Fiat's new launches for 2014

Fiat plans to launch its third offering in the Indian market - the Avventura, by October 2014. The Avventura is a Punto Evo underneath its skin with exterior modifications such as a rugged body cladding, bigger wheels and a rear mounted spare wheel to give the vehicle an SUV-ish appearance. Fiat wishes to capitalize on the growing popularity of compact SUVs within the country and this vehicle will be a direct competitor to cars like the VW Polo Cross and Etios Cross.

Fiat's fourth launch - Abarth 500 is scheduled to hit the showrooms before the end of this year. The Abarth 500 will be sold as a completely built unit, with plans to localize the assembly later in 2015. This vehicle will introduce the Abarth brand to India and is expected to be powered by a 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine producing 137 bhp.

For a very long duration, the company has been banking on merely 2 vehicles in its product line in India and rather focused on strengthening its dealership and service network. With 116 showrooms spread across 95 cities, Fiat hopes that the new Punto Evo, soon to be launched Avventura and the festive season will increase footfall to Fiat showrooms resulting in sales volumes.

Source: Autocar Professional