Alfa Romeo Tonale Delayed: CEO Wants Better PHEV Performance

Alfa Romeo Tonale Delayed: CEO Wants Better PHEV PerformanceIt is not yet known when it will be available for launch in 2021.

For Alfa Romeo, the Tonale crossover is coming soon. The Giulia and Stelvio models are not up to standard, so the Tonale is a welcome relief. According to a new report, it will not be launched in time.

It was first shown in a concept form two years ago. The sub-Stelvio SUV will hit European Alfa showrooms in November. However, Jean-Philippe Imparato (HTMOT0_ Automotive News ) claims that the new CEO of the company wants the model’s PHEV to perform better.

Following the merger of FCA and PSA, Imparato assumed the control at Alfa and saw the Tonale for his first time in January. According to “a source familiar” with the matter, he wants better performance from the vehicle’s plug-in hybrid engine. This will result in some modifications. Sources from separate suppliers claim that the tweaks will delay launch of the Tonale by around three months.

The platform that is the basis for the new Alfa crossover will continue to be used. Jeep Compass. This model was updated with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It is available in two versions: 190 horsepower (142 Kilowatts) or 240 hp (175 kW). The system is powered by a 1.3-liter turbo engine and a 60-hp electric motor (45-kW), on the rear axle. The electric range can be extended to 30 miles (49 km) with a single 11.4-kilowatt hour battery charge.
After being the Peugeot head before moving to Alfa, Imparato understands that a small SUV can deliver even more performance. The French brand’s 3008PHEV is powered by a larger, 1.6-liter engine combined with two electric motors. This gives it a combined output power of 300 hp (224kW). A 13.2-kWh battery pack is also available for the SUV, which can be used to drive 37 miles (59 kilometers) in electric mode.