The new Alfa Romeo Tonale is an evolution of the concept car first unveiled at the 2019 Geneva motor show. The production version carries styling elements of the show car and is a smaller SUV sitting below the Stelvio, launched in 2016. Its appeal has seen it top the Stelvio sales in some markets and confirms Alfa’s commitment to expanding its SUV offerings. The prestige compact SUV market has serious competition which includes competing choices from the obvious German trio as well as Volvo.

Within the Stellantis group, the all-new 160hp four-cylinder 1.5-litre hybrid engine is exclusive to Alfa and is paired with a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Along with a 48V hybrid battery, it can start and travel in electric mode at low speeds and when parking or cruising. Drive is to the front wheels, with zero to 62mph achieved in 8.5 seconds.

Although the refreshed model range, introduced this year, extends to a plug-in hybrid version offering all-wheel drive, the review models were the 1.5 litre versions. The PHEV versions have a different turbo powerplant of 1.3 litres but with an increased output of 270 bhp. This is combined with a 15.5kWh battery and Q4 all-wheel drive reducing the zero to 62 mph time to 6.6 seconds.

The entry-level version of the Tonale offers a strong combination of style, technology and comfort as standard. On the exterior, it gets full LED matrix headlights and taillights with the signature 3+3 lamp design and 17-inch wheels. Inside, black fabric upholstery complements the leather steering wheel, while information is provided on a 12.3-inch digital driver’s cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment system.

The Veloce variant brings the specification level up to what would be expected in an Alfa, but at a price. The exterior receives gloss black window frames, dark 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and dedicated badging, while the interior offers premium leather seats in red or black with electric adjustment, heating, ventilation and lumbar support. A heated steering wheel adds winter comfort, while aluminium paddle shifters confirm a sporting heritage complementing the start button mounted on the steering wheel. The infotainment system is also upgraded to the Alfa Connect system with satellite navigation.

On road, and the car impresses with its confident poise and excellent steering response. The range opening model on its 17-inch wheels offers a more compliant ride than on the larger wheels of the Veloce, but overall grip remains reassuring. The driver has the typical double cowl instrument presentation with the infotainment screen a sensible size sitting just proud of the dash unit. Auto changes are smooth with a comprehensive range of ADAS support included.

Cabin space is good all round for five occupants while a wide hatch and low sill give good access to the 500 litre boot. With the 60:40 rear seats folded this is extendable to 1,550 litres.

Staying with the front-wheel drive models, the Veloce carries more of the Alfa expectations than the base model weighing in at £43,565 as opposed to £37,665 but there are a few options which would allow some embellishment. However, the added penalty for the Veloce is its over £40K price which now demands the higher VED rate of £600 per annum for the first two to five years.