The 2012 Palio is expected in India during the next edition of the Auto Expo and work is progressing quickly in Brazil where lot of its development is taking place. Seen here is a heavily masked test mule going through real world testing.
The new Palio's branding in India is going to be crucial. The company has not upgraded the existing Palio to BS4 standards and many Palio customers feel neglected, a few even deserted due to the non availability of spare parts. The case will change with the new Palio as it has with Fiat's recent products - Punto and Linea.
Fiat should perhaps run a buy back scheme for Palio owners when the new Palio hits showrooms. They could use Palio customers as a launchpad by offering the replacement model with attractive offers and schemes. This could help Fiat clear up the old and forgotten Palio from streets and perhaps give another reason for existing Fiat customers to buy another one. The Palio badge needs to be tossed out of the window, very importantly.
There's nothing severe expected under the bonnet of the new Palio. The same FIRE and Multijet engines will continue their service, the former is expected with Multiair technology that promises more efficiency. Engine displacement is 1 liter for the petrol and 1.3 liter for the diesel.
Could Tata use the Novo Palio's platform to roll out a new car? As far as we know, there is no understanding between Tata and Fiat on platforms, but that could change with the new Palio.
Renderings courtesy of Auto Esporte
