The design of the Alfa Romeo Tonale
  • 5 years ago
The design of the Alfa Romeo Tonale is an expression that looks fondly into our future. Its compact dimensions embody unique Italian design and the unmistakable original and modern style typical of Alfa Romeo, striking the perfect blend of valued heritage and anticipation of new precepts. Alfa Romeo holds dear the essence of Italian art and sculpture, through the timeless "artigianale" experience of hand sculpting. The Tonale is inspired by the beauty and nuances associated with human forms, and the organic movement of light resulted by pure lines and volumes. Its design tangibly recalls a number of time-honoured design elements that are synonymous with the rich history of Alfa Romeo, with an execution that excites a modern approach to the new Alfa Romeo anatomy. An element that echoes the tradition of the Alfa Romeo DNA is the phone dial wheel. The Tonale's 21" wheel design displays this through a lightweight architectural construction, creating an honest and impactful execution of the circular theme. The lineage of the phone dial wheel dates back to the 1960's, worn proudly on the iconic 33 Stradale. The distinctive Tonale wheel design is also celebrated harmoniously with an exclusive Pirelli tire scheme. The bold, elegant volumes of the body side make reference to a seemingly distant past, recalling the sensual qualities found it the pure forms of the Duetto and the Disco Volante Spider, while the Tonale's "Linea GT" interprets the tension and confidence of the pouncing stance found on the beloved GT Junior. The front end sports Alfa Romeo's signature "Trilobo" and the distinctive "Scudetto" grille that serves as the central point of strength, driving the speed and fluidity that moves throughout the Tonale. Flanking the iconic "Scudetto" and completing the front monographic is the "3 plus 3" forward lighting that evokes the proud gaze reflective of the SZ and Brera. The rear of the Tonale is elegantly defined by an enveloping window volume, complemented on top by the suspended wing that enhances the continuity between the transparent roof and the rear window itself. As every Alfa Romeo design is cared for through the human touch, the rear lighting is reminiscent of an artistic signature, rather than an optical lighting element...a sort of luminous signature born directly from the artist's hand.