Fiat – Page 11 – Automobiles Review

Fiat 500L Premiere

Big news! No really, the Fiat 500L (L for “Large”) will be making a debut on the 82^nd Geneva Motor Show and today we have the first official images of it. Supposedly it will be targeted at people who want an SUV with MPV passenger space in a B car segment of restrained dimensions and efficiency (picky). The 500L, which complements the 500 Abarth and Cabrio versions, is Fiat‘s best shot at that.

Dimensions stand at 414 cm of length, 178 cm of width and 166 cm of height while inside the single-volume cabin offers seating for five. It is a further development of the concept of ‘cab forward’ introduced by Fiat with the 600 Multipla, a precursor to the concept of the compact people carrier.

The 500L wont hit the European showrooms until the last quarter of 2012 with three engine choices: the TwinAir (2011 international engine of the year), a 1.4 unit and a turbo diesel, 1.3 Multijet II. Although the MPV/SUV/Estate Fiats 500 will hold the latest of Fiat Group’s technology, production will be based in a Fiat factory in Kragujevac, Serbia.

Source: Fiat

February 2, 2012

2012 Fiat Punto Price – £9 990

Fiat has announced the price list for MY2012 Punto. The small city car is priced from just £9 990 OTR for the Pop 1.2 8-valve model. It hits the UK market this month and represents outstanding value for money.

The most expensive version is the Lounge 1.3 MultiJet priced at £15 600 OTR. It boasts automatic dual zone climate control, leather steering wheel, front fog lamps, 7 airbags, cruise control, ambient interior lighting and electric sunroof as standard.

The engine range includes six power units complying with EURO 5 regulations: 1.2 8-valve petrol 69PS, 1.4 8-valve petrol 77PS, 1.4 16-valve MultiAir petrol 105PS and 135PS, TwinAir 0.9-litre petrol 85PS and 1.3 16-valve MultiJet diesel 75PS and 85PS.

The new Punto comes in three main levels – Pop (base), Easy (mid) and Lounge (high).

Added to these are a sports version based on the Easy level grade called GBT, which will lead the advertising campaign developing within the sports association between Fiat UK and British Cycling.

The evolution of the Punto range includes external styling changes incorporating fully colour coded front and rear bumpers for a more sophisticated look, while three new exterior colours are introduced: Brit Pop Blue, Tango Red and Underground Grey.

Inside, new sportier seat fabrics and refreshed dashboard inserts identify the new car, along with a revised specification to provide a more defined spread of choice for customers and a more focused selection of options.

Standard equipment in the entry-level Pop model includes remote central locking, electric front windows, driver and passenger airbags, window airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, electric power steering and height-adjustable driver seat.

Easy trim level adds such equipment as leather steering wheel, 15” alloy wheels, and air conditioning, GBT level additionally gets sport suspension, rear spoiler and side skirts, while Lounge adds climate control, front fog lamps, cruise control, ambient interior lighting and electric sunroof.

Source: Fiat

January 27, 2012

2012 FIAT 500 Abarth – Price $22 000

Great news for all who love the brand FIAT! Today the company announced U.S. pricing for its new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), however without included destination in it, is starting form $22 000. Fiat 500 Abarth will now bring to the US years of traditions and success made on the European roadways and racetracks: world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited production volume.
This race-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth comes standard with many performance features. First of all, there is included the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, which delivers 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) of torque. Moreover Abarth comes with tuned suspension, brake systems and dual exhaust, turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light and 16-inch aluminum wheels! In addition driver and passenger performance seats include one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass-through and accent stitching. The Fiat 500 Abarth also comes standard with BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication, Bose premium audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

Included in the price of each 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience. At no additional charge, they can visit the Abarth Driving Experience, which is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience. All this is made in order to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.

Source: Fiat

January 13, 2012

Most creative TV Car Commercials for 2011 [VIDEO]

TV_thumb Automobile’s industry is one of the most important industries in the world. Undeniably there is a great contest between brands. All are competing in different areas, such as power, design, comfort and etc. However probably the most entertaining sphere where the brands compete is the one of TV Commercials. Through the years we have seen some of the most creative advertisements ever. However, it’s a good idea to stay up to day. For that reason we have picked up five of the TV Commercials, which had taken our attention. Perhaps advertising is the place where the creativity can take mind-blowing effects on viewers. We haven’t picked ads that are only informative. Instead, we have chosen such, which are rather more amusing and entertaining.

2011 Nissan Sentra Bubble Commercial

This one is most certainly on of the best ads we can see nowadays. Nissan Sentra Bubble creates the right amount of intrigue and cinematic magic. The commercial was shot with TBWA Toronto and directed by Holiday Films visual storyteller Luis Gerard.

The 2011 Nissan Sentra has a spacious interior and delivers a balanced power with fuel economy. Moreover it grabs the drivers’ attention with its intuitive control layout.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHqBbvMwXnA

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Commercial

Lets take a look at another add. This time we have 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Manifesto Commercial from DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula. Here we had the first spot of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is definitely really intriguing, because it puts the attention on pride in American manufacturing and engineering. Moreover it conveys the meaning that what we are going to see from Chrysler from now on is going to be superb! The commercial was developed by Wieden+Kennedy.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is proud to have an added refinement and still-substantial off-road capability. This is a fully redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee which most certainly makes it competitive choice for a midsize crossover. It can intrigue the customer with its strong V6 or V8 power, high tow rating, upscale interior and capable off-road prowess.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi0SbrrGaiw

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee “If It Can” Commercial

Here we have another brilliant advertisement of 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is obvious that the creatives have made a really strong advertising campaign in 2011. Thank to them, we are sure now that if the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee can scale mountain sides, ford rivers, and tow an unsurpassed amount of pounds, then just imagine what it can do in these terrible snowy conditions!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW5jg8KzyZE

2011 Fiat 500 Commercial

From this advertisement we can see that the 2011 Fiat 500 is inspired by the classic 500 that originally went on sale in 1957. This commercial conveys the feeling that the customer should count on history. This is the Italian style which offers an exterior which is retro and cute, small but fun-to-drive. Furthermore 2011 Fiat 500 is another stylish car which is the proof that the small can be also cool! Not only it has adorable styling, but also it delivers the drivers with sport-like capable handling, excellent fuel efficiency and at last but not least spaciousness.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdS1Mgu11vg

2011 BMW M5 Commercial

Probably the most creative advertisement for the last year was presented by BMW’s brand. It’s so strong that it immediately pushes the viewer to go to the nearest dealership and purchase the car. This 2011 BMW M5 is the next generationmodel of the freshly redesigned 5 Series of the brand. It also offers impressive combination of superb performance and daily use. The 2011 BMW M5 uses the S63 biturbo 4.4 Litre V8 with twin scroll turbocharging technology and it is expected to have an output of 560 hp (418 kW) and 502 ft-lb (681 NM) of torque. Perhaps now you understand why the commercial is the way it is.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MYjowQHi28

Source: Youtube

January 5, 2012

Cars Under 30 000$ You Can Buy Today

So you have 30 000$ laying around and you want to buy a car? Well great! Always willing to give reasonable consumer advice, we at automobilesreview.com have compiled a list of the best cars out there that go effortlessly under that limit.

Mazda RX-8 – Starting at $26,795

It’s nice to have something exclusive just to tackle the mundane day-to-day life. So why not try the Mazda RX-8? Yes, it has been around for over 7 years now and soon it will be gone but it still is capable to put a smile on your face and also to punch you in the chest. While retaining a typical sloping profile of a two-door coupé it actually has four doors if we count the clever rear-hinged “freestyle” ones at the back. That gives you a certain degree of practicality and also something to brag about The power comes from a 1.3 but it is a rotary Wankel engine so it develops the staggering 232 units of horsepower. However, despite it’s size, this engine is quite thirsty (because of working in a completely different manner from conventional engines) for both fuel and oil. So running costs might be a problem for some.

MINI Cooper S – $23,800

This is the closest thing to a BMW you can get for that kind of money. It has a 1.6 twin scroll turbocharged engine with fully variable valve timing. So in essence you get 181 hp in a car that weighs no more than a double cheeseburger. It has perfect road manners, plenty of efficiency and a classy image deriving from an old British icon. It’s not very big though, is it?

VW Golf GTI – Starting at $23,700

This was an easy pick. Ever since the magnificent Mk.1, GTIs have always been dominant on the hot hatch market. Blistering performance, superb handling and a solid image are just a few superlatives that can describe what the capable hand German engineers has done here. Ever evolving, the Golf now makes use of a powerful 2.0 l. TSI engine coupled with either a 6-speed DSG gearbox or a 6-speed manual for diehard motoring enthusiasts. It’s hard to find anything here not to like. Focus ST fans may argue that it is a bit dreary and plain but that is as far as they would go.

Mazda MX-5 – Starting at $23,190

Another Mazda here however, unlike the RX-8, the MX does not take itself very seriously. It has a refined 2.0 l, 136 hp engine and not a million horsepower rocket thruster under the hood. Nor does it get any cunningly disguised compartments. All it does is to stay true to itself – front mid engine, rear-wheel drive, two seats and a soft top. It was originally conceived to honer the memory of the emblematic small British roadster class. Yes, most probably not the technological miracle that other cars try to be, but you’ll notice heads turning while driving around in town and that will make you happy.

Fiat 500 Abarth – Starting at $23,000

We wouldn’t miss a chance to add some Italian pesto on our petrol salad. It is another iconic supermini which changed the world of consumerism when it got out in 1957. Today, more than half a century later it is still as good to the taste as Italian wine. Abarth is a subsidiary company for Fiat that produces hardcore, lunatic, rubber burning demons. With their help this 2012 imp now has a 16-valve 1.4-liter engine that brings 160 hp. The design has managed to preserve its simplistic spirit coming from the 500’s ancestors and yet it is absolutely stunning to look at. Is it better than the MINI? We will let you decide.

Dodge Challenger R/T – Starting at $29,995

“It’s a muscle car and it is awesome!” That is at least what the kid in all of us says. In reality it is impractical, thirsty, barely a technological landmark and it handles like a rowing boat. But bare with us on that one. Imagine – you on the open road, the sun blazing down on you, haze rising from the black tarmac. What do we need to complete the picture? You guessed it, it’s a Dodge Challenger. But it’s not the power, nor are the emblematic looks you want the most. All you want to hear is the sound of a 375 hp, V8 HEMI thundering down that road with you behind the wheel. That sort of practice should actually be classified as therapy for it might be the most smile-inducing thing out there. But it is even more than that: with it you are fighting for a cause to save this dying breed of vehicles which used to be so cherished in the past.

Honda Clarity FCX – Around $22 000

So Cameron Diaz drives a hybrid and so does Leonardo DiCaprio. The list goes on for miles and it makes you think: “what is it about those cars?” Well, nowadays it has become a trend to think about the environment. 30 years ago it might have been “cool” to own the above mentioned Dodge Challenger but now Prius is the new swagger. But are you willing to play along and subdue to the the newly established norms? No, you are better than that. Go full on environmentally friendly with the Honda Clarity FCX – the car that according to Jay Leno will save the supercar just like the the car saved the horse. Put simply, the FCX will be the future of motoring when petrol starts running low. It is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle which you just top up with compressed hydrogen and then use the oxygen from the atmosphere to create a reaction with an end result – H2O (water). The energy expelled from the reaction however powers up a 136 horsepower electric motor. This mode of energy producing eliminates the need of the dreadful battery packs used in various hybrids which are unreliable and dependent on power sockets and the weather. The Honda is efficient, clean and quite normal actually. The only problem of driving around in it is that you might flood the Earth eventually (joking really). While it is amazingly cheap to buy, obtaining one is as tricky as obtaining hydrogen itself. About 200 vehicles will be leased over the next three years, primarily in Southern California. But if you do manage to get one, you wont get more exclusive than that.

December 21, 2011

2012 New Fiat Panda

2012 Fiat Panda - Front Angle
The new 2012 Fiat Panda is a continuation of an invention has its 31-year successful history. Now the third generation of the Panda model springs forth from this heritage. It offers more quality in terms of space, comfort, functionality, technology and safety features. In addition it combines the best features of the first- and second-generation cars. The car will definitely bring satisfaction to customers who want to combine the practical handling of a city car with the space and comfort of a five-door compact car. All this is further improved by the modern and harmonious appearance of the Panda.

Now the third generation Panda has enhanced each of its elements both functionally and with attention to every detail. The result is of great overall harmony, due to applying signs consistent with one another that increase its usability and pleasing design values. First of all, the new car makes maximum use of the interior space, rationalising the dimensions. Nevertheless the car continues to be a very compact one but with slight grow with a few centimetres. This will unquestioningly ensure the attainment of the highest standards of safety and improve the generous level of passenger room.

We are speaking here about a length of 365 centimetres, a width of 164 and a height of 155, and with five doors. In this way the new Panda can comfortably accommodate up to five people. Moreover it has one of the most spacious boots in its segment: 225 litres which become 260 with the sliding rear seat in the fully forward position up to the point of reaching 870 litres with the backrest of the rear seats folded down. The new Fiat Panda conveys freshness and appeal in addition to a strong “Italian style” that makes it instantly recognisable from the very first glance: the slightly convex bonnet joins with the elegant horizontal grille and the new front headlamps with are made this time with rounded shape. Additionally to the interior has been added few graphic patterns which are decorating the door panels and roof of the car.

The Fiat Panda offers maximum freedom of use with its roomy, functional and comfortable passenger compartment that is in no way inferior to that of cars of a higher class. Besides, flexibility has always been one of the model’s strong points, as the new dashboard, various seat configurations and large number of storage compartments. First of all, the new dashboard is designed as a practical multipurpose shell containing a roomy storage “pocket”. Additionally there is a classic glovebox stored in the lower part of the dashboard. To be more precise the dashboard is wrapped up in a colourful frame, radio and main controls. Furthermore is something new around the seats, which make the model more flexible. Firstly, the driver’s seat is available with height adjustment, whereas the front passenger seat can be fitted with a backrest that folds down to form a table. Next, the rear seat is available in the standard 2-seater version with fold-down split backrest or, upon request, in the configurations: 2 seats sliding longitudinally with fold-down 50/50 split backrest, 3 seats with fold-down backrest and 3 seats with fold-down 60/40 split backrest.

The new Panda includes innovative features that simplify and improve life on-board accessible to everyone. Specifically, the vehicle offers sophisticated technological solutions: the “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” braking system and the “Blue&Me TomTom 2 LIVE” navigation system. Furthermore it also includes features such as Start&Stop, Gear Shift Indicator (GSI), ecoDrive and ECO mode of the TwinAir Turbo engine.

What has to be highlighted in this new Panda are the brand new two-cylinder engines equipped with the Start&Stop system as standard: 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo, named “International Engine of the Year 2011”, and the brand new 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir, adopted for the first time. The renewed 69 HP 1.2 Fire petrol engine and the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, also with Start&Stop supplied standard, complete the range of engines.
2012 Fiat Panda - Front View

To go further into details, the 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo is the first of a new family of two-cylinder engines developed by Fiat Powertrain This 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine develops 85 HP (63 kW) at 5500 rpm of full power and a torque of 145 Nm/107 lb-fr at 1900 rpm (constant up to 3000 rpm). Moreover, if you prefer to be “eco” friendy and lower the fuel consumption, you can press the ECO key on the dashboard to limit torque to 100 Nm/74 lb-ft at 2000 rpm. This engine records 4.2 litres/100 km and CO₂emission equal to 99 g/km in the combined cycle. No surprise it was the “International Engine of the Year 2011”. Next is the 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir. Interesting here is that this is Fiats world debut in the “aspirated” version of the TwinAir engine that delivers maximum power of 65 HP (48 kW) at 6250 rpm and a torque of 88 Nm/65 lb-ft at 3500 rpm. All with a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions – the values recorded in the combined cycle are 4.2 l/100 km and 99 g/km, respectively. What is more important is that the performance is comparable to engines of the same power. The thid version is 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, which is the latest evolution of the FIRE family that boasts over 10 million units produced. Thanks to the continuous updates and its flexible architecture, this family of engines remains a point of reference in the category as use of the continuously variable valve timing unit shows, able as it is to optimize valve timing (opening and closing) at all engine speeds. Hence not only the fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are reduced (5.2 litres/100 km and 120 g/km, respectively), but also the performance is increased to ensure torque availability at low rpm (102 Nm/75 lb-ft at 3000 g/min) and power at high rpm (69 HP/51 kW at 5500 g/min). At last comes the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, which has been made with a respect to the environment! The all-new Panda offers the 1.3 MultiJet II (Euro5) with DPF standard will also deliver a driving satisfaction with its maximum output of 75 HP/ 55 kW at 4000 rpm and a torque of 190 Nm/140 lb-ft at just 1500 rpm.

The new model of the car will be available with front-wheel drive. Next, the Panda 4×4 will make a debut offering 3 trim levels – Pop, Easy and Lounge – 10 body colours, 9 interior environments, 2 hub caps and 2 14″ and 15″ alloy wheels. Of course, the new contents will include the “Blue&Me TomTom LIVE”. The innovative optional LSCM (Low Speed Collision Mitigation) braking system will become also available. In details, this system can detect an obstacle present nearby and automatically brake at speeds slower than 30 km/h.

Fiat has though for the safety and security of the driver and the passengers too. To guarantee them, the new Panda combines a body designed according to the most modern criteria with active and passive safety content that ensures its optimum performance. The safety performance was designed by the designers and the Fiat Safety Centre after examining all possible types of collisions: front and side impacts, roll-over, pile-up and collisions with pedestrians. Various speeds at which impact may occur were also taken into consideration as well as different types of obstacles and different types of occupants with greatly varying physical characteristics. And to guarantee the protection of the occupants, the new Panda offers 4 airbags standar, ABS complete with B.A.S. (Brake Assist System), front seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter. Depending on the markets and versions, the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) complete with Hill Holder system. At last, the new “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” system is an innovative active safety feature, which is capable of recognising obstacles in front of the car and of braking automatically when the driver fails to avoid the collision. The control unit of this LSCM system is designed to activate automatic braking, following a request by the laser sensor, in addition to being designed to request a reduction in the torque from the engine control unit if the accelerator pedal has not been released. The aim of Fiat is with the help of this LSCM system to guarantee maximum safety in all conditions of use!

2012 Fiat Panda - Side Angle

	Pop / Easy / Lounge
	1.2 8v 69 HP	1.3 MultiJet 75 HP Stop&Start	0.9 85 HP TwinAir Stop&Start	0.9 65 HP TwinAir Stop&Start
ENGINE
No. of cylinders and arrangement	4L	4L	2L	2L
Diameter x stroke (mm)	70.8 x 78.9	69.6 x 82	80.5 x 86	83.5×88.0
Displacement (cm³)	1242	1248	875	964
Compression ratio	11.1	16.8	10	11.2
Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm	51 (69) at 5500 rpm	55 (75) at 4000 rpm	63 (85) at 5500 rpm	65 (48) at 6250 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm	102 at 3000 rpm	190 at 1500 rpm	145 at 1900 rpm	88 at 3500 rpm
Timing system (drive)	Belt	Chain	Chain	Chain
Power supply	P	DS	P	P
Ignition	Controlled	Through compression	Controlled	Controlled
TRANSMISSION
Drive	C514 MT	C510 DS MT	C514 MT	C514 MT
Clutch	Mechanical	Hydraulically operated	Hydraulically operated	Mechanical
Transmission: 1^st	4.100	4.273	4.100	4.100
2^nd	2.158	2.238	2.158	2,158
3^rd	1.480	1.444	1.345	1.345
4^th	1.121	1.029	0.974	0.974
5^th	0.897	0.767	0.766	0.766
6^th	–	–	–	–
Reverse	3.818	3.909	3.818	3.818
Final reduction ratio	3.438	3.150	3.867	4.500
STEERING SYSTEM
Type	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering
Turning circle (m)	9.3	9.3	9.3	9.3
BRAKES – D (disc) – T (drum)
Front: mm	D257X12	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X12
Rear: mm	T203	T203	T203	T203
SUSPENSION
Front	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember
Rear	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (mm)	2300	2300	2300	2300
Front/rear track (mm)	1409	1409	1409	1409
Front/rear track (mm)	1407	1407	1407	1407
Length / Width / Height (m)	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1553
VDA luggage capacity (litres)(standard – rear sliding seat forward – backrest folded down)	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870
WHEELS
Tyres	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T
(*) = Optional	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T
Space-saver wheel opt. 803	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M
ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT (12 V)
Battery capacity (Ah)	40 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)
WEIGHT – CAPACITIES
*(TYPE-APPROVED WEIGHTS)*
Service weight DIN (kg)	940	1035	975	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Fuel tank capacity (litres)	37	37	37	37
Payload including driver	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Payload including driver	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Max towing weight	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	900 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed (km/h)	164	168	177	159
Acceleration (sec.): 0 – 100 km/h	14.2	12.8	11.2	15.7
CONSUMPTION EEC (l/100km)
According to Directive 1999/100/EC
Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle	6.7/4.3/5.2	4.7/3.5/3.9	5.0/3.8/4.2 (2)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
CO₂(g/km)	120	104	99	99

1) Only for TwinAir with ECO button pressed:

Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm			57 (77.5) at 5500 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm			100 at 2000 rpm

2) MTA version:

Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle			4.8/3.7/4.1
CO₂(g/km)			95

Source: FIAT

December 15, 2011

2012 Fiat Doblo Cargo Price – £11 695

For the second time Fiat Doblò Cargo wins the Light Van of the Year award! The awards are due to its blend of economy, drivability and styling. For sure Fiat Doblo Cargo deserves the label “number one light van of the year” because of its efficiency in fuel-economy, appeal, durability and driving dynamics

The popular load-carrier won the last years both International Van of the Year and Fleet Van of the Year. The vehicle is available with a choice of four low emissions, Euro 4 and 5-specification engines. Moreover the manufacturers offer the new Doblò in eight different forms – Cargo, Cargo Maxi, Cargo SX, Cargo Maxi SX, Combi, Combi Maxi, Platform Cab and Work Up . Undeniably this diversity will satisfy any individual taste.

To go further into details the engine line-up comprises a 1.4-litre 16v 95bhp/70kW petrol unit and three MultiJet 16v diesels – 1.3 (90bhp/66kW), 1.6 (105bhp/77kW), and 2.0 (135bhp/99kW). And if you already wonder about the prices, the basic one is £11,695 for the Doblò Cargo 1.4 16v Petrol Euro 4), and or £12,515 for the Euro 5 version. A highlight that has to be also mentioned is the “Start&Stop” function which stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the van to a complete halt. Of course it restarts it again when the driver wants to move off again. However this extra goes only with the Euro 5 versions thus improving them with 15 per cent fuel savings and a low CO2 figure from just 126g/km.

Source: Fiat

December 6, 2011

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US is being currently exhibited at the LA Motor Show.

“Bringing the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth to the U.S. enables us to reach out to driving enthusiasts who want Italian performance at an attainable price,” commented Olivier Francois, Head of FIAT Brand and Chief Marketing Officer – Chrysler Group LLC.

“With its lightweight, track-tuned handling and purpose-built design, the Fiat 500 Abarth brings to life the legendary racing heritage of the brand and becomes the Italian high-performance car for everyday driving.”, he added.

The small city car will be powered by an all-new 1.4 liter MultiAir Turbo engine. There are no exact numbers, but probably the US 500 Abarth will be slightly more powerful than the EU model. The European model boasts 140PS (103 kW) and 206Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque.

Other goodies include Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally included on a small car. The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes the brand’s legendary performance heritage to American streets.

The exterior boasts complete aerodynamics body kit and 16” alloy wheels as standard and possibility for 17” as an option.

The interior comes with Abarth-designed steering wheel with perforated leather and flat bottom. There are also cruise, audio and BLUE&ME^TM Handsfree Communication technology controls on the steering wheel. The instrument cluster has 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer. For a touch of sophistication, the instrument-panel cluster brow is wrapped in Nero leather with Rosso accent stitching. There are Unique Abarth-styled front performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass through, accent stitching around the perimeter and integrated side-thorax air bags.

For a contemporary and technical look, the Fiat 500 Abarth features the center stack, radio and climate control system, as well as the headliner and pillars finished in Nero, while the four-passenger seating is available in Nero (cloth or leather) or Rosso/Nero (leather) color combinations.

Source: Fiat

November 17, 2011

Fleet News – 2010 BMW 3-Series is the most reliable car

The most reliable car is the BMW 3-Series, according to the survey, retaining its number one position from 2010, while the Honda Accord retains its second place from 2010. What is more, German brands have caught up with Japanese cars when it comes to reliability. In other words – six German brands appear in the top 10 as three of them in the top five.

The final two places in the table are taken by two cars absent from the top 10 last year, with the Mazda6 taking ninth place and the BMW 5 Series securing 10^th place. BMW also takes the top spot as the most reliable car manufacturer, with Audi taking second place.

“We are delighted to have won the overall honour in the FN50 reliability survey. The outgoing BMW 3 Series Saloon and the 3 Series range overall has been and continues to be an outstanding success for us.”, commented Tim Abbott, managing director at BMW UK.

“Awards such as this ensure customers can buy a class-leading vehicle safe in the knowledge that only years of enjoyable, hassle free motoring in a premium car await.”, he added.

The annual analysis is commissioned by Fleet News.

Check out all rankings, below!

Most reliable cars

BMW 3 Series
Honda Accord
Volkswagen Golf
Audi A3
Toyota Avensis
Nissan Qashqai
Volkswagen Passat
Audi A4
Mazda6
BMW 5 Series

Most reliable car manufacturers

BMW
Audi
Honda
Volkswagen
Toyota
Nissan
Mercedes-Benz
Ford
Lexus
Skoda

Most reliable vans

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Ford Transit Connect
Volkswagen Caddy
Ford Transit
Volkswagen Transporter

Most reliable van manufacturers

Volkswagen
Ford
Mercedes-Benz
Fiat
Renault

November 9, 2011

Superchips Abarth 500

Abarth 500 get some more boost from SuperChips ltd. The specialists has worked its magic on the Abarth’s Bosch MED7.9.10 engine management system to enable the 500’s 1.4-litre turbocharged engine to deliver some more power.

Still, the reliability doesn’t suffer at all, because everything is carefully tested on dyno. The ECU remap gives enhanced performance without any side effects.

Originally, the 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers 135PS (99 kW) at 5500RPM and 180Nm (130 lb-ft) or 206Nm (152 lb-ft) in sport mode at 3000RPM. The tuning gives another 22PS (16 kW) and 46Nm (34 lb-ft), meaning that you’ll have 167PS (115 kW) at 5654RPM and 226Nm (164 lb-ft) at 2942RPM.

On the road, this means significantly improved in-gear acceleration, making journeys more exciting, overtaking safer and fast driving more fun. In conjunction with Superchips attention to detail to ensure sharper throttle response, the end result is an Abarth 500 that feels considerably sharper than before!

The Superchips Abarth 500 upgrade requires installation at one of approximately 80 Superchips performance centres and is covered by a full Customer Service Guarantee and an industry-leading 12 month / 30 000 supplementary full vehicle warranty.

The Superchips ECU remap is available now directly from Superchips and its UK dealer network, priced at £455 and will fit on all Abarth 500 cars from February 2009 onwards.

Superchips – don’t compromise, optimise.

Source: Superchips

November 7, 2011

2012 Fiat Sedici

Fiat has released 2012 Sedici, which is already available to order. The model is very successful with its more than 76 000 units registered from 2006 until now. The vehicle is actually the best-selling compact SUV in Italy. Still, we wonder why?

2012 Sedici comes in three trim levels – Dynamic, Emotion and Experience and is available with two engines – 1.6 16v 120PS (88 kW) and 2.0 16v Multijet diesel engine with 135PS (99 kW).

2012 Fiat Sedici is available in either front-wheel drive with the only – for those who appreciate line, space and functionality without the need for 4×4 – wheel-drive version is in “on demand” system that lets you the freedom to switch from 4×2 to 4×4, in fact, thanks to the electronic traction, the system automatically adjusts torque distribution on the two axes, further reducing fuel consumption compared to other off-road vehicles in this category, up to a 4×4 with locked differential and torque split 50% front and 50% on the rear axle.

The standard equipment includes air conditioning, CD radio, fog lights, ESP, four airbags.

The addition of the ESP from the preparation from Dynamic, the windows and the bag MP3 player from the Emotion version, and, for the top version of Experience The new navigator 5 “touch with CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth, USB and control connnessione iPhone / iPod.

Source: Fiat

November 3, 2011

Romeo Ferraris Cinquone Stradale

Romeo Ferraris has introduced a street legal version of Abarth 500 Cinquone Stradale race car.

The small vehicle has the same exterior as the race car, which includes an aerodynamics package consisting of new bonnet with two air scoops for engine cooling, new front bumper with a big central air intake, integrated wide body fenders and skirts and finally a new rear bumper with central exhaust tips.

The most staggering about the small car is the 1.4 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300PS (220 kW), which is just 60PS (44 kW) less than the race car. The result is thanks to a new bigger turbocharger, sport exhaust system with metal catalytic converter and of course an ECU remap. The performance is brilliant, because of the brutal engine and the incredibly low weight – 1000kg (2205 lbs). There is no data about the acceleration, but the power-to-weight ratio is 3.33 kg/hp, so 0 to 100 km/h will be less than 5 seconds.

The interior boasts a complete roll bar as the rear seat is removed. There is also a lot of carbon fiber as well as carbon race seats with with OMP 4-point seatbelts.

Romeo Ferraris Cinquone Stradale Interior

Source: Romeo Ferraris

October 21, 2011

Tag: Fiat