The Fiat XIH (codename) for Brazil is the Italian automaker’s answer to the Renault Kwid which is gearing up to go on sale in the country in 2016. Touted to replace the ageing Palio and Uno Vivace, the X1H is essentially a cost-effective derivative based partially on the Uno platform (front half is retained while the rear half is developed from scratch).
Being developed with strict cost targets, the new Fiat budget hatchback for the Latin American market borrows front and rear windshields, roof stamping and front doors form the Uno. As a result, the basic shape of the new car is similar to that of the donor model. Carblog.br has come up with a set of speculative renderings based on the spyshots.
The Fiat X1H hatchback is expected to be launched in Brazil sometime in H1 2016.The tall boy design has been retained but the front fascia gets a fresh design theme with larger headlamps and conventional grille (Uno sports three eccentric vents in the place of the grille). The rear fascia too is very different from that of the Uno. We expect the interior to borrow several components from the existing hatchback.
The local media reports suggest that Fiat XIH hatchback will have improved crashworthiness. Power is likely to come from the Palio’s 1.0-litre flex-fuel engine which puts out 75 PS while running on ethanol. Mated to a 5-speed transmission, the engine would benefit from a standard start/stop system. A turbocharged version of the engine is also expected to be in the offing.
Fiat X1H for Brazil – Renderings
Via – Carblog.br
