Indian Autos blog

We followed the Suzuki-VW relationship quite closely right from its inception as we expected great things out of it.

However, things did not go as we would have hoped. If you have been following the auto industry with a keen eye, you are well aware that Suzuki has decided to part ways with VW. The implication of the break up is quite clear – Suzuki has signed an agreement with Fiat for the supply of Fiat’s 1.3-liter Multijet four-cylinder to Maruti Suzuki.

Sources have revealed to IndianAutosBlog.com that the formal ceremony to mark the opening of Fiat’s first brand store in India is likely to be held on the 6th of January. Fiat has decided skip the Auto Expo and will launch its MY2012 Linea and Punto models on the 3rd in a different location.

Shortly after these models have been introduced, it will open the brand store, a new concept for a mass market brand, to the public.

A giant hoarding during the launch of the Fiat 500 in Berlin back in 2008

The first brand store, rumored to be in Connaught place, is where customers and fans of the Italian car maker can learn about its rich history and product lines. The display area could have special visitors in the form of imported cars and theme cars.

Depending upon the response the first store generates, Fiat could put up similar brand stores in other parts of the country to raise the awareness of Fiat products, design, technology and heritage. It is created to serve future customers and fans an experience of Fiat brand. Fiat could give visitors a taste of Italy with authentic snacks and coffee, the source adds.

Recently we brought you a story on how the Tata-Fiat JV is in turmoil. Now Fiat’s big boss has spoken the harsh words. Sergio Marchionne, Fiat CEO has told the WallStreet journal that he is unhappy with the Tata-Fiat joint venture and has plans to take steps to change the relationship. Fiat chief executive Sergio Marchionne Marchionne – We gave to them the right to distribute and in some areas  [ Read More ]

We all are aware of that the Tata-Fiat JV has received constant flak from the customers. But now even the top management is criticizing the working of the partnership. Bloomberg reported that Carl-Peter Forster, CEO and managing director of Tata Motors Ltd made a comment that he is “not happy” with the rate of Fiat sales and is considering ways to restructure the partnership. This statement has sent chills down  [ Read More ]

No, we don’t have plans to open any exclusive showrooms. We already have done 175 dealerships with Tata Motors, I don’t think there is a need to expand at this point.

Fiat India’s CEO Rajeev Kapoor replies to Motoroids’ Amit Chhangani when he asked about exclusive Fiat dealerships in our country.

We are adding another high-end variant of Linea later this year, over and above the high-powered diesel variant of the Grande Punto launched recently

Mr.Rajeev Kapoor, CEO of Fiat India speaking to Business Standard about model plans for 2010.

After the futile primo stint of the Italian giant in our country, it was the group of die hard Fiat aficionado’s (includes us here in Indian Autos Blog) who had the belief in the company to defy all odds and kick back. These die hard fans never gave up prating about Palio S10 (1.6) & Palio Adventure, be it clubs or forums or bars.

Every time one talks about these offerings, one goes into seeing himself behind the steering of these machines and revving them hard. It was the pure sound of the engine and exhaust which made the youths go crazy about it.

It was such models Fiat was known for and not the Palio 1.1. The major chunk of the brand’ followers are youngsters, when Fiat announced its comeback, they were the one who flooded blogs and forums and followed magazines to see them again revving the new Linea and Punto.

Fiat launched the Linea, it stirred everyone by it Italian design; all the young maniacs queued up to lay their hands on its steering.

click through to read the entire post

You might be aware that Fiat is currently working on Project 327, which will be the next generation Fiat Uno, due to be out in 2010 or 2011. After the two Fiat Uno renderings featured, these spyshots here, have lots more to say.

The heavily camouflaged car shown here (allegedly a Fiat Uno) was caught testing in Brazil, which is Fiat’s home turf in terms of sales. Firstly, the car looks huge! But, you can never say, there’s every possibility of a puny car hiding under that camouflage.

We hear that the new Uno will share its platform with the next-generation Panda, will come with Airbags and other safety equipment as standard, and feature fresh interiors like the Fiat 500 (only for Europe). Elsewhere, Uno might share interiors with Fiat Palio.

Source: World Car Fans