Alfa Romeo Tonale 2026 Drops Hybrid Variant, Showcases Refined Design
Engine and Performance Changes
The Alfa Romeo Tonale, though relatively new to the market, is set for a refresh in 2026. Notably, the hybrid model is being discontinued, leaving the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as the sole powertrain option. This engine continues to deliver 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and the brand’s Q4 all-wheel-drive system.
Exterior Enhancements
While the overall appearance remains largely the same, the 2026 Tonale features several exterior updates. These include a redesigned front fascia, a new concave scudetto grille inspired by the classic 33 Stradale, and more assertive lower air intakes. Additionally, Alfa Romeo has reduced the front overhang and widened both the front and rear tracks to enhance the vehicle's stance.
The interior of the Tonale remains mostly unchanged, though there are new trim options available. Customers can now choose red leather seats, and all models will include contrast stitching on the dashboard, door panels, and armrests, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin.
Trim Levels and Features
The refreshed Tonale will be available in three trims: Sprint, Veloce, and the newly introduced Sport Special.
Positioned at the top of the lineup, the Sport Special trim boasts silver side skirts, bumper accents, gloss-black Brembo brake calipers, and the newly designed 20-inch three-hole wheels, which are lighter compared to the previous five-hole versions. Inside, it features exclusive black-and-pearl Alcantara-trimmed seats with white stitching and an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard, contrasting with the standard fabric seats found in the Sprint model. The seats also display the iconic biscione logo.
The Veloce trim offers leather seating, a dual-mode suspension system, aluminum shift paddles, and red Brembo brake calipers, catering to enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance and style.
Three new colors—Rosso Brera, Verde Monza, and Giallo Ocra—are introduced alongside existing shades such as Alfa Black, Milano White, Grigio Ascari, Verde Fangio, and Misano Blue. Additionally, a new contrasting black roof option is available, providing more customization choices for buyers.
Availability and Pricing
The updated Tonale is expected to hit dealerships by the end of the year, with Alfa Romeo planning to reveal pricing details closer to the launch date. For comparison, the 2025 Tonale is priced starting at $39,785, including the $3,250 destination fee. In contrast, the Dodge Hornet, which shares the same platform and engine, is priced at $31,990 for its entry-level GT variant.
Despite the anticipated updates, the Tonale faces challenges in the market, with sales dropping by 23 percent in the first nine months of the year, totaling only 2,049 units sold since its U.S. debut for the 2024 model year.
