SCOOP- Fiat's B-segment SUV to compete with Renault Duster

People on the internet are claiming that Fiat’s B-segment SUV is a variant of the Fiat 500. These rumours are incorrect. We did a complete detailed enquiry from our sources and have come to the conclusion that Fiat India is working on the Adventure version of the Punto in this segment.

Yes, it is true. If you remember the Fiat Palio Adventure, it was the first Adventure vehicle from Fiat that made its way into India. Now, the company is preparing to get the Punto Adventure. This vehicle will be powered by the 1.4-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel engines and will be priced against the Duster.

For the 500-derived platforms, the investment for Fiat India will be much higher, while the Punto Adventure will share the Punto and Linea platform. The 500 models are built as per European standards, and this will mean a lot more investment. Something like why doesn't Renault get Clio to India. Hence, Fiat is working on the Adventure version of the Grande Punto. This will not just reduce the cost for the product, but also ramp the volumes of the existing portfolio. Indians love SUVs for their road presence and seating position and Fiat is giving them exactly what is required. This year, the company is focusing on getting the Jeep brand to India and the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee both are coming to India by this October. These are again the real SUVs, which do not just have presence, but are also capable off-roaders as well.

The Grande Punto's Adventure model will come into existence in 2014 and it will get the fascia of the new Grande Punto. This year, Fiat will focus on increasing its touchpoints- the exclusive Fiat showrooms and also getting the Jeep brand into the Indian car market.