You read it first on MotorBeam. Fiat has already made it official about its plans to launch an updated version of the Linea in 2014. The company will re-position the current Linea as the Linea Classic while the new model will be positioned slightly higher. The facelifted Fiat Linea is already on sale in certain parts of the world and now our sources inform us that the company has started testing the new Linea with the 1.6-litre Multijet diesel engine in India. The vehicle will soon be all over Pune streets as road testing operations have commenced.
So what happens to the current Linea. Fiat will continue to sell the current Linea with the same set of engines. The vehicle might be offered in lower trims only. The new Linea will get the much awaited 1.6-litre Multijet diesel engine which produces 105 BHP of power and 290 Nm of torque. The 1.6-litre Multijet 2 diesel engine produces the same power output but an additional 30 Nm of torque (320 Nm). We are hoping Fiat gives the Linea the 1.6-litre Multijet 2 diesel engine in India as it is not only faster (0-100 km/hr in less than 11.5 seconds) but is more frugal too.
Other changes to the Fiat Linea facelift include an updated exterior with new chrome highlights and a significantly updated interior with an all new dashboard comprising of a new centre console, new AC vents, new instrument cluster and a new steering wheel. There is no reason why Fiat can’t localise the engine extensively and if the automaker is able to successfully price the new Linea bang against the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Vento and upcoming new Honda City, the company can expect sales to increase drastically.
Fiat is on the right path and is setting up its own independent dealership network. This along with brand building operations will make more people consider Fiat cars, which will in turn increase sales, boost dealers morale (keeping them motivated) thereby ensuring good service which will lead to positive word of mouth and further increase in sales, hence improving resale value. And that is how Fiat India plans to get back with a bang.
A 1.6-litre diesel engine on the Fiat Punto is enough to blow away the upcoming Volkswagen Polo 1.6 GT TDI. Don’t you think?
