Alfa Romeo Tonale vs Audi Q3: which SUV is best?

March 18, 2025 by

Posh German brands have long been the go-to for those looking for a premium SUV, and the Audi Q3 is one of the most popular. But what if you want something a bit different, and a bit more stylish? Well you could check out the Alfa Romeo Tonale.

It’s the Italian brand’s answer to the Q3, but is it worth buying? We’re going to compare the two side-by-side to find out.

Design and Interior: Style or Function?

Both of these SUVs have pretty nice cabins and look smart, but both bring something different to the table.

Alfa Romeo Tonale: For Design Lovers

Alfa Romeo Tonale interior

The Tonale impresses with its muscular stance and aggressive front design. Inside, the cabin feels nice and sporty with a driver-focussed design. The material quality is decent as well, although it doesn’t feel quite as solid as the Audi.

Audi Q3: Timeless and Premium

Audi Q3 interior

The Q3 feels like a properly premium product inside, with some of the best build quality in the business. That said, the slightly drab dashboard design means it doesn’t feel as special as the Alfa. This theme continues on the outside, where the Q3 looks handsome enough but is unlikely to set anyone’s heart racing.

Engines and Driving Experience: Sporty handling vs Comfort

Alfa Romeo Tonale: Agile and Direct

Alfa Romeo Tonale front

The Tonale focuses on a sporty driving experience, with a firm suspension and precise steering – perfect for those who love driving. The hybrid’s gearbox does spoil the fun somewhat though, because it can be slow to respond when you put your foot down.

Audi Q3: the comfortable choice

Audi Q3 front

The Q3 is tuned for comfort, providing a quiet and secure driving experience, especially on long trips. It’s not as fidgety over bumps as the Alfa Romeo, and it’s offered with a wider range of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines.

Value for Money: Which Offers More for the Price?

Alfa Romeo Tonale rear

The starting price of the Alfa Romeo Tonale is £37,000, and it comes with an extensive list of standard kit including a digital driver’s display, 18-inch alloy wheels, and numerous assistance systems including adaptive cruise control. When you buy through Carwow you can save an average of nearly £3,000 on a new Tonale.

Audi Q3 rear

The Audi is actually around £2,000 cheaper than the Tonale, however you do have to spend out on options to get some desirable kit. By the time you’ve gone for the sporty body kit and leather seats you’ll be up at £37,000, and features like adaptive cruise control don’t come standard on any model. However, through Carwow, you can save an average of £2,900.

Conclusion: Tonale or Q3?

The Alfa Romeo is the sporty, emotional choice for those who value design and having fun. The Audi Q3, on the other hand, focuses on comfort and quality. It may be a bit drab, it’s more practical than the Tonale thanks to a big boot and generous rear legroom. It’s for this reason that it wins this test.

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Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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