Fiat – Page 10 – Automobiles Review

Suzuki Swift DDiS MPG Marathon

Apparently, pushing the boundaries of fuel efficiency is a thing these days. Motoring journalist Donn Anderson recently took a Suzuki Swift DDiS (diesel) on a journey with Auckland (the Northern part of the North island of New Zealand) as a starting point and an end point at the bottom of it, in Wellington. No petrol stations were harmed during the trip. In fact he turned around and started for home afterwords. The fuel tank came 60 km short before finishing the whole epic journey.

The total distance covered turned out to be 1,240 km (764 miles). The fuel tank has a capacity of 42 liters so that would mean an average fuel consumption of 3.36 liters/100 km or 83.4 mpg. Wherever possible, Mr Anderson tried to keep the car cursing between 50 and 60 mph and would have managed even more miles if it wasn’t for the torrential rains and high winds that he encountered during the marathon.

This isn’t the first time a Suziki Swift DDiS proves stunning frugality. Last year, in the UK a Swift 1.3 achieved 86.4 mpg while a second one came close with 84.6. The records were taken from the local MPG Marathon.

The DDiS engine is actually a JTD Fiat engine in disguise. It’s 1.3 liters of displacement give an output of 74 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque. As proven, the mpg figure is bigger than the power output. Eco-minded people can now celebrate with some organic waffles.

Source: Suzuki

May 23, 2012

SR Auto Project Denso Fiat 500 Prima Edizione

We really hate it when some tuning houses decide to put some flashy wheels on an already appealing car and call it a project. So when we caught a glimpse of this Fiat 500 Prima Edizione (limited edition) touched by SR Auto, we rolled our eyes. “Here’s another one… what’s it called?” Project Denso they say.

Okay, so it has a set of lightweight Work Meister S1R wheels. Massive two-piece forged things, finished in matte black and line with some bronze. The Fiat’s wheel arches, as we can clearly see, are struggling for air. At this point, we hurried to conclude: “Okay, so that’s about it, right?”

Well, it turned out that’s not the full story. Some behind the curtain work has also been done. We should have guessed that one – lower springs by H&R, good for handling we’ve been told.

But even deeper underneath the shell, a K&N filter system works its magic to provide a bit of extra boost from the air coming in. Further down the road we also find a Magnaflow cat back exhaust system that releases any flow restriction that might have been present on the standard Prima Edizione Fiat 500.

So then, Project Denso it is – 100% fun content (from concentrate).

SR Auto Project Denso Fiat 500 Prima Edizione

Source: SR Auto

May 10, 2012

2012 Fiat Punto Van brings more elegance in the Van range

2012 Fiat Punto Van comes to replace the Grande Punto Van in the brands Professional range of models. In addition to this it carries a lot of improvements compared to the preceding model.

The new Fiat Van model provides a load capacity of 1.0 m3 and a payload of 520 kg. And in addition it features external design modifications with fully coloured front and rear bumpers which give it more sophisticated look.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that this Van actually successfully combines the exterior style of both the Grande Punto and Punto Evo cars.

Regarding the interior of the Punto, it includes new sportier seat fabrics. On the SX version there can be found a new dashboard with soft touch materials and an elegant design.

As a standard equipment for all versions of this model are include the ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), BAS (Brake Assistance System), remote central locking, electric front windows, electrically adjustable and heated body coloured mirrors, trip computer, driver and passenger airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, electric power steering, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

More importantly, 2012 Fiat Punto Van will come with one diesel engine – the 1.3 MultiJet II diesel, in three levels of power:

• 75hp (55 kW) / 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm)

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 112 g/km CO2 emissions

• 85hp (62 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

80.7 MPG (3.5 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 90 g/km CO2 emissions

• 95hp (70 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 110 g/km CO2 emissions

The Start&Stop function comes as a standard only on the 1.3 MultiJet II 85hp and 95hp versions. With this function the fuel consumption is lowered to 80.7 MPG and the CO2 emissions to 90 g/km.

The Punto Van will be available in three different pastel colours: White, Dark Blue and Red, thus being able to deliver even more style and elegance to the load-bearing range of vehicles.

The starting price of the 2012 Fiat Punto Van is £10,990.

Source: Fiat

April 24, 2012

2013 Fiat Viaggio makes first appearance in China

2013 Fiat Viaggio is going to make its world premiere at the Beijing International Auto Show in less than two weeks.

The brand has just released the firs official teaser images of the new vehicle, which as we can sense is going to be a absolutely new model.

The Viaggio is in fact the first Fiat-Chrysler twin project. Its aim is bring to life an all-new world class vehicle in China’s compact sedan segment.

The new Fiat Viaggio sedan delivers high levels of refinement and craftsmanship. In addition to this it offers one-of-a-kind blend of power, fuel efficiency, sophistication, technology and vehicle dynamics.

And all this comes in the beautiful exterior design of the Italian style.

Furthermore, 2013 Viaggio is four-door, five- passenger and is based on the compact US wide architecture. The same architecture for instance is the base of the already popular 2013 Dodge Dart.

In its turn, this particular architecture is derived from the Compact architecture initially developed for best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

In particular, the Fiat is 4,679mm in length, 1,850mm in overall width and with a 2,708mm wheelbase.

2013 Fiat Viaggio will be the only car in its segment to deliver sophisticated turbo-charged engines.

For example, the 1.4L Tjet enjine in both 120 hp (88 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW) outputs is matched to either a 5-speed manual transmission or the latest Dual Dry Clutch Transmission developed by Fiat Powertrain.

The exterior of the vehicle has a timeless style and clean-surfaces. It is expressive and exciting and blends fluid and curvaceous forms in perfect proportions.

Of course, it carries the contemporary Fiat “face” which connects it to the unmistakable brand style.

Furthermore, the rear tail lamps with refined LED lights give the Viaggio the stance of superior quality.

The first examples of the 2013 Fiat Viaggio will be produced starting in July and will go on sale in the third quarter of this year.

Source: Fiat

April 13, 2012

2012 Abarth 500 – Price

The 2012 Abarth 500 is one of the best value for money cars, which you can buy in the UK. It is in third place after Audi Q5 and Skoda Yeti with an average resale value of 60% of its list price, based on 3-year or 30 000 miles use.

It shows that Abarth’s plan to hold off depreciation as much as possible is working. Since its launch in July 2008, the performance arm of Fiat Group Automobiles has quickly established itself to be a desirable brand that people want to own and drive; not short-term nor highly discounted.

“Right from the start we had the plan to build in long-term value to the Abarth brand,” commented Ivan Gibson, head of Abarth in the UK.

“A sustainable cost of ownership is something we have always been able to offer Abarth drivers and, add to that the fact that the Abarth 500 is a timeless and highly attractive car, it’s no wonder that it has done so well in this important research.”, he added.

The Abarth 500 is powered by a 1.4 liter 16V turbocharged petrol with 135HP (99 kW) at 5500RPM and 206Nm (152 lb-ft) at 3000RPM in sport mode. The engine is EURO 5 compliant and returns 43.4 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of 155 g/km CO2.

The 2012 Abarth 500 is priced from £14 461 OTR for the 1.4 T-Jet model.

Source: Fiat

March 23, 2012

2012 Fiat 500: The “Baby” Commercial [VIDEO]

Fiat has just launched a commercial to promote their new 2012 Fiat 500. The ad is genuinely refreshing and definitely will make you smile at the end of the working week. So, enjoy it! The new spot is named “Baby” and at the end of the video you will grasp why. In general the ad expresses fully Fiat’s philosophy. In short, it is all about “discovery through passionate self-expression”. Fiat always stands behind the idea of encouraging people to be in charge of their lives, live confidently and celebrate the smallest of things with infectious excitement. Well, the iconic Fiat 500 (or Cinquecento) has embodied all of this. It is a small car that lives big, and more importantly expresses the Italian way of living: rich in emotions, but as well rooted in an abundant heritage. The Cinquecento has modern simple design, which blends form and function. What you might don’t know already is that the model has unquestionable popularity, because of Fiat’s great ability to deliver unmatched personalization options with advanced solutions in terms of quality, engine and passenger comfort.

httpv://youtu.be/9CRKrkHGTRM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: FIAT

March 16, 2012

Wide range of Accessories for 2012 Fiat Panda

Thank to all the new and wide range of Fiat Panda accessories now the customers have the unique to customize their car and personalize it even further. The new range of accessories was introduced for the first time at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. To go further into details, over 70 products were presented there, and they are being collected in three main clusters: Customization, Utility and Comfort.

Of course, every single item was designed with the initial aim to increase comfort, increase enjoyment of leisure activities and improve the quality of life on board for all customers. These exclusive accessories perfectly suit the new car and fully respect its technical, style and mechanical features. Moreover, the Customisation area includes many original products for the new Panda.

For example: three series of body stickers, 15” diamond-shape alloy rims, lengthwise roof bars, door mirror covers and alloy hub caps in four different colours (silver, beige, red and purple), steel tyre valve caps sporting the Fiat logo and carpet, velvet or rubber mats with three different graphic designs.

They are all in perfect harmony with the new 2012 Fiat Panda. In addition, Fiat Panda accessories feature new ignition key with interchangeable protective covers in three different colours (red, silver and beige) – of which one luminescent – can be replaced in an instant to customise the key to match your mood depending on the day. Next, the Utility area features accessories designed to make short and long trips pleasant and comfortable experiences. For confidently tackling city traffic the new Panda accessory range includes “Blue&Me™ TomTom © 2”.

The safety ad security of the passengers are guaranteed by a full range of child seats, anti-theft systems, cargo nets and passenger compartment separation grilles for carrying animals, parking sensors and anti-theft wheel bolts. At last, the Comfort package is designed to satisfy the needs of people who want to customise their cars.

For example, the catalogue includes features for enhancing one’s leisure time, like roof-fitted cargo boxes (360 or 490 litres) and handy protective boot liner. There are bars for carrying bicycles or snowboards/skis (3 or 4 pairs), kayaks and windsurfing boards in total safety, with a touch of extra style and originality.

Additionally, Fiat and Mopar have created two packs: Techno and Flex. Both offer a set of optional equipment and accessories at a convenient price. The first pack includes the new Blue&Me™ TomTom © navigator system, the useful Blue&Me™ system, a “My port” multimedia port and controls on the steering wheel. The Flex pack instead enhances the outstanding flexibility of the Panda, and includes a functional driver’s seat back pocket, 5-seat version type-approval, seat folding to form a table, rear seat with 60/40 split backrest and cargo box.

List of Fiat Panda’s main accessories

Color wheel center caps: MATT Silver wheel center caps, MATT Beige wheel center caps, MATT Red wheel center caps, MATT Violet wheel center caps;
Color mirror caps: MATT Red mirror caps, MATT Red mirror caps, MATT Silver mirror caps, MATT Beige mirror caps, MATT Violet;
Color OE bars: MATT Red OE longitudinal bars, MATT Silver OE longitudinal bars, MATT Beige OE longitudinal bars, MATT Violet OE longitudinal bars;
Stickers: Squircles, Camouflage, Lettering;
Key covers: Red and Fluorescent, Silver and Fluorescent, Beige and Fluorescent;
Carpet mats: Rubber car mats with vehicle logo, Velour car mats with 3D embroidered vehicle logo, Velvet car mats with ecodome vehicle logo;
Blue&Me™ TomTom©: Blue&Me™ TomTom© (live), Blue&Me™ TomTom© (not live);
Carrying systems: Roof bars, Ski carrier (3 sets of skis), Ski carrier (2 sets of skis), Windsurf carrier, Kayak carrier, Standard steel bike carrier, Top aluminum bike carrier;
Techno Pack: Blue & Me TomTom 2 Live, Blue & Me, My port, Steering controls;
Flex Pack: Functionaility pouch, Rear seat 60/40, 5 seat homoligation, Kit comfort, Cargo box, Reclining seat.

Source: Fiat

March 13, 2012

First official video of the new Fiat 500L released

The first official video of the new 2012 Fiat 500L has just been released as a preparation of its world debut – tomorrow at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. In the name of the vehicle L stands for “Large” and of course 500 signifies that the car is part of the Fiat 500 range. The model shows a 500 version which is bigger in size and can accommodate new experiences and needs. For example, the new 2012 Fiat 500L is the first car of the range which is perfect for the family. In addition, the 500L expresses all of the taste of Italian style with a distinctive and catchy look and interprets the totally Fiat capability of conceiving and designing cars which are innovative in substance and in form. What distinguishes this model from the others is that it is “space-efficient”. Furthermore, the vehicle is designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, which drew inspiration from the modern reinterpretation of a car concept designed to achieve better external visibility and a large amount of internal light. This is achieved thank to the glass roof, which is the largest in its category. What is record braking for the segment here is that the model has a colour range of 30 body colours. The spaciousness of the interior offers lots of levels of comfort and it is the best in its category in relation to the external dimensions – 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high. In addition, there is a boot with a capacity of almost 400 litres that is able to hold up to 5 roller suitcases or a full-size push chair.

The new 2012 Fiat 500L will be launched on the European market in the last quarter of 2012. It will include an engine range of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II). Standing out amongst the petrol engines is the new 0.9-litre TwinAir, which is a new developmental result of the multi-award-winning Fiat two-cylinder engine, which in turn is famous with setting the world fuel consumption and emissions record thanks to its low displacement and inclusion of a high-efficiency turbocharger.

[media id=186 width=644 height=483]

Source: FIAT

March 5, 2012

FIAT at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Fiat will take part in the 2012 Geneva Motor Show which will take place in less than a month. The brand will present a range of cars, which entirely exude the spirit of “Italian technology and design”. First and foremost, the Motor Show, the new 2012 FIAT 500L will make its world debut. The new 500L is the star of brand. In the name 500L – the L letter stands for ‘Large’. Hence, this large edition of the Fiat 500 will be included in the range of the model. This will expand the 500 lineup will offer customers new experiences and opportunities. Four models of the new car will be on display to give the viewers a good idea of the potential of the new model that will be introduced in Europe during the end of 2012. In details, the engine range of the 500L consists of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4 litres), and one turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II).

Furthermore, additional space is also given to the new innovations of the 500 range. The Fiat 500 America numbered edition will also make its debut in Geneva. This model has only 500 numbered saloon units and 500 numbered convertible units produced. Next, the new Fiat 500 Color Therapy is another interpretation of the 500. Of course it will also be on display. This version interprets and expands on the colorful pop-inspired 500 model by revisiting and celebrating a few of the pastel color combinations that made it famous in Italy and around the world in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Fiat 500 America will be available at dealerships from March this year, while Fiat 500 Color Therapy – from June. At last, at the stand will also be on display a boutique version of the 500 – namely the Fiat 500 Gucci Convertible.

The other star in the show will be 2012 Fiat Punto, which is the evolution of a best seller. This is Fiat’s best-selling model, with 8.5 million units sold in Europe. Now it has an updated look and two-cylinder 85 HP (63 kW) TwinAir turbo engine. The model is the perfect balance between eco-friendliness (98 g/km CO2) and driving pleasure (85 HP (63 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm of torque). In addition, it will also show a new specific trim level with a unique look, and exclusive color. On display beside this special version will also be a Punto 2012 that joins highly recognizable elements such as the color, Exotica Red, together with the performance of the 135 HP (99 kW) 1.4 MultiAir Turbo S&S engine.

Furthermore, at the Geneva Motorshow spotlights will be turned on the Fiat Freemont AWD (All-Wheel Drive). It has all the characteristic of a SUV, the typical handling of a station wagon, and the room of a 7-seater MPV. The new four-wheel drive version is matched with the 170 HP (125 kW) 2.0 MultiJet 2 and 280 HP (206 kW) 3.6 V6 petrol engines.

Next to be seen in Geneva is the new 2012 Fiat Panda, which is the market’s city car. Two new features of the model that are bound to appeal will make their debut in Geneva: the new 85 HP (63 kW) TwinAir Turbo version with Dualogic gearbox. This is the ideal combination for driving in the city. Last but not least, there will also be presented the “Blue&Me TomTom2 LIVE” device. It combines the advantages of an infotainment system integrated with the car and connected to the network with those of a portable navigation system.

The Fiat Bravo Street also makes its debut in Geneva. These new edition series embody the latest trends at accessible price. The Bravo Street comes with the 120 HP (88 kW) 1.4 T-Jet Petrol and 120 HP (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet Ds engines, both with the right balance of performance and savings.

At last in Geneva will be previewed, the new 120 HP (88 kW) Fiat Doblò 1.4 T-Jet with the only turbocharged petrol engine of the class. The engine develops maximum power of 120 HP and torque values at the top of the category (206 Nm (151 lb-ft) at 2000 rpm). It features 7-seater cabin, which strengthens the family space positioning of the model.

Source: FIAT

February 21, 2012

2012 Fiat 500 is “Best Car” according to “Travel + Leisure” Annual Design Awards

The new 2012 Fiat 500 was named “Best Car” in the eighth annual “Travel + Leisure Design Awards”. To be more precise, the 2012 Travel + Leisure Design Awards award new products, buildings and destinations that improve the travel experience through thoughtful design. The jury of the Design Awards appraised 2012 Fiat 500 for its effortless combination of compact practicality with a real sense of style, speed, and fun. In addition, the vehicle will be featured in the March issue of Travel + Leisure. What is more important here is that the 2012 Fiat 500 will be recognized at the Travel + Leisure Design Awards event on 7^th of March at Department in Berlin, Germany.
2012 Fiat 500 offers a unique combination of Italian design, driving fun and efficiency at an unbeatable value. Hence, this makes it the best model to win this particular award. Moreover, Fiat 500 is offered in several special models, such as the open-air Fiat 500 Cabrio, or the exclusive 500 and 500c by Gucci, or the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth. This means that to every customer is offered the unique opportunity to choose the most appealing one to them, and to drive it with excitement and unmatchable driving pleasure.

Source: Fiat

February 16, 2012

Fiat Punto MY2012

The MY2012 Fiat Punto range offers unrivaled diversity that is intended to fit every need a customer might have. New trim levels, exterior revisions, paint finishes and ten engine choices among which the brilliant TwinAir “International Engine of the Year 2011” are all in store for us in the coming year.

Yes, the legendary 2 cylinder TwinAir drivetrain is set to join the lineup that Spring. Despite being only 0.9L big it develops 85 hp (supercharged) and 145 Nm of torque. The cost in carbon dioxide emissions for all of that stands at 98 g/km. But it’s not green just because it’s small. A clever button on the dashboard (it says Eco on it, It must be clever) allows the driver to change the switch the engine’s mode of working between normal and Eco with the latter one restricting torque output and thus becoming super economical. Stop&Start with Gear Shift Indicator technology is used in every single EURO5 engine throughout the Punto range. With it one can save up to 15% fuel in an urban area. Even more feats of greenness can be seen in the 85 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 unit where two innovative systems (Intelligent Alternator and Intelligent Flow) work together along with the use of low-viscosity transmission oil to achieve stunning emission figures ( 90 g/km of Carbon Dioxide). The Intelligent Alternator system optimises the battery recharging strategy during the “engine cut-off” phases, while the Intelligent Flow represents an oil pump with variable displacement and it also does optimisation of the cooling circuit. Other than these, the list of engines goes on and one is unlikely to make a mistake no matter the choice:

Petrol

69 HP 1.2 8v E5 (with and without Start&Stop)

77 HP 1.4 8v E5 Start&Stop (mechanical or Dualogic gearbox)

105 HP 1.4 MultiAir 16v E5 Start&Stop

135 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo 16v E5 Start&Stop

Diesel

75 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 16v E5 (with and without Start&Stop)

95 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 16v E5 Start&Stop

Bi-Fuel

70 HP 1.4 8v petrol-methane E5

77 HP 1.4 8v petrol-LPG E5

In Italy, the Fiat Punto is sold in three lines: Comfort, Sport and Fun to Drive. Those lines have sub-levels. The Comfort splits into Pop, Easy and Lounge trim levels – dedicated to the traditional customer focused on comfort and style. The Sport line has the Racing and Sport trim levels – the Puntos are more dynamic and performance oriented. Then there’s the Fun to Drive which has the TwinAir trim level that is a sort of a tribute to the TwinAir engine. The trim is distinguishable by the glossy black pillars and mirror covers, special alloy wheels, 13 exterior colours, one of which is dedicated, Energetico Green, the exclusive glossy black roof option and special “Sportex” seat fabrics.

Further on, throw in some revised front and rear bumpers with body coordinated finishes. Reposition the turning signals, refurbish the interior in some new upholstery and add to that two pairs of 15” alloy wheels and you have a MY2012. It still gets the heart pumping as if it is an absolute debut. We want one please.

Source: Fiat

February 8, 2012

2012 Fiat Panda – Price £8900 OTR

2012 Fiat Panda - Side Angle Fiat has announced the price list for the new 2012 5-door Panda. It starts at just £8900 OTR as the price goes up to £12 250 for the top-of-range Fiat Panda Lounge 1.3 Multijet 75PS that includes air conditioning, roof rails, Start&Stop and alloy wheels as standard.

The engine range includes 69PS 1.2-litre petrol, 85PS 0.9-litre TwinAir, and 75PS 1.3-litre MultiJet 2 turbodiesel, the new Fiat Panda can be ordered in three different trim levels – Pop, Easy and Lounge.

Standard equipment in the entry level Pop includes electric windows, central locking, Dualdrive electric power steering, four airbags and body colour bumpers. The extensive options list includes ESP, roof rails and black pastel paint.

Easy trim versions add remote central locking, air conditioning, roof rails and a higher grade audio system, while Lounge additionally receives heated electric mirrors, 15” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, body coloured mirrors and door handles, and side mouldings.

Safety is of course top of the agenda with up to six airbags, double seatbelt pretensioners, an active anti-whiplash head restraint system, and available ESP. In addition, a new Low Speed Collision Mitigation system will become available for the first time. This uses a laser sensor on the windscreen to scan a space a short distance in front of the vehicle to determine the risk of a collision. It is capable of automatically activating emergency braking at speeds less than 30km/h (18.6mph).

A vast list of available options will allow customers to specify a car to suit their own needs and, with a huge choice of 10 exterior colours and six interior/dashboard combinations, everyone will be able to create their own special Panda.

“I’m delighted that we remain highly competitive against our key rivals in this small car sector,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “We are particularly good value when you take into consideration the levels of equipment offered in standard specification across the range.”

OTR pricing:

Model	Basic Price (£)	Total OTR (£)
POP 1.2 8v 69 CV	6996.62	8900.00
POP 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	8829.95	11,100.00
EASY 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV	8538.28	10,750.00
EASY 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV DUALOGIC	9163.28	11,500.00
EASY 1.2 8V 69 CV	7538.28	9550.00
EASY 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	9371.62	11,750.00
LOUNGE 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV	8954.95	11,250.00
LOUNGE 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV DUALOGIC	9579.95	12,000.00
LOUNGE 1.2 8V 69 CV	7954.95	10,050.00
LOUNGE 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	9788.28	12,250.00

Source: Fiat

February 7, 2012

Tag: Fiat