Fiat India Punto Abarth, Jeep, and new dealership launches in 2013

Fiat India has strategic growth plans for the current year. With a target of achieving 5% market share by 2016, Fiat India have a host of vehicle launches planned in the next few years. Speaking of launches during 2013, Fiat India is hopeful of getting in their Punto Abarth by mid 2013 while their Jeep model should make its entrance by end of this year.

Punto Abarth, a petrol hatchback is scheduled for Q3 launch of which the Italian automakers have plans of local manufacture to ensure prices are retained below Rs.10 lakhs. The upcoming vehicle is expected to possess a 1.4 liter T-Jet engine offering 165 bhp. Abarth is likely to get a few changes and will include stiffer suspension setup, sturdier chassis and specifically for Indian users, improved handling and braking. Fiat will sell this model through Abarth studios as part of the existing Fiat dealerships though there is talk of separate Abarth showrooms in India.

Fiat has also promised Indian markets their new Jeep by end of this year starting with Wrangler and Cherokee. Fiat has also promised 100 exclusive dealerships across the country by end of this year. Fiat has already signed agreements with dealers for top 35 cities in India. 70 new dealers will be opened this year by March while the balance 30 will come up in Tier II and Tier III cities before the year is out.