Fiat has plans of making a fresh comeback into the Indian automobile market. For this, the company is launching its two new hatchbacks, Fiat 500 and Fiat Bravo, in early 2008. As of now, Fiat has not decided to assemble the cars in the country. Rather, it would be importing them directly from Italy, leading to quite a high price. However, the main aim of the company is not to generate huge sales, but to create an impact. It aims at making its presence felt in India, after the launch of Linea and Grande Punto.
Fiat 500, launched exactly 50 years after the original Cinquecento, is a very popular two-door car in Italy. Though the Italian company in not looking forward to recreating this success, it definitely has plans to make it the style icon of 2008 in India. The potential clientele of the hatchback will comprise of Bollywood stars and celebrities, for whom it is the looks that matters the most. The fuel-efficient motors and compact dimensions of Fiat 500 will also give it the tag of being environment-friendly, thus adding to its appeal.
The buyers can customize the car, by choosing from a range of over a hundred accessories and three engines. Those looking for safety can take solace in its seven airbags and top-class five-star Euro NCAP crash rating. Its price, after all the taxes and duties, is expected to be between Rs 10 and 15 lakh. Talking about Fiat Bravo, the car is all set to put the Indian roads on fire. The five-door hatchback scores on looks, performance as well as features. It is expected to have 148bhp, 1.4-litre T-jet petrol version & 118bhp, 1.9 diesel version.
The car is expected to cruise at the highest speed of 200km/h, all the time ensuring comfort with its stylish interiors. Bravo is all about space, comfort and luxury that match premium saloon car standards. MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam axle at the rear ensure a smooth drive. For safety concerns, there is five-star Euro NCAP crash rating. With a price of somewhere around Rs 20 lakh, Fiat is expecting to cash in on the snob value of the car. Whether Fiat manages to gain a foothold in India or not, we still have to see.
