ratio (13,6) enhances the engaging and instinctive driving experience in any situation and at any speed. The adoption of the geometry in the independent front suspension reduces rebound in a natural way, accentuating the precise and intuitive steering feeling, limiting the application of software filtering, and optimizing control of front wheel steering. The sportiness is further enhanced by the aluminum shift paddles: a hallmark of the brand and a one-off in this class.

Integrated Brake System (IBS)

Unique in its class, the new Alfa Romeo Tonale adopts the Integrated Brake System (IBS), an innovative electromechanical system that combines stability control with conventional servo brakes. The system guarantees instantaneous brake response thanks to the integration between electronics and mechanics, together with significant weight optimization, optimal feeling and the total absence of pedal vibrations. In addition, the IBS manages the blending between regenerative braking (to maximize energy recovery) and dissipative braking (achieved through the braking system), in a manner totally undetectable to the driver. Tonale adopts standard fixed calipers by Brembo, with 4 pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and full discs at the rear to guarantee impeccable braking performance.

“Dual Stage Valve” electronic suspension

Developed in conjunction with Marelli, a historical technology partner of Alfa Romeo, the electronic shock absorbers “Dual Stage Valve" provide a choice between performance and comfort. The electronic shock absorbers feature a special electroactuated valve within the shock absorber that provides independent damping curves. Two modes are available: Comfort and Sport. The former is the preset calibration in the D.N.A. Advanced Efficiency and Normal selections, to ensure the smoothest performance on uneven roads. Conversely, Sport mode predominates in the D.N.A. Dynamic and ESC Off selections, which reduces body movements and increases vertical rigidity, aimed at improved vehicle dynamics on corners. Finally, by pressing the dedicated button on the DNA selector, the calibration of Dynamic mode can be activated or deactivated.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring Alfa Romeo

The front-wheel drive versions offer electronic self-locking differential standard, which guarantee perfect traction for a smooth driving experience, emphasizing the agility and sporty character of this car, with a further positive impact in terms of safety. The system is built into the DNA selector and exploits the effect of the braking system by simulating a limited mechanical differential. When combined with the MacPherson front suspension, it ensures sporty and effective driving dynamics by controlling the vehicle stability, and by redirecting the power to the wheels when accelerating on corners. The system also provides improved greater control on slippery surfaces, as well as greatly reducing understeer, transferring torque from the inner to the outer wheel, so as to ensure longitudinal acceleration and consequently better road holding.

Independent MacPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology

Made with Alfa Romeo’s DNA in mind, the suspension scheme provides for a MacPherson-type architecture. The geometry on the front axle is optimized for rapid and precise changes of direction, emphasizing the steering feeling typical of the brand. This reduces steering distortion, limiting the application of software filtering and optimizing control of front wheel steering. In the rear, the exclusive three-arm geometry ensures rapid response when engaging and the highest level of lateral acceleration on corners. Last but not least, the Tonale’s suspension uses Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology – developed in collaboration with Koni, a historical technology partner of Alfa Romeo – to improve performance by ensuring perfect road holding and simultaneously improving comfort in all driving conditions.

RECORD-BREAKING TECHNOLOGY: TO ENHANCE THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE AND PROTECT RESIDUAL VALUE

In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, a true innovation in the automotive sector.

Tonale offers an experience in the name of that “at-home feeling” via the Alexa voice experience.

A completely revamped infotainment system equipped with a sophisticated interface for a “smartphone-like” experience.

Totaling 22.5”, the two large Full TFT screens are the best-in-class in the segment.

NFT technology

In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts NFT (non-fungible token) technology. A true innovation in the automotive sector, Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the “blockchain card” concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle. This distinctive off-board, ready-to-use and sustainable feature emphasizes the innovative nature of Alfa Romeo. With customer’s consent, the NFT generates a certificate of the vehicle’s data. This certificate can be used as a guarantee of the car's overall status and make a positive impact on its residual value. On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on, and buyers will be reassured in their choice of a second-hand car.

Amazon Alexa, to always feel at home

Standing out among the technological innovations, the Alexa Built-in voice experience provides the convenience of hands-free, voice-initiated interactions, making it easier keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. By simply asking Alexa, Tonale customers can control vehicle functions including play music, listen to audiobooks, get directions, check traffic, manage their smart home devices, and more. Customers can interact with their vehicles naturally and say things like, “Alexa, find the closest gas station” or “Alexa, play my road trip playlist” or “Alexa, call Mom.” With the Alexa ‘MyAlfa’ skill, customers can also receive ongoing updates on vehicle status from the comfort of their home, find out the level of charge and/or fuel, search for points of interest, find the car’s latest location, send remote locking and unlocking commands, and much more. Over time, new features and capabilities will be delivered seamlessly through over-the-air software updates

As standard, a brand-new infotainment system also offers content, functionality and services that are always kept up to date, with a customizable Android operating system and 4G connectivity with Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This system includes a fully digital 12.3” screen, the main 10.25” touchscreen unit which, totaling 22.5”, are the best-in-class in the segment.

Moreover, the smooth, sophisticated multitasking interface allows the driver to keep everything at a glance without distracting your attention from the road, ensuring a “smartphone-like” experience.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AT THE SERVICE OF TOP SAFETY AND COMFORT

Level 2 autonomous driving, thanks to the new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Innovative systems at the service of the highest safety and well-being on board.

The advancement of driving modes, managed in the Alfa D.N.A. system.

New ADAS systems heighten the emotions of Level 2 autonomous driving

The new Alfa Romeo Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for Level 2 autonomous driving, which Tonale is equipped with, allow for automatic handling of acceleration, braking and remaining within lanes while maintaining maximum driving safety and leaving the pleasure of sitting at the wheel intact.

In detail, the Alfa Romeo Tonale enables Level 2 autonomous driving by combining the “Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control” (IACC) and “Lane Centering” (LC) systems and the forward-facing camera, which longitudinally and laterally monitors all the car’s surroundings. Specifically, the IACC system makes use of ”Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control”, which automatically adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front, and the “Traffic Sign Recognition” and “Intelligent Speed Control”. The former uses the on-board camera to recognize traffic signs, reports them on the display, and alerts the driver of the current speed limit. The latter suggests the driver reduce speed to the limit detected: if the driver accepts, the cruise control settings are automatically adjusted. Conversely, the LC system controls the sideways movement of the car to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane, even in heavy traffic conditions.

The most in comfort and well-being on board

Italian hospitality steps into the world of premium C-SUVs thanks to the Alfa Romeo Tonale, which embodies exclusivity, good taste and elegance. The Tonale passenger compartment offers the right amount of space for passengers and the driver’s seat ensures a complete feeling of control and domination of the road that does not detract from the driving pleasure typical of a sporty Alfa Romeo car. Comfort and well-being for everyone on board is further ensured by its dual-zone air conditioning, pleasant ambient light, sophisticated infotainment system, ventilated and heated front seats, and a 14-speaker sound system by Harman Kardon. The new model includes an electric tailgate and a wireless charging pad - in front of the gear stick, to place and charge your smartphone in total safety for the highest experience in comfort. Lastly, the Tonale is one of the few models in its class to offer the “Semi-Automatic Parking” system, which indicates the space available to park in and completes the car's entry and exit maneuvers itself. Tonale is aimed at fans of the tangible pleasure of Italian conviviality, comfort and taste.

The advancement of driving modes, managed in the Alfa D.N.A. system

The Alfa D.N.A. driving mode selector, from its debuts in the Giulietta, Mito and 4C, via its development in the Giulia and Stelvio, now arrives in the Tonale with specific functions related to the electric powertrain.

In the Tonale, “Dynamic” mode is designed with a specific calibration of the accelerator pedal, ensuring more effective braking and more direct steering wheel response. The “Natural” mode continues to maintain the best performance optimization. In this mode, it automatically manages the compromise between the use of the electric motor and the internal combustion engine and allows for everyday energy and consumption savings without giving up on performance. Lastly, “Advance Efficiency” mode is calibrated for maximum energy efficiency in the Hybrid version.