I am sure there are many reasons for people to own a Ferrari car. What about the consumers who think they can’t afford one in their lifetime. The savior for them is FIAT which we call in our friend’s circles as (Ferrari In Affordable Transport), which holds major stakes in Ferrari. The awesome news is : Fiat is coming out with this fantastic sporty model, the Fiat Avventura !
Good things : Time tested 1.3 litre diesel engine, Ride and build quality, handling dynamics, Stunning Design, Stylish looks, High ground clearance
Not so good things : Resale value, Niggling issues, after sales service, spare parts availability
Utility Vehicles:
Sports Utility Vehicle or SUV finds big attraction with most consumers. Consumers feel that the suv size is a measure of safety since it’s larger and heavier, room for more people, carrying extra luggage, off-road purpose and their strong road presence. Driving a SUV is often associated with the idea of macho, tough and independent person. At the same time it has its drawbacks like expensive to buy, fuel guzzler, expensive to maintain, hard time in parking them in crowded places. Here comes the idea of mini-suv/compact suv/crossover, where it combines the benefits of suv and cars. This in the recent time has runaway success in India and brands like Renault duster, Ford Ecosport is perfect example. In near future Fiat India will join this club by launching its rugged outdoor styled crossover Fiat Avventura. The crossover which was unveiled at 2014 Auto Expo, Delhi.
Fiat Avventura at Auto Expo:
Specs and Features:
Fiat Avventura is based on the same platform of Fiat Punto, which will enable Fiat to share parts and components. The length of the vehicle will be within 4 meter segment to get benefits on excise duty. It will be launched in both petrol and diesel versions. Petrol versions are expected in 1.2 litre and 1.4 litre units. Diesel version is 1.3-litre multijet engine, which will deliver 93ps and 209NM of torque. It will sport the new headlight design, projector headlamps and redesigned front grille. The front grille which will also be seen in the 2014 Fiat Punto facelift. Ground clearance in Fiat Avventura is increased to 200mm and fitted with wide 225 tyres around 17 inch alloys. Spare wheel is not fitted with the hatch though it appears to be, which is fitted on a swing arm. Side profile is designed with plastic cladding on the wheel arches and door. The interior console and dashboard looks more premium with its dual tone color. The other features include steering mounted audio and call function controls, armrest for driver, rear AC vents, power windows, power steering and vanity mirrors. The safety aspects include dual airbags, engine immobilizer and Anti-locking braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD). Front wheels will be equipped with ventilated disc brakes and rear wheels with drum brakes. Considering the off road nature of the vehicle Fiat Avventura is fitted with roof rails, navigation system etc.
Competitor Vehicles: Ford Ecosport, Toyota Etios cross, Volkswagen cross polo
Bottom-line:
Fiat products are better in terms of technology, engine but few factors as we mentioned above has affected their sales in the past. Things have started to improve recently as Fiat India has put in strategy to increase the number of its products offerings, expanding the dealership network and increasing the spares part availability. This will help them to build their brand image in a better way. Fiat India website has made announcement that Fiat Avventura will be launched soon. Fiat has crafted it in a manner it will sure be a head turner. Fiat Avventura launch is crucial to set the path for the future launches, considering the company’s plans to bring the iconic jeep brand from Chrysler to India.
Visit Fiat India Website: http://www.fiat-india.com