THE SHOWROOM

New models in this issue include Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW iX1, Chery Tiggo 7, Ford Mustang Mach E, Ford F150 (pictured), Honda CRV, Hyundai Kona electric, Kia EV9, Mahindra XUV700, Mercedes GLC, Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport, Subaru Solterra, Toyota BZ4X, Toyota HiLux, Toyota 70 Series Landcruiser

ALFA ROMEO TONALE FROM $50,900

AIfa Romeo's compact Tonale A Hybrid SUV is available in three variants.

Tonale Ti and Veloce (tested here), priced at $50,900 and $58,900 respectively, are powered by a 1.5-litre four cylinder turbopetrol engine, matched with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic and 48 volt mild hybrid electrification.

Tonale Veloce Plug-In Hybrid, at $78,500, adds a 15.5kWh battery that gives it a claimed EV range of up to 60km. The plug-in drivetrain also features a 1.3-litre four cylinder turbopetrol engine/six-speed automatic that drives the front wheels and an electric motor-driven rear axle.

Combined output is 208kW.

Mild hybrid electrification is not true hybrid technology at least in the sense that the electric components in the drivetrain contribute in any meaningful way. Rather, its main purpose is to improve fuel efficiency in city driving by using extra battery power to keep the vehicle's electrical systems functioning when the engine is automatically switched off as the car comes to a stop in traffic, then to get the car started again when you're ready to move off and to give the petrol engine a high voltage torque boost, via the electric motor, when you put your foot down.