News - Fiat India delivers single largest order of 495 Punto

Fiat dealer in the city of Surat, Gujarat, bagged the order for 465 units of the Fiat Punto Evo from a prominent business house. The cars were part of Diwali gifts for company.

Companies get rather innovative when it comes to giving out bonuses to valued employees at Diwali. However, a business house in Gujarat is out to show employers how it’s done. Hari Krishna Exports Pvt Ltd, a diamond firm in Surat with over 9,000 employees on its payroll, handed out gifts worth Rs 50 crore, including 495 Fiat Punto Evos. 

Fiat launches its iconic car ‘500’ in India

Mumbai - The much awaited, 500, arrived in India accompanied by a celebration in true Italian style. A select few were witness to this celebration at the Taj Land’s End in Mumbai where the who’s who of the city congregated to welcome the arrival of the ‘new Fiat’. Cinquecento, as the car is known in Italian, was originally designed by Dante Giocosa and was launched in 1957 in Turin. Exactly, fifty years after its original launch the new Fiat 500 was introduced last year in Turin amidst much fanfare that spread across several cities in Italy. The car which was then launched all over Europe including Berlin and London has not taken too long to drive to India. A little over a year’s wait and the icon of Italian style has announced its arrival to one of the fastest growing economies of the world.

Launched in the late 50’s, the car changed the concept of city car in the world and immediately became part of the collective memory of all Italians who associate the 500 with la dolce vita or the sweet life. The re-launch of the car has triggered nostalgia in Italy. But, it is more than nostalgia that the Fiat 500 has to offer to its customers. The engines of the new 500 are Euro 5 ready and the car itself is the best in its class on safety parameters with 5 star EuroNCAP safety rating. The car has been conferred with the title of ‘Car of the Year 2008’ in Europe and was also voted as one of the safest cars. The celebration of Fiat 500 was attended by top Fiat and Tata Motors officials along with the movers and shakers of Mumbai who signify the combination of success and style.

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Speaking at the launch, Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Pvt Ltd, said, “The launch of the Fiat 500 fits perfectly in the Indian context as the company is going through the process of transformation. We are confident that this car, with it’s stylish looks, economical consumption figures, exceptional safety features and green credentials, will win a place in everyone’s hearts.”

The evening was compered by Mansi Scott and made special by percussionist Taufiq Qureshi and contemporary dancer Isha Shravani who all delivered performances befitting the car. The highpoint of the evening was the creation of a first-of-its-kind artistic impression using the Fiat 500 as a paintbrush on a 40x40 feet canvas. This unique painting was created by Jayesh Sachdev an upcoming modern artist who was inspired by the creativity and expression that embodies the Fiat 500. The car will be available in two trim levels– Lounge and Sport and will be powered by the 1.3 multijet engine capable of generating 75bhp of power. The car will be equipped with “Blue & Me” the voice activated in-car communication system and infotainment. Fiat 500 will be available through the imported CBU (completely built unit) route and the company will facilitate the import of the car to the customer. Fiat has also made the provision of customizing the car to ensure the exclusivity of every Fiat 500. The launch of the 500 is the ideal pre-cursor to the introduction of the other muchawaited Fiat cars such as Bravo, Linea and the Grande Punto in the Indian market.

In the first phase the Fiat 500 will be sold & distributed by Tat Motors through the new Fiat dealer network in six cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Pune). The car will be made available in eleven colours (Bossa Nova White, Jive Blue, Breakfast Grey, Mod Blue, Crossover Black, Ye Ye Green, Calypso Orange, Cha Cha Cha Azure, Pasodoble Red, Tropicalia Yellow, and Punk Grey) The car will be priced at Rs.14,82,500 (ex-showrooms Delhi). With the 500, fiat smiles at the future.

New Fiat network:
The Fiat 500 will be retailed through select dealerships situated in the key markets of Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune and Chandigarh-Mohali. These dealerships have been upgraded with internal as well as external Brand Identity Elements that project the new face of Fiat in the market. At these dealerships, along with the new Fiat red logo, customers can expect an ambience that boasts of a global, contemporary outlook. Dealerships have been remodeled with modern concepts like an elegant minimalist layout, brand neutral surfaces, friendly and inviting waiting areas etc. The dealership exteriors too have been upgraded to give high visibility through contemporary design, illumination and layout.

For the convenience of our discerning customers who may wish to appreciate the Fiat 500 first hand, the vehicles will be on display at these select dealerships. These new Fiat dealerships are part of the dual dealership arrangement with Tata Motors and are equipped to display and execute all commercial as well as after-sales support requirements for the Fiat 500.

500- A worldwide icon:
After its launch in 1957 in the centre of Turin, Fiat 500 was engraved in the collective memory of all Italians who associate the Fiat 500 with cherished memories. The new Fiat 500 is also in the same league with its design and features nor has Fiat left any stone unturned in creating an icon of a car with its innovative launches. The car was launched in a grand manner in Turin, Italy at the Po river last year and the launch was celebrated simultaneously in several cities across Italy. The car was later launched in the Berlin underground and on the London eye in UK. The multiple launches of the car have been 500% unconventional.

Features:The car will be available in India in two equal value trim levels- Lounge and Sport which will both sport the 1.3 multijet engine capable of generating 75hp.

Common to Lounge and Sport:
Automatic air conditioner
Blue & me
ABS anti-lock braking with EBD
Remote central locking
Seven airbags
Body coloured
Electric drive
door mirrors with defrost
Height adjustable driver’s seat
Seat-back pockets
Height adjustable steering wheel
Radio with MP3-compatible CD player and 6 speakers
Front passenger under-seat stowage
Dual drive electric power steering
Folding rear seat
Follow Me Home headlights
Trip computer
Front / rear fog lamps

Lounge:
Leather steering wheel with Blue&Me controls
15” alloy wheel
Exterior chrome trim
Glass roof (fixed)
Passenger seat storage

Sport:
In addition to the common specification, Sport adds:
Sporty leather steering wheel with Blue&Me controls
Sports seat
15” sports alloy wheels
Dark tinted rear windows
Spoiler.

Fiat planning to revive Dino small sports car with help from Lotus

As part of its model lineup expansion plan started in 2003, Fiat is reportedly now looking to revive its Dino two-door sports car with some help from the engineers over at Lotus Cars in Britain.

If you're scratching your head wondering why we called the Dino a Fiat and not a Ferrari, Fiat made the predecessor to the iconic Maranello sports car beginning in 1966. It never officially made it to our shores before its demise in 1973, though many have been personally imported.

According to Car, Fiat CEO Lorenzo Sistino wants to broaden his company's market appeal and has chosen to reenter the small two-seater roadster segment with experienced sports car builder, Lotus. Their agreement is said to allow Fiat to use the new Elise's componentry for its own, distinctly Italian version. The first Dino sports car was known for its stylish looks at a decent price, and with a little bit of help from Lotus, the upcoming model could also infuse a bit of road-holding performance to the mix.

Car estimates the Fiat Dino revival will hit European roads sometime in 2011.

Fiat Ritmo Road Test

NUTS AND BOLTS

Price - From A$24,990 (NZ$29,700) to A$36,490 (NZ$44,200).

Country Of Origin - Italy

Engine Size/Type - 1.4-litre petrol, 1.4-litre turbo petrol, 1.9-litre turbo diesel

Power - 1.4-litre petrol (66kW), 1.4-litre turbo petrol (110kW), 1.9-litre turbo diesel (110kW)

Torque - 1.4-litre petrol (128Nm), 1.4-litre turbo petrol (230Nm), 1.9-litre turbo diesel (305Nm)

Fuel Consumption - 1.4: 6.7 litres/100km, 1.4T: 7.1L/100km, 1.9TD: 5.6L/100km

Safety Rating - Five-star rating by Euro NCAP. Front, side and curtain airbags. Stability control is standard on Sport models only ($650 option on others).

CO2 emissions - 1.4: 158g/km, 1.4T: 167g/km, 1.9TD: 149g/km

Resale - Fiat cars are still getting re-established here and that takes time for resale values to firm up. Industry experts believe this model will do OK but residuals won't be as strong as the VW Golf, its main rival.

If, with a bit of a squint, you reckon this car looks like a Maserati, you're not far off the mark. The same person who designed the latest model from the Italian sports car maker penned this Fiat hatch.

Before he worked for the Italians, Frank Stevenson also designed the modern version of the Mini. So, this creation is perhaps the first time he has blended two of his most notable achievements in one car.

Some may call it a Maserati hatch but, in Australia at least, Fiat calls it the Ritmo. It's Italian for rhythm but it doesn't easily roll off the tongue. At first it sounds like the name of an electric lawnmower.

Almost everywhere else in the world this car is called the Bravo but Fiat couldn't use that name in Australia because Mazda owns the rights to that badge for one of its utes, even though it no longer sells that model.

The Ritmo name was first used by Fiat 30 years ago for a rudimentary hatch not sold here and shelved when the model was axed 20 years ago. And that is how we came to have an unconventional name for what seems, at first, to be an unconventional car.

The Ritmo has sports car touches, such as the long, sloping bonnet, pronounced nose and bulging rear haunches, but it is in fact a rival to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf.

It's an athletic appearance rarely seen in the small-car class but it is a refreshing change. The beauty is more than skin deep. Inside, Fiat has used styling cues and materials similar to those in Maseratis, including the dash fascia, which is covered in a faux carbon-fibre weave and fine detailing in the instruments.

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Importantly, the gorgeous body does not come at the expense of hatch practicality. There is plenty of cabin room front and rear and more than adequate cargo space.

Depending on which model you choose, the seat fabrics have a sporty feel or a high-end luxury appearance. There's also an optional glass roof ($1950), so front and rear passengers get a clear view of the sky.

None of these touches are an accident. For the Ritmo to be taken seriously in the small-car class, Fiat knew it had to come up with something out of the ordinary. It needed something that would stand out in a sea of hatchbacks such as the Ford Focus, Opel (Holden) Astra, Volkswagen Golf and the like.

The Ritmo went on sale in Australia in February this year. Initially two engines were available - a 1.4-litre turbo petrol and a 1.9-litre turbo diesel - each with two levels of equipment (Emotion and Luxury). Prices started at A$29,990 (NZ$36,300) and stretched to A$36,490 (NZ$44,200).

This is at the premium end of the small-car class and Fiat equipped the Ritmo accordingly, with one notable exception. To help contain prices, stability control (which can help prevent a crash) is a A$650 option on most Ritmo models.

Locally, this puts the small Fiat at odds with its European peers, which have the technology as standard. It's an unfortunate blot on an otherwise impressive safety story, for the Ritmo, with a full complement of airbags, scores five stars in European NCAP crash tests.

To help stimulate sales, Fiat recently introduced a third, more affordable version of the Ritmo with basic standard equipment, powered by a regular 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine. It costs A$24,990.

We've tested the turbo petrol and diesel models but not the just-released base model.

On the road, the Ritmo is fuss-free to drive although not everyone is likely to be a fan of the electrically assisted steering, which can slightly numb driver feedback. At least it makes light work of parking. A button on the dashboard increases steering sensitivity for sporty driving.

The 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine may not sound like much but it has more power and torque than a 2.0-litre Golf at the same $29,990 price.

Importantly, the Fiat's turbo engine delivers a more seamless urge of power once on the move than does the regular VW 2.0-litre engine. The Fiat completes the 0-100kmh dash in 8.5 seconds compared with 8.8 for the Golf, according to the makers.

However, the Ritmo has a secret weapon: a button on the dashboard literally gives the turbo more boost, which cuts the 0-100kmh time to 8.2 seconds and generally makes the car feel a lot more toey.

Fuel economy suffers slightly but at least the driver has the choice. It's a handy feature that is likely to become more common as makers strive to find new ways to trim decimal points from their fuel consumption targets. Most of the time the Ritmo is fine in economy mode but it's good to know the power is there when you need it.

For the technically minded, the "overboost" button increases torque from 206Nm at 2250rpm to 230Nm at 3000rpm. Translation: finally, a power button that makes a difference you can actually feel.

The turbo petrol Ritmo isn't quite a Golf GTI rival but it's not far off.

It is intended to compete with the twin-charge VW Golf, which also has a relatively small 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with some extra grunt thanks to both a supercharger and a turbocharger - hence the name. (It's the model in the TV ad where the front seat passenger spills a drink over himself, caused by the VW's rapid acceleration.)

The Ritmo is slightly slower than the twin-charge Golf (which takes 7.9 seconds for the 0-100kmh dash, the maker claims) and has slightly less power and torque than the VW but in Sport guise at least the Ritmo is A$2000 cheaper (A$32,990 (NZ$40,000) versus A$34,990). Put it this way: take a Fiat Ritmo Sport 1.4T for a test drive before you sign on the dotted line for a twin-charge Golf and you may be pleasantly surprised.

The diesel Ritmo is less of a standout, not because it is substandard but because it is competing in a tough part of the market. It has more power but less torque than the equivalent Golf diesel - but is slightly quicker and fractionally more fuel-efficient.

The problem is, in Emotion guise at least, the $33,490 Fiat is $1000 dearer than the Golf.

In the Sport diesel versions of both cars, the $36,490 Fiat is $1000 cheaper than the VW. However, Fiat charges more for metallic paint on the Ritmo than VW does on the Golf ($850 versus $690).

We should also point out that of the eight available Ritmo colours only two are not metallic.

The Ritmo is also a six-speed manual-only proposition for the time being.

A robotised manual gearbox is due next year but its unfortunate lack of a self-shifting transmission will delete it from the shopping list for many buyers.

This is a shame, because the Ritmo is a something of a surprise package. In a good way.

Scoop: Fiat 500 May Be On Way to U.S. By 2010

Hot on the heels of the Chrysler-Fiat alliance announcement comes word that Chrysler is considering a crash program to fast track the Fiat 500 for sale in the U.S. If Chrysler gives the project the green light, it would be here in "well under 18 months," a source says. Set aside Fiat Group's clinic to determine whether it should bring in the 500 or the Alfa Romeo MiTo, the plan is to get the 500 into Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep dealers as soon as possible as a traffic-builder.

If the Fiat 500 can reach our shores in time for the 2010 calendar year, it will compete with such other small- and green-car showroom draws as the 2011 Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Volt. Apparently, the 500 would need a new bumper beam and front fascia to meet U.S. offset standards, and not much else. There is cost and time in receiving U.S. certification for any new car or truck to be sold here, so, no, it cannot be done "immediately." I'm told the car would be sold in the U.S. but perhaps not Canada, because Canadian standards are actually slightly tougher. They require front turn-signal lenses to survive a 5 mph bumper test without cracking because they often double as daytime running lights, required north of the 49th parallel.

Before you plunk down some cash on a Fiat 500, you should be aware that the car is no Mini Cooper S. It is a (standard) Mini Cooper competitor, though. My source says that Chrysler plans to bring the car in with a 100-horsepower gasoline four-cylinder engine. That's in the ballpark of the standard 118-horsepower Mini Cooper, but the 500 Abarth engine makes 135 horsepower, well below the Cooper S' 172 horses.

Abarth's Web site estimates a 0-62 mph time of 7.9 seconds for its version of the 500, equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox. Mini's site estimates a 0-60 mph of 6.7 seconds for a six-speed manual-equipped S.

Point is, except for the Abarth, the 500 is not designed to be a driver's car in the manner of the Cooper. It was drawn with the same kind of impossible-to-resist interior and exterior design, though, that transcends its b-segment size. It's more a larger smart fortwo with a backseat than an Italian Mini. And so it's the type of product for which Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep dealers are desperate. I think it would be a great move for Chrysler to go forward with a Fiat 500 "crash program." What do you think? Do you know anyone who's got to have this car?
source:motor trend

The New Fiat Linea 2008

The Fiat Linea, which was present in Istanbul last October, now makes its market debut. This three-box Segment C saloon gives a new interpretation of styling, practicality and enjoyable driving, all for an extremely competitive price/contents ratio.

The car was developed by Tofas A.S., the 50-50 joint venture between Fiat Auto and Koç Holding which is listed on the Istanbul Stock Exchange. It will be manufactured in the plant in Bursa, Turkey (fully operative, output will reach 60,000 units per year) and will be marketed in a number of European and non-European countries: Spain, Germany, Morocco and Finland. At a later date, the Fiat Linea will also be manufactured in Brazil, India, China and Russia.

The new model clearly has an international vocation; it was designed by the Fiat Style Centre, and its exterior styling is elegant, dynamic and typically ‘Italian’. The aim was to appeal to the public with uncluttered, smooth lines which confirm the new Fiat family feeeling (from the Grande Punto to the new Bravo), while they offer a new reading of the stylistic elements of the great Italian motoring tradition in the saloon segment. This extraordinary stylistic heritage has now produced the Fiat Linea, a 4-door saloon that is sleek and elegant, but with generous dimensions that put it at the top of its class: it is 4.56 metres long, 1.73 metres wide, 1.5 metres tall and has a wheelbase of 2.6 metres, as well as a 500 litre luggage compartment.

The same attention went into the styling of the interior, where the lines are harmonious and balance well with the exterior, creating a friendly, light-filled environment that provides an amazing amount of room and superior comfort, where ergonomics and space for the driver and passengers are concerned. And it is in terms of the quality, comfort, practicality and enjoyment of the interior that the Fiat Linea aims to make the difference, backed up by the refinement of the materials and by the colour combinations, as well as the attention paid to every detail and to the assembly.

Designed for an elegant, refined clientele with plenty of personality, the new model is agile and enjoyable to drive in all situations. It has a sparkle that is due primarily to its engines, which combine excellent performance, low consumption and absolute respect for the environment (they are all Euro 4). At the launch the model will be offered with a choice between a petrol engine (1.4 8v, 77 bhp) and a turbodiesel (1.3 Multijet 16v, 90 bhp with a variable geometry turbo), both combined with five-speed mechanical transmissions; the 120 bhp 1.4 16v Turbo from the new T-Jet family will be available at a later date.

The Fiat Linea range is very comprehensive to cater for a clientele that considers cars of this class as a real investment, because it represents the family’s main car, and it will adapt to the various markets where it is sold. In most of these, at its launch, the range will offer two engines (90 bhp 1.3 Multijet and 77 bhp 1.4 16v), three specifications (Active, Dynamic and Emotion), and 11 body colours. The range also proposes equipment worthy of a higher segment, such as certain sophisticated climate and infotainment devices that improve the comfort and quality of the time spent on board: from automatic climate control, the Blue&Me® system with USB port, a radio with CD-player (including MP3 files) and Cruise Control, down to rain, dusk and parking sensors. In other words, there are endless possible combinations, all offering excellent value for money and the best price-content ratio.

Finally, the Fiat Linea is equipped with a reliable suspension layout which guarantees very easy, precise steering, excellent roadholding and the best possible comfort for passengers: an independent MacPherson system at the front, and semi-independent wheels connected by a torsion axle at the rear.

But the Fiat Linea is not only styling, plenty of personality, modern reliable engineering, a wealth of equipment and outstanding comfort. It is also a very safe car. Rather than the individual devices, it is the combination of the many solutions adopted that make it one of the safest cars in its segment. Stable, effective braking, good acceleration guaranteed by the engines and predictable handling, get the Fiat Linea out of even the most critical situations. The new model is also very well equipped where passive safety is concerned, a fact borne out by the presence of 6 airbags (Multistage at the front, curtain-bags and sidebags) which are standard depending on the version and the market. What is more, it also adopts a number of innovative technical elements that ensure the driver always has total control of the car (active safety). These include latest generation ABS, complete with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and, optionally, the sophisticated ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

These briefly are the winning features of the Fiat Linea which aims to play a leading role in this category, where all the world’s major carmakers compete. Segment C accounts for 20% of the Western European car market, in other words the core of the market, with about 3,000,000 registrations per year. However, the majority of the cars in segment C are two-box hatchbacks, while 3-box models (saloons) only account for 5% of that market, with 150,000 registrations per year (this is expected to reach 160,000 units by 2013).

The share in other non-European countries is more significant. In Turkey, for example, segment C represents 52% of the whole market, and saloons account for 75% of this, with 170,000 registrations per year (approximately 50% of these are premium cars, and the sales mix is 50% petrol and 50% diesel models).

The Fiat Linea is destined to become a strategic car for the Fiat range in China: the entire Chinese market totalled 4,000,000 vehicles in 2006, and is expected to reach 7,500,000 units by 2013.

And finally, in Brazil, the market absorbed 1,835,000 cars in 2006, and is expected to reach 2,250,000 units by 2013 (because the Brazilian market is structured differently, the Fiat Linea is in category D, and its goal is to achieve a 13% share of the segment). A special version will be marketed in Brazil, powered by the new 130 bhp 1.9 Flexfuel engine (running on gasohol, which already contains about 22% ethanol, and pure bio-ethanol). Bio-ethanol and gasohol are poured into the same tank, a feature that makes it easier for motorists to fill up. The engine software recognises the composition of the mix and automatically adapts the injection and ignition parameters. Flexfuel engines are able to function in the same way and with the same performance with both conventional fuels and with alcohol-based fuels. In environmental terms, the advantage of ethanol lies in the fact that it is a renewable source of energy and helps to limit emissions of greenhouse gases, because it captures carbon dioxide in the production process.

Chrysler declares itself bankrupt

• Hedge funds refuse to countenance $2bn payoff to settle debt
• Obama condemns actions of 'small group of speculators'
• 11th-hour Fiat deal fails to save carmaker

America's third-largest car manufacturer, Chrysler, has declared itself bankrupt after a handful of creditors withstood pressure from the Obama administration to forgive billions of dollars in debt, casting a cloud of uncertainty over tens of thousands of jobs at factories, suppliers and dealers.

After round-the-clock negotiations broke down, the 83-year-old Detroit ­carmaker put its future in the hands of the courts, despite an 11th-hour deal with Italy's Fiat to pool ­technology in building new vehicles.

Both the White House and Chrysler expressed hope for a "surgical" bankruptcy lasting 30 to 60 days, clearing the company's liabilities and allowing it to emerge in healthy shape. But legal experts questioned whether this will be achievable and factory workers expressed fear for their jobs.

Although unions and Chrysler's leading banks accepted a rescue package brokered by the US treasury to swap Chrysler's liabilities for shares in the business, a group of hedge and investment funds refused to countenance a clause in which Chrysler's $6.9bn (£4.6bn) of debt would be cancelled through a cash payment of just $2bn.

Speaking at the White House, President Barack Obama made clear his anger towards the hold-outs: "While many stakeholders made sacrifices and worked constructively, I have to tell you that some did not. A group of hedge funds and investment funds decided to hold out for an unjustified taxpayer bailout."

He said it was "unacceptable" for a "small group of speculators" to endanger Chrysler's future. But he expressed optimism that Chrysler, which makes brands including Jeep and Dodge, could be restructured through a bankruptcy filing: "This is not a sign of weakness, but rather one more step on a clearly charted path towards revival."

Chrysler employs 54,000 people, but tens of thousands more work for parts companies and in motor dealerships that depend on the firm for business. About 115,000 retired Chrysler workers depend on the company for healthcare and benefits.

Damage to brand
Renowned for popularising the ­minivan, and for its robust sports-utility vehicles and pick-up trucks, Chrysler has struggled even more than its loss-making competitors, General Motors and Ford, to adapt to demand for smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. The US economic downturn and the credit crunch, which has frozen banks' funding for car purchase loans, sealed its fate.

Chrysler's chief executive, Robert Nardelli, described bankruptcy as a "bittersweet moment", but insisted that a filing for chapter 11 protection would ultimately "breathe new life" into the company. "It's something that will allow us to emerge in a much leaner fashion," said Nardelli, who announced that he would step down when Chrysler emerges from bankruptcy. "We'll be able to leave some assets behind, some liabilities behind, some debt behind."

The US treasury, which has already provided $4bn of emergency loans to the car company, will extend up to $8bn of aid to help it through bankruptcy. Further money will come from the Canadian government.

Although the US government says it will stand behind Chrysler warranties, analysts fear that a stigma attached to bankruptcy will deter car buyers. Brian Bethune, US economist at IHS Global Insight, said: "Bankruptcy will damage the Chrysler brand and that is regrettable. The government has to think carefully about how long they can bleed Chrysler out."

Under the US government's preferred deal, the United Auto Workers union was to take a 55% stake in Chrysler in lieu of cash owed to a healthcare fund. Fiat was to receive 35% for lending its expertise on European-style smaller cars. The Italian manufacturer has committed to build a car at Chrysler's factories and to share distribution networks.

Top banks, including JP Morgan, Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, agreed to write off two-thirds of Chrysler's debt, but a minority of the 46 creditors refused, arguing that trade unions and taxpayers were getting preferential treatment for political motives.

In a statement, the hold-outs, who include Oppenheimer Funds, Perella Weinberg Partners and Stairway Capital said that in its "earnest effort" to secure Chrysler's survival, the government "risked overturning the rule of law and practices that have governed our world-leading bankruptcy code for decades".

On the factory floor, Chrysler's bankruptcy was greeted with despondency. George Windau, a millwright at the company's Jeep factory in Toledo, Ohio, said employees felt their sacrifices in wages and benefits had led to nothing.

"We feel very betrayed," said Windau. "We feel lied to and it goes without saying that we're nervous and upset. The main concern is for the retirees – they're the most vulnerable part of this situation."

A bankruptcy court can force creditors to accept a settlement. But a judge will be obliged to consider alternative proposals from stakeholders, risking a lengthy dispute. The court will also have the power to shred Chrysler's contractual commitments to suppliers and dealers.

Fiat targets GM assets in global auto shakeup

BERLIN — Fiat led a major shakeup of the global auto industry on Thursday, planning to expand its empire over three continents by grabbing parts of General Motors as the US giant risks bankruptcy.

Fiat, which last week won a deal to take a stake in the bankrupt US car maker Chrysler, presented a document to the German government outlining plans including a takeover of GM's German-based subsidiary Opel, reports here said.

It also plans a shopping spree across Europe and beyond, buying Sweden's Saab and Britain's Vauxhall as well as other GM operations in South America and South Africa, according to the document cited by Dow Jones Newswires.

It may shut down sites in Germany, Italy, Britain and Austria if it succeeds in taking over Opel, and aims for annual savings of 1.4 billion euros (1.9 billion dollars) from 2015.

Fiat's plan has faced scepticism so far from the German government and labour groups who fear cut backs. Dow Jones Newswires also cited concern among analysts over Fiat's 6.6 billion-euro debt burden.

The moves in Europe would cost Fiat around seven billion euros over two years, the document estimated.

General Motors, owner of Opel, meanwhile reported a six-billion-dollar first-quarter loss, saying global sales had crashed amid speculation that the troubled US auto giant may soon collapse.

A senior GM executive said the company wanted to seal a deal for its European business "sooner rather than later" and was in talks with "many interested parties" beyond Fiat.

"We're talking to many interested parties in terms of our European business, not solely Fiat," said GM chief financial officer Ray Young.

A Fiat spokesman said earlier that its boss Sergio Marchionne, credited with rescuing the Italian firm from collapse, would become chief executive of Chrysler once the US company's bankruptcy procedure was complete.

Chrysler has agreed to an alliance that will initially give Fiat a 20 percent stake. In return, Fiat will allow Chrysler access to its technology to enable it to produce the smaller, greener cars that are increasingly in demand.

The international financial and economic crisis has forced major changes on the world auto industry. Plummeting demand has crippled many manufacturers and pushed governments into providing massive aid and incentive schemes.

In the United States, the oldest names in the auto industry were humbled by a surge in fuel prices last year, which made their big, gas-guzzling vehicles less attractive to consumers, and by a worldwide economic downturn.

The role of General Motors and Chrysler looks set to decline as production shifts to smaller, more ecology-friendly cars.

Analysts have been sceptical of massive consolidation but agree that auto makers will be forced to cooperate more extensively in research and development and production in order to achieve economies of scale.

Fiat's business dealings took a complex turn on Thursday as the New York Times reported that General Motors was seeking a 30-percent stake in Fiat in exchange for GM operations in Europe and Latin America.

But the paper said Fiat was willing to cede only 10 percent of its equity to obtain the GM subsidiaries.

Debt-ridden GM has taken more than 15 billion dollars in government loans and faces a June 1 deadline to complete a major restructuring plan, failing which it will be forced to follow Chrysler into bankruptcy court.

GM chief executive Fritz Henderson nonetheless remained confident the company could emerge from the flood of red ink. He cited an overhaul plan unveiled last month that would give effective control of GM to the US government and its main union.

Meanwhile German sportscar maker Porsche and giant Volkswagen, the world's second-biggest producer behind Toyota of Japan, on Wednesday unveiled plans for a tie-up, though analysts said the deal still raised a lot of questions.

"It's not really clear how they will construct it," said Juergen Pieper from Metzler Bank.

Following a special meeting of the Porsche family on Wednesday, Porsche and VW gave themselves four weeks to agree on an alliance.

Heavily endebted Porsche would benefit from VW's research and development and access to a vast auto parts purchasing network in addition to VW's hefty cash reserves.

Fiat 500 to hit America soon

The Fiat 500 is coming to America, and it appears to be on a fast track.

Richard Gadeselli, a Fiat spokesman at the automaker’s headquarters in Turin, Italy, sent an e-mail message to confirm plans to take the 500 — voted as Europe’s Car of the Year in 2008 — to Chrysler dealerships just in time for Christmas 2010. That’s barely 18 months away — just around the corner in auto development terms.

A publicity blitz has already started to acquaint Americans with Europe’s hottest small car. The pint-, er, liter-size microcar was the star attraction at an event at the Italian Consulate in New York earlier this week. And the car was seen motoring down Wall Street and having its picture taken next to the bull sculpture in Bowling Green Park.

At the New York auto show in April, before Fiat had agreed to take a stake in Chrysler, Jim Press, Chrysler’s vice chairman, made a grand entrance onto the press conference stage in a Fiat 500.

Mr. Gadeselli said Fiat believed the 500 would appeal to the same sort of buyers who have made the Mini such a success. “It is the same sort of boutique car that we think will sell in good numbers in the U.S.,” he said.

Although Fiat and Chrysler will be collaborating on several vehicles, the 500 is the only one that will wear the Fiat badge in the United States. Fiat has previously announced plans to reintroduce its Alfa Romeo brand in America by 2011, including the 8C sports car and MiTo hatchback.

“Chrysler will not be producing Fiat models, but new Chrysler models based on Fiat technology (platforms, drivetrain, suspension) clothed in a pure Chrysler style,” Mr. Gadeselli explained. Chrysler will design and engineer up to six of its own small or midsize vehicles based on Fiats.

“There is a misconception that Chrysler is going to build cars like the Fiat Bravo and just stick a Chrysler badge on it,” he added. “Actually, the vehicle architectures will be based on our stuff, and there will be some shared powertrains. But the vehicles will be U.S. vehicles, designed for U.S. customers by a U.S. company.”

The good, the odd, the testy in eventful week

Italian pride

The most welcome surprise in Chrysler-Fiat's 5-year plan?

The nifty little 500 city car will proudly wear a Fiat badge when it goes on sale in Chrysler dealerships in early 2011.

Widespread reports said the cool little car would have no brand name, selling simply as "the 500." Conventional wisdom held that Americans would not buy a Fiat, scared off by the dreadful quality that ran the automaker out of the United States a generation ago.

Please. Most of us can barely remember who won the World Series last year.

Fiat has a proud history of offering small cars with style, innovation and value. Dropping the brand name would make the 500 an orphan on arrival, the automotive equivalent of cafeteria "mystery meat." Fiat's name ties the car to a heritage of Italian design that stretches from the Trevi Fountain to Giorgio Armani.
The answer is ... Ridgeline?

The oddest revelation in Chrysler's overview of upcoming new vehicles came when product-planning boss Joe Veltri rhapsodized over the unibody midsize pickup he hopes Chrysler will build in 2011.

Chrysler plans to drop the Dodge Dakota midsize pickup that year. The new Ram truck-only brand may replace it with a pickup built on a car-type unibody chassis, Veltri said. He promised the vehicle would offer appealing and unique features, but unibody pickups have a 30-year history of failing to win American buyers that stretches from the 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit pickup to today's under-performing Honda Ridgeline.

Unibody pickups offer better fuel economy than conventional trucks, but they can't tow or haul as much. Dodge's proposed truck-ette faces an uphill climb if it doesn't change that equation.

Alfa-less soup

Enthusiasts looking for details on Alfa Romeo's return to the United States left Wednesday's Chrysler-Fiat briefing disappointed. The legendary sport-luxury brand, which Fiat owns, barely rated a footnote. That's despite widespread reports that Alfa will get one or two Chrysler-based vehicles, build at least two additional vehicles in Chrysler's North American assembly plants and import other cars like the MiTo subcompact sport coupe from Europe.

Chrysler-Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne brushed off Alfa's absence. Potential Alfa production of 60,000 to 70,000 vehicles a year at Chrysler plants is so small it's virtually irrelevant to Chrysler's success, he said, adding that the brand has yet to convince him it has a plan to make money in North America.

Alfa's return also relies heavily on a couple of cars the brand has not revealed yet -- the Milano and Giulia sport sedans. It's likely Alfa will unveil them at events where it doesn't have to share the spotlight with Chrysler's turnaround strategy.
Pandering, German style

Anybody who thinks American politicians or unions are uniquely guilty of treating their constituents like simpletons wasn't paying attention to the German reaction when GM said it would restructure Opel rather than sell 55% of it to a Canadian-Russian consortium.

Based on the outraged reaction -- which included walkouts at GM's German plants -- you'd think Magna-Sberbank promised to hire thousands of new workers. In truth, the Russo-Canadian partners planned slightly more job cuts than the 10,000 GM says it will make to return Opel to profitability.

GM's name is dirt in Germany right now. German politicians parlayed fear over job losses into months of feckless campaign promises. Union leaders who chafe under American ownership ignored economic reality and blamed GM for all Opel's problems. Opel employees and the German public understandably concluded that GM ran Opel into the ground and only new owners can save it.

The truth is far different, but GM faces a major hurdle undoing the damage and convincing German workers and consumers to support Opel.

There's no time to waste. GM must salvage Opel's image -- and its own -- before the damage becomes irreparable.

Fiat India To Launch A Small Car By 2012

Fiat has announced that it will enter mass car segment (A2) and the company's R&D teams are very busy working out in designing this compact hatchback to be launched in 2012.

According to Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, President and CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Ltd (FIAL), Fiat will launch the new small car to compete with Hyundai's i10, Maruti's A Star and Chevrolet Beat. The upcoming car will be powered by a 1 L engine and Fiat may offer this small car in both petrol as well as diesel options.


Earlier the speculations were that, Fiat might bring the new Uno, which is produced in the Fiat's Brazil plant. But, the Fiat's President ruled this out and said, the new small car has nothing to do with its existing models, hence we get a fresh Fiat faced compact car!

Interestingly, according to officials, Fiat may bring the premium hatchback Bravo (as CBU) to India due to the favourable rates of Euro vs Rupee right now. Fiat recently launched its Grande Punto 90HP premium hatchback, priced at Rs. 6.79 lakh (Delhi).

Many auto majors like Hyundai and Honda are all ready to launch a small car in the next couple of years owing to strong demand in the domestic market as well as in the ASEAN region, where these companies can export the cars produced in India.

Fiat Linea T-Jet the latest car with Turbo Petrol Engine

Previously we have seen that Indian cars and turbo petrol engines werent much of friends however with time this myth is changing too with Skoda Octavia vRS being the very first turbo petrol launched in India with a 1.8 litre motor and pumped out 150 Bhp.

Thus compared to other other motors then, it definitely yielded out 60 Bhp more. However it turned to be a favorite for very few people as more in India demand more lie per litre and it sold much less compared to the fuel efficient variants.


Skoda soon then turned out to produce another new turbo petro variant in India, the Skoda Laura with 1.8 TSI mill and the engine was borrowed from Volkswagen. Laura turned out be a favorite among car lovers and it did good business in the country. Soon Fiat too decided to launch its turbo petrol engine and came out with the Fiat Linea, a stunning Italian car, highly admirable and looks more expensive than it actually is. However its 90 BHP FIRE petrol engine made it a slow car compared to Honda city’s i-VTEC mill.

It was not long after the recent introduction of the punto 90 HP variant Fiat india is all set to unveil a significantly higher powered version of the linea. Chrispened the Linea T-Jet, this version will see an introduction of a new 1.4 litre turbo charged petrol engine making 118 bhp. the T-Jet will b the only car in its category to sport a turbo chagred petrol engine and it will take on segments leader, honda city. The new 1.4 litre motor will be coupled with a hi speed manual trnasmission this motor is said to have a good amount of low-end torque which gives better fuel economy.

The T-Jet is said to include additional features which are not to be found in the current linea, such as leather seats , hill holder assist( HBA), rain-sensing wipers and 16 inch alloy wheels. This car have been launched on oct 8th. Sales of the linea are about a quarter of the city, which sold 4251 units in august but with the festive season around the corner, fiat seems to be looking at a surge in sales number.

The Fiat T-Jet will be fuel efficient, just the right choice for the India customers and be a boon to Fiat just like i-VTEC to Honda. Besides this is a solid built, comfortable car and infact the only car to offer a rear sunblind. This might just encourage India car manufacturers to produce more cars with turbo petrol engines compared to modern common rail diesels which are fuel efficient as well. So one can just keep an eye on the upcoming cars with turbo petrol engines to be launched in India and who knows, Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI could just be the next one ?

Fiat 500 Bicolore debuts at B.M. Show

Just days ago, Fiat rolled out one of several upcoming special edition 500 models. The new 500 Bicolore, pictured above, made its grand debut at the Bologna Motor Show. Details are limited, but as its name implies, the Bicolore model features a two-tone paint job in candy apple red and white. Fiat finishes off the changes to the Bicolore by fitting it with unique alloy wheels and trimming out the interior with some dazzling chrome touches.


Fiat describes the Bicolore as, "an unprecedented combination that recalls the retro world of '50s American cars and pop art." The automaker continues, calling the special edition 500 a model "that celebrates the car's more eco-friendly and sporty spirits." Okay, that statement by the automaker seems valid as the Bicolore is powered by one of Fiat's most fuel efficient engines available; the turbocharged two-cylinder 0.9-liter TwinAir, which cranks out 85 horsepower.

The Bicolore is one of several special edition 500 models that Fiat will launch in the coming months, so stay tuned for more.

New 'Baby Fiat' by Fiat India soon!

Fiat India is all set to launch the New Fiat 500, also called Baby Fiat a two-door five-seater car in India at a starting price of Rs13 lakh.

The Baby Fiat re entered the European market after a gap of 33 years in July last year and has since then become a big seller.

Fiat India plans to launch both Fiat 500 and the Fiat Bravo (a large and stylish hatchback) in an image building exercise in India and hopes that the cars will set the way for future launches like the Fiat Linea sedan and the Grande Punto hatchback due at dealer showrooms in September and December 2008 respectively company officials said.

The Fiat 500 comes in a choice of three engines two of which are petrol engines while the third is an advanced turbo-diesel. The diesel variant is claimed to offer a great mileage of almost 25km / litre. The petrol 1.2-litre version will sport a 69bhp engine while the 1.4- litre variant has a peppier 100bhp powerhouse under the bonnet.

Unlike the Baby Fiat of 33 years ago, which was a basic car much like the M800 or Nano, the base 1.2-litre model of the current Fiat 500 will have ABS brakes, air conditioning, power windows, locks and steering, as well as a six-speaker MP3 capable audio system and seven airbags.

With a length of 355cm Baby has extensive safety features like seven airbags including a knee-bag. Apart from this all Baby Fiat models feature the electronic stability programme - yet another luxury car feature.

All these make for an extremely safe car that has already received a five star rating in EuroNCAP tests.

In India Fiat is targeting celebrities and those wishing to make a style statement for the car.

A company spokesperson said, "We expect the Baby Fiat to be a hit with the celebrity circuit and trendsetters in the metros since they are aware of the value a genuine lifestyle statement the 500 makes."

Fiat India will bring in the car through the CBU (completely built unit) route, which effectively almost doubles its price.

The 500 comes with several engine options, and we can expect the 100 bhp 1400cc petrol as well as the 75 bhp 1300cc MultiJet diesel that's already seen in the Suzuki Swift in India.

The Fiat 500 received the coveted European Car of the Year 2008 award and has also become a big seller so much so that Fiat had to declare a one year waiting period for delivery of the car.

In the UK alone Fiat expects to sell 18,000 units of the Baby Fiat which is an impressive increase of more than 30 per cent on overall Fiat sales over last year.

Globally the car competes with BMW's retro styled Mini and Volkswagen's Beetle. Incidentally the German carmaker is planning to bring its Mini in India too priced at around Rs 20 lakh. This may make the Fiat 500 look better though for its celeb target audience, a higher price may give more snob value.

Reports coming out in European press suggest that the car's popularity is mainly due to its cute and cuddly looks. The good part is that looks are backed by a good product which gives an excellent ride quality and distinctly sporty feel to the overall driving experience.

Fiat Car Reviews - 2008 Fiat Car Models

Fiat cars have a traditional niche in the Indian market. The Italian Fiat entered India in 1951 through Premier Automobiles, Bombay. Fiat launched the Fiat Uno in 1982 and the Fiat Palio in 1997. In 2007, Fiat Auto tied up with Tata Motors for a manufacturing plant near Pune to increase its supply capacity. Fiat Auto aims to bring two new models, the Fiat Grande Punto and the Fiat Linea Sedan into the market by 2008. Cars from Fiat

2008 Fiat Car Models in India:

Fiat Palio (Hatchback)

The Fiat Palio Stile is it's world car that is based on the 174 platform developed on the lines of a design by the Idea Institute of Turin, Italy. This car has brilliant aerodynamic features that give it a low drag coefficient of just 0.33 CD. Its exteriors exude clean lines and fresh styling. Fiat's range extends from Fiat cars costing a bit above rupees three lakhs fifty thousand to Fiat cars costing a bit above rupees four lakhs. Palio variants include

• Palio 1.1 SL Stile (Petrol) 
  The Palio Stile 1.1 SL is Fiat's entry range model that features Fiat's revolutionary 1.1 litre FIRE petrol engine that delivers optimum performance and torque thereby delivering excellent power and acceleration. This variant has a showroom price of around Rs. 3.6 lakhs and on-road price of around Rs. 3.95 lakhs, which is inclusive of all charges such as insurance, octroi, RTO, etc.
  
• Palio 1.1 SLE Stile (Petrol) 
  
  The Palio Stile 1.1 SLE is Fiat's mid range model in the 1.1 Stile series with midrange features and aesthetics. It features Fiat's revolutionary 1.1 litre FIRE petrol engine that delivers optimum performance and torque thereby delivering excellent power and acceleration. New cars in this series have a showroom price ranging from around Rs. 3.72 lakhs to around Rs. 4.17 lakhs inclusive of all charges like insurance, octroi, RTO, etc. Car prices vary with the dealer's location.
  
• Palio Stile 1.1 SLX (Petrol) 
  
  The Palio Stile 1.1 SLE is Fiat's top range model in the 1.1 Stile series with top edge features and aesthetics. The Palio Stile 1.1 SLE is now available at a showroom price of around Rs. 3.93 lakhs with an on road price of around Rs. 4.4 lakhs including accompanying charges.
  
• Palio Stile 1.6 Stile Sport (Petrol) 
  
  The Palio 1.6 Stile Sport is Palio's sporty model with loads of sporty features. Fiat's remarkable 1.6L four cylinder DOHC petrol engine delivers awesome performance and torque thereby delivering brilliant power and acceleration. At the showroom, this car costs around Rs. 4.34 lakhs with an on-road price of around Rs. 4.9 lakhs. This includes standard ancillary charges also.

Until the recent avalanche of new car makes and brands, Fiat cars were a common sight both in urban and rural India. The Fiat brand continued to be available after 1952 when most other foreign car brands left India, and Fiat cars enjoyed a niche without competition. The re-entry of other foreign car brands in India has made Fiat change its strategy, gear up Fiat's production capacity, and hit the market with its four Fiat Palio variants while other variants are in the pipeline.

Infibeam.com highly visited, virtual car showroom of Fiat Car in India - Find Reviews, Research, Price, Specification, Features, Bank Finance Options, Interiors Exteriors Digital Photos.

Put your Request to Buy Online or Free Test Drive for any Fiat 2008 Cars - Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai.

Fiat Ritmo now in Australian showrooms

Following its Australian unveiling at the Brisbane International Motor Show earlier this year, the all-new Fiat Ritmo is now in Australia's Fiat dealerships, providing a new level of performance, style and Italian flair in the small car market.

"Along with the new Fiat 500, the Ritmo redefines Fiat's position in the Australian market," says Edward Butler, General Manager for Fiat cars in Australia. "In a market sector that rarely offers customers cars that offer styling flair, the Fiat Ritmo is a breath of fresh air that makes a statement as strong as Punto and the new 500 in their market sectors.

"The Ritmo's style is supported by design and technology of real integrity, from its five star EuroNCAP crash test rating to its choice of two of the most advanced engines available on the Australian market, as well as the Blue&Me communications system a joint venture between Fiat and Microsoft that is the benchmark for automotive telematics."

Fiat launches new Fiat 500 1.3 JTD Lounge in Australia

Just months after its Australian launch, Fiat is adding a new variant to the award-winning 500 range with arrival of the Fiat 500 1.3 JTD Lounge, matching market-leading fuel economy of just 4.2 litres per 100 km with the top trim and equipment package to produce a unique combination of luxury, economy and chic style.

"The launch of this car in Australia is a clear sign of marked change in the market's attitude to diesel," says Edward Butler, General Manager for Fiat cars in Australia. "Diesel is no longer associated just with basic, economy motoring. Australian customers increasingly want the economy and environmental ability of diesel matched to a chic, luxurious car and cars don't come much more stylish and chic than the 500 or, with the top of the line Lounge equipment package, luxurious. This new model is a response to demands from Australian customers for a range-topping specification 500 with the advanced Turbo Diesel engine."

Driveaway a deal with Fiat Punto in April

All versions of the Fiat Punto, including the newly-launched turbocharged Punto T-Jet, are available at 'driveaway', no more to pay prices in April, which means that the stylish and fun to drive Italian is available from $19,990* on the road, with savings of up to $3,000.

The Fiat Punto is available with two trim levels, a choice of four engines and two body styles, three and five door. All are well equipped with ABS anti-lock braking, cruise control, remote central locking, front, side and curtain airbags, electric front windows, Air Conditioning, a CD player with steering wheel controls, electric operated and heated door mirrors, Dualdrive electric power steering and Follow Me Home headlamps included in the price.

Fiat 500 celebrates its first birthday

The award-winning Fiat 500, which has received countless honours this year, adds an extra important one this weekend – its first birthday celebrations.

Although it only arrived in the UK in January this year, the popular supermini was first launched in Italy on 4 July 2007, and the Fiat Group is celebrating its anniversary with a series of bold, elaborate parties across the world, including the UK.

The date of this landmark occasion is especially significant as last year’s Italian launch of the car was exactly 50 years after the original introduction of Dante Giacosa’s classic post-war 500.

The UK party, hosted by TV presenter Alex Zane, is called the Fiat 500 PicNic and takes place at Alexandra Park, North London. It’s designed to be a traditional British summer outdoor gathering, but with a special 500 twist.

With invitations extended to more than 5,000 specially-invited Fiat 500 drivers and potential owners, this Saturday’s (5 July) PicNic initiative, which was conceived to share the passion and emotion of the huge Fiat 500 community, will feature live music, delicious Italian food and drink, outdoor games, big-screen sports coverage and special ‘chill-out’ zones for participants.

The London event is part of a series of global parties celebrating the hugely successful first year of Fiat’s iconic city car. Athens, Budapest, Copenhagen, London, Milan, Munich, Palermo, Paris, Rome, Rotterdam, Tokyo, Valencia, Hel, Liège, Zurich, and Cape Town are the chosen cities that, either in parks or on beaches, will welcome thousands of people brought together by the new car.

Music, art, and fun are the ingredients which will guarantee a successful event involving new Fiat 500 owners and those who are still waiting to get one (222,000 have been ordered so far).

“This is a global initiative that we in Britain are delighted to be involved in,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “It is everything that the new Fiat 500 stands for – fun, excitement, freedom and the knack of bringing people together in a great atmosphere – and I am sure the event will be a great success.”

The London party will feature four special themed zones – Energy, Entertainment, Chill and Children. The Energy Zone offers outdoor games, fun races and a volleyball competition, while in Entertainment there will be live music, jugglers, a giant screen and Fiat 500 interactive car configurators to try.

The Chill Zone is designed for relaxation with Tai Chi, head massages and hammocks all available, and the Children’s Zone will feature face painting, street theatre and games.

Fiat Linea wins 'Car of the year' & 'Midsize car of the year' award

Fiat India Automobiles Limited turned a new leaf with the stylish Fiat Linea winning the 'Car of the year' award by UTVi Autocar. The Fiat Linea was also awarded the 'Midsize car of the year' by both UTVi Autocar and CNBC Overdrive.
Fiat Linea battled the exhaustive list of parameters and was chosen as 'the outstanding contenders' among many other top contenders. The Fiat Linea came out victorious among tough competitors like the New Honda City, Maruti Swift Dzire, Skoda Fabia, Hyundai i20, Toyota Corolla Altis and many more for the most awaited and acclaimed awards of the year organised by the leading Indian automotive magazines.
This has been one of the biggest milestones achieved by Fiat in India and the success is well deserved. The Fiat Linea is equipped with sophisticated features in its segment, has certainly raised the bar for the mid-segment in India. The Fiat Linea added one more feather to its cap when it was selected as the ‘BBC TopGear Best Mid-size Saloon 2008’ award by TopGear.
On the receipt of the awards Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Ltd said, "The awards are recognition of the joint effort put in by teams at Ranjangaon Plant, support departments at Turin and Tata Motors in Mumbai. They have worked relentlessly to bring this Italian Masterpiece on Indian Roads".
Courtesy: Fiat India