Italian automobiles are typically known for being exotic, fast, expensive, and impractical. Being such, many car buyers see them as unobtainable. But a crossover SUV from Alfa Romeo is changing that. It's somewhat exotic, it's fast, and it doesn't carry a price tag that requires you to see your accountant. And it's an SUV, so it is quite practical. I'm referring to the 2026 Alfa Romeo Tonale.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a small crossover SUV that comes in under the brand's other SUV, the Stelvio. Out since 2023 as a 2024 model the Tonale was initially offered only as a hybrid. Last year, buyers were given an option of the hybrid powertrain or a new gasoline-powered version. For 2026, the hybrid option is gone, making all Tonales gas powered.
Now in its third year, the Tonale gets a mild facelift for 2026 that brings a revised front grille and bumper. Also new is a range-topping Sport Speciale trim that features new fidget spinner-like 20-inch wheels, silver body accents and black-painted Brembo brake calipers. The Tonale isn't extremely flashy as you might expect for an Italian vehicle, but notice the uniqueness to it, like the wheels and the 3+3 headlight design, and you'll realize the Tonale is striking, but in a subtle way.
The interior of the Tonale follows the same agenda. At first, it doesn't instantly grab your attention, but soon, the details emerge. There is the perfectly sized steering wheel with the start button mounted on it. Adding a splash of spark are the multicolor patterns found on the inner part of the seats. Top-trim levels get a cabin draped in leather, Alcantara suede and aluminum accents.
The Tonale seats five, but despite its small footprint, its back seat is quite roomy. And those seated back there get their own air vents and USB ports. Behind the back seat is about 23 cubic feet of cargo room. So yes - an Italian vehicle can be practical.
With the hybrid gone, the sole powertrain for the 2026 Tonal is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which is good for 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It's paired exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The EPA rates it at 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, with a combined rating of 24 mpg.
Alfa Romeo offers the Tonale in three trim levels - the Sprint, Veloce and Sport Speciale. The entry-level Sptint comes surprisingly well-equipped with power front seats, dual zone climate control, wireless charging pad and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. Move up to the Veloce and 20-inch wheels, an adaptive suspension, paddle shifters and red Brembo brake calipers are added. The Sport Speciale brings in those unique wheels, synthetic suede upholstery and dashboard trim. Pricing for the Tonale starts at $40,745. The tester is a Sport Speciale with an MSRP of $48,290.
Few will miss the hybrid version of the Tonale as the all-gas Tonale is just as quick and feels more energetic and eager, which translates to a much more enjoyable driving experience. The Tonale is able to hit 60 mph in the mid 5-second range, which should be plenty quick for most drivers. And every Tonale is equipped with Alfa's DNA drive mode system, which stands for Dynamic, Natural and Advanced, allowing you to adapt the steering, throttle, shift-mapping, and fuel efficiency of the Tonale by simply turning a dial.
The subcompact 2026 Tonale is the brand's smallest offering in the U.S., but while it may not have jaw-dropping looks like we expect from Italian car makers, it does give off that unique vibe that lets buyers know that they have something that is quite special and rare.