As one of the world’s largest automakers, Fiat was not to be left out of the line-up of new cars for 2014, revealing not one, not two, but four new vehicles – three of which were revealed at the Auto Expo 2014. After Fiat’s recent takeover of Chrysler, it wasn’t long before they set to work expanding into both the Indian and global markets. Owning around 104 dealerships in India, Fiat has begun catering for its new demographic, reflected in its newly unveiled vehicles.
“The introduction of the new products in the Indian market is in line with our long strategy, which puts us in a strong position to penetrate into the Indian market,” said Nagesh Basavanhalli, (President and Managing Director of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Indian operations).
The new Fiat Linea was the first to be unveiled with its restyled front grill, front and back bumper and newly introduced little chrome highlights. There is a definite sleeker look here, without straying too far from its predecessor. The interior has been upgraded to a more comfortable, user-friendly style offering cruise control, a new audio system with USB, AUX and Bluetooth compatibility, reverse parking sensors, rain sensing windshield wipers and a whole lot more. The 1.2-litre T-Jet petrol churns out a maximum power output of 112.4bhp and 207Nm of torque. The Linea comes in a 1.2-litre T-Jet petrol and a 1.3-litre Advanced Multi-Jet.
Both the Avventura hatchback and the Abarth 500 were revealed at the same time. The Avventura is based on the fiat Punto, but with some much-needed improvements to compete with the Volkswagen Cross Polo. Basically an off-road semi-rugged crossover – complete with tail gate mounted spare wheel – the Avventura has larger wheels, protective skid plates, strips and moulding on the sides, roof rails and a 200mm ground clearance to cope with rough conditions.
The Abarth 500 is marketed as a high cost performance hatchback with a 1.4-litre turbo engine providing 160hp. With gas discharge headlights, sunroof, cross drilled brake disk, sports seats, lowered suspension with up-rated springs, 17” alloy wheels, 7 airbags, turbo boost gauge, twin exhaust outlets, ABS, EBD, HBA, parking sensors, fog lights, hi-fi music system and more, it’s definitely a car for the gadget-orientated driver.
The 2014 Punto remains a closely-guarded secret, to be revealed later on in 2014 – but don’t think for a moment that Fiat is done. The manufacturer also wants to open 100 dealerships across the country within the next year, as well as improve its customer service – hoping to provide a better service for Fiat users claiming they have “learned from the past”. With so many great cars being unveiled already in 2014, this is looking like a pretty fantastic year for the car market.
If you’re looking for a new Fiat but can’t fund the purchase – don’t worry. At the Car Loan Warehouse, we help you finance the car you want at a rate you can afford. So no matter your budget or circumstances, you can drive in style. Go get yourself some Fiat finance and you could be cruising around in your turbocharged Abarth 500 by the end of the week!
