Fiat India will unveil the 2012 models of the Linea sedan and the Grande Punto hatchback come January 3rd, 2012. Both these cars, though ravishingly good looking and highly capable performers have been real sluggards when it comes to moving out of showroom shelves. A key factor for poor sales may be attributed to the shoddy and step motherly treatment prospective Fiat customers have been receiving at Tata-Fiat dealerships, where Fiat cars are sold alongside Tata car models.
It took a couple of years for Fiat India to realize that the sales and service joint venture with Tata Motors is simply not cutting the ice for Fiat’s sales. So, Fiat is in the process of setting up independent dealerships and after sales service centers to reinvigorate the Italian brand in India. Even as the first standalone Fiat India dealership will open up at Delhi on the Janaury 7th, 2012, the 2012 models of the Linea and Grand Punto, that will be launched days before, will grace the dealership.
Fiat Grande Punto Hatchback
While there has been some talk about a 1.6 Liter diesel Multijet engine on the Linea sedan, this change probably might not make it into the 2012 model of the Linea. Instead, Fiat India could refresh the interiors of both the Linea and Grande Punto. Also, improved fit and finish in both these cars could rank high amongst the changes that Fiat India could make in the 2012 models. Also, exteriors could get a mild makeover to go with the 2012 model year.
With these changes and independent Fiat dealerships springing across India in 2012, Fiat India might hope to reverse its fortunes in a country, where the iconic Italian brand has been reduced to being an engine supplier to many rival car brands. We’ve firmly believed that it is the dealership experience at Tata-Fiat dealers that has put off many a prospective Linea or Grande Punto owner. This factor, now being addressed by Fiat has all the potential to turn around sales. All the best, Fiat!
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