Fiat Linea facelift for India around the corner

The Fiat Linea facelift hit the global markets towards the end of last year but an Indian launch was kept on hold. The cloud seems to have moved as Fiat is now testing the facelift in India ahead of a much awaited launch in the country. The update will be confined to cosmetic changes that are expected to improve the overall appeal of the car.

The facia gets a revised the grille and front bumper with the addition of a lip while fog lamps and headlights remain unchanged. The same is the case with the taillight cluster on the rear where the change is confined to the repositioning of the number plate to the boot. The overall addition of chrome is one that is most evident; and the one that will appeal to a lot of Indian buyers due to its premium-like perception.

The interior gets a revised three-layered dash with a new integrated audio system and improved AC vents. The steering wheel, gear lever and most other switches and knobs remain untouched, however, the inside has taken its cue from the outside styling in terms of its chrome addition.

Under the hood, the Linea will still be powered by the 1.3-litre Multijet diesel, 1.4-litre FIRE and the 1.4-litre T-Jet petrol engine. Performance figures of none of the engines are expected to be altered either implying, the 1.4-litre T-Jet will remain to be the post powerful variant producing 114PS power and 207Nm torque.

Fiat had earlier announced they expect to refresh their entire product line up based on the 500 and the Panda models by 2015. There is also news of a next generation Linea around the same time which will be likely based on the 500 platform. For now though, the current Linea will be sold alongside the new model under the Classic badge; that is until the new line up arrives. 

Source: AutocarIndia