The new Alfa Romeo Tonale has gone on sale in Ireland at a starting price of €49,995, writes Brian Byrne.
The compact crossover is available with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and in two grades along with a 'Speciale' extra launch version.
All versions are automatic, with outputs of 160hp and 280hp respectively, the latter being AWD thanks to the electric motor on the rear axle.
The PHEV includes a 15.5kWh battery thats some 36pc bigger than that used in the Jeep Compass PHEV, to which the Tonale is closely related.
The car kicks off the new Irish distribution by Gowan Auto, based in a purpose-built HQ at City West, Dublin. Currently there are three Alfa Romeo dealerships, in Dublin, Cork and Waterford. Plans are to increase this to a network of eight.
Two other models are currently available, the Giulia large sedan and the Stelvio SUV which sits above the Tonale.
