plans alfa romeo to bring the Tonale to North America have taken a dramatic turn according to a report claiming that only one version will be offered in USA: the Q4 PHEV that was launched yesterday in Europe.
The tone PHEV of alfa romeo joins the front-wheel drive Tonale mild hybrid in the brand’s European lineup and is the only choice for buyers who want their cars with all wheel drive. But the headquarters of alfa romeo in Italy and the US claimed in the past that North American buyers would get a more conventional non-hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with all-wheel drive. Essentially this was the same combination fitted to the twin Dodge Hornet of the car, but with slightly less power, it made 256 hp (260 PS) and was mated to a automatic transmission nine speed.
Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV without 2.0 Turbo engine in USA
However, in conversation with Automotive News Europe at the launch of the tone PHEVJean-Philippe Imparato, the CEO of Alfa Romeostated that the 2.0-liter turbo will no longer be offered at the Tonale in North America, although it can be purchased in the Hornet, which is built at the same factory in Pomigliano d’Arco, Italy.
Specifically, the PHEV’s combined output of 276 hp (280 PS) makes it more powerful than the 2.0-liter engine. The 1.3-litre petrol engine driving the front wheels makes 178 hp (180 PS), while the rear-mounted electric adds 121 hp (123 PS), delivering a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time. ) of 6.2 seconds.
That kind of acceleration puts it in a similar position to the modified 2.0-liter version, though the advantage of the PHEV Q4 is that it can travel 50 miles (80 km/h) on electric power. The battery can be charged in 2.5 hours with the integrated 7.4 kW charger.
Reduce CO2 production
A spokesperson for the brand said the U-turn was the result of Alfa Romeo having to reduce CO2 production in states that adhere to the emissions targets set by California.
Initially, it was questioned whether it was really more of the brand trying to get around the problem of competing with the Hornet, which is pretty much the same car, but available at a much lower price, by offering a different engine setup. But the website report also claims that the Hornet will be available with the PHEV powertrain.
We will have to wait a while to find out if Ala Romeo made the right decision by eliminating the 2.0L Turbo for its Tonale in the US, only time will tell.
IT MAY INTEREST YOU:
- When will the Alfa Romeo supercar debut? This was what the CEO of the brand gave
- Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio 2023 renewed with Matrix LED lights, digital indicators and Competizione finish (+ Images)
- Hybrid vs Electric vs PHEV: differences and which is better
Font: carscoops
