The Tonale is a beautiful concept vehicle that will strongly influence an upcoming subcompact crossover from the Italian company. It shares a streamlined appearance with other Alfa Romeo models, and the production version is expected to slot behind the Stelvio crossover in size and price. The Tonale concept also signals potential styling updates for future Alfa products, with its slim head- and taillights that house distinct lighting elements. Likewise, it previews a plug-in hybrid version that represents the automaker's first electrified model.
The 2020 Alfa Romeo Tonale was one of the surprises of the Geneva motor show and it’s fair to say concrete details are still a little thin on the ground. That said, it’s sized to be an alternative to cars like the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40 so you can expect it to have a starting price of around £28,000 rising to closer to £40,000 for the petrol-electric hybrid model you’ll read about later. You can expect the Alfa to go on sale towards the end of 2020.
The 2018 Ford Edge has an eager feel and crisp design; safety scores and Sport ride quality give pause.The Edge satisfies more than a few needs. It’s sleeker than the truck-infused Expedition, even the Explorer. It’s more spacious than the Escape. It’s also devoid of any off-road pretense, any faux-SUV ruggedness.
Pros Quick steering Cabin’s muted details Wide range of engines Composed ride on small-tire models Edge Sport lives up to name
Cons Seats are a big letdown Real-world fuel economy Stiff Sport ride
The Ford Endura is Ford Australia’s first large soft-road SUV since it stopped producing the Territory. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that’s both powerful and relatively economical. It is good to steer, with polished cornering manners for a large SUV. There are front-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, and auto-braking is standard.
Pros Punchy engine; roadholding, cabin space, standard features.
Cons Dated dashboard, no petrol option.
Many Australians sorely miss the locally built Ford Territory. We’ve had our first local drive of the imported Endura to discover whether that large-SUV product gap has been adequately filled…
Pros Spacious rear seat and big boot Good steering Ride comfort and secure handling on country roads Smooth and quiet turbo diesel Lots of technology/features from entry model upwards
Cons No third-row seating despite vehicle’s size Performance only adequate Urban ride quality still an unknown Cabin presentation a bit underwhelming $4000 charge for AWD
