Should You Buy a 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio or a 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale?

February 21 2025,

Should You Buy a 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio or a 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale?

Choosing between the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale comes down to your driving priorities. Both SUVs embody the brand’s racing heritage, Italian craftsmanship, and advanced technology, but they cater to different needs. The Stelvio is a performance-driven midsize SUV with a more powerful engine and sports-car-like handling, while the Tonale offers plug-in hybrid efficiency and a compact, city-friendly design.


Understanding their core differences can help you determine which model best fits your lifestyle. If performance and road presence are your top priorities, the Stelvio’s powerful 280-horsepower engine and near-perfect weight distribution deliver an engaging drive. If efficiency and modern technology are your focus, the Tonale’s plug-in hybrid powertrain with up to 53 km of all-electric range and best-in-class 285 horsepower offers a compelling alternative. Let’s break down how these SUVs compare in performance, technology, and driving experience.


Performance: Power vs. Efficiency


The Stelvio is built for performance. It features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque, giving it a 0-100 km/h time of just 5.4 seconds. Paired with all-wheel drive (AWD), an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a class-exclusive carbon-fibre driveshaft, the Stelvio delivers sharp handling and a dynamic driving feel. If you prioritize a thrilling, high-performance drive, the Stelvio stands out as one of the most engaging SUVs on the market.


The Tonale, on the other hand, embraces electrification without sacrificing power. The plug-in hybrid model offers 285 horsepower and 347 lb.-ft. of torque, while the 2.0-litre turbocharged gas engine variant delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The PHEV’s 53 km of all-electric range allows for emissions-free daily commuting, and it also qualifies for up to $10,000 in Canadian EV rebates. If efficiency without compromise is important to you, the Tonale’s hybrid system offers a unique blend of power and sustainability.


Technology & Interior Features


Both SUVs come with luxury-focused interiors, but their approach differs. The Stelvio’s cockpit is built for driving enthusiasts, featuring leather seating, aluminum paddle shifters, and a sport-focused design. It includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with three customizable layouts and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available through the Premium Interior and Sound Package. The Alfa DNA drive mode selector allows you to adjust handling dynamics for a personalized drive.


The Tonale integrates more advanced technology focused on connectivity and driver assistance. It features Uconnect 5 on a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in Alexa functionality. Safety tech is robust, with Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus, Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind-spot Monitoring, and available Level 2 autonomy with Traffic Jam Assist. The Tonale’s cabin is modern, tech-forward, and designed for urban comfort, making it ideal for commuters and tech-savvy drivers.


Driving Experience: Grand Touring vs. Urban Agility


The Stelvio delivers an engaging, sports-car-like drive, enhanced by near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, a performance-tuned suspension, and precise steering. If high-speed stability and long highway drives are part of your routine, the Stelvio offers one of the best driving experiences in the SUV segment.


The Tonale, while also offering an engaging drive, prioritizes urban agility and efficiency. Its dual-mode active suspension, plug-in hybrid powertrain, and compact dimensions make it easier to maneuver in tight city spaces while still delivering Alfa Romeo’s signature dynamic performance. If versatility and fuel savings matter more to you than all-out power, the Tonale is the better fit.


Which One Should You Buy?


  • Choose the 2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio if you want a midsize luxury SUV with superior power, sharp handling, and a premium performance feel.

  • Choose the 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale if you prioritize plug-in hybrid efficiency, advanced technology, and a compact, city-friendly design.

Both models offer the distinct Italian design and racing DNA that make Alfa Romeo unique. The choice ultimately comes down to whether you value performance and power (Stelvio) or efficiency and technology (Tonale).


To explore both models and find the perfect fit for your driving style, visit Scotti Alfa Romeo today.