Fiat Group Automobiles S.p.A., the well appreciated Italian auto major, has introduced its facelifted version of the stylish Linea sedan in Greece, in last week November 2012. The Fiat sedan was in a dire need of image makeover and the breathtaking final results are there for everyone to see. After enchanting Greek audience, the Italian auto giant is expected to bring its revamped Linea saloon to Indian shores by the end of 2013 calendar year.
The new 2013 Linea sedan facelift flaunts its embedded ultra modish and curvaceous Italian design character, just like its predecessor model. The reworked sedan comes trimmed with numerous interior and exterior refinements, which have been a prime reason behind the success and popularity of Linea saloon among the global audience.
The Linea model launched in Greece incorporates the popular Fiat 1.3 MultiJet diesel power-mill, with power output increased to 95 bhp from the present 90 bhp. Further, torque delivery is toned down by 9 Nm to 200 Nm. Other under-the-hood specifications remain moreover the same in new Linea saloon.
The Italian firm operates as FIAT India Automobiles Limited (FIAL) in the country and has a 50-50 joint venture partnership with Tata Motors. Evidently, the company has an extremely limited product portfolio in Indian passenger car market with just two models – Linea sedan and premium hatch Grande Punto. Further, FIAL has a scarce sales and service network in the country as well, which the company has announced to augment by two folds by the end of next year.
The launch of revamped Linea in the country seems like an exciting prospect and will definitely be looked forward by local car enthusiasts. The current Linea model is acclaimed for its sturdy built along with its best-in-class comfort and convenience features, thereby similar characteristics are expected in its Indian facelift version. However, in order to capitalise its market position in country, the Italian auto giant must increase its countrywide presence along with an efficient sales and service network. Further, FIAL needs to introduce more products in prominent segments to keep the Indian consumers interested in the brand.
