Fiat betting big on the 500 moniker, leaving the Punto behind

Fiat’s new strategies to recover from its losses have been read with much interest. Fiat recently tried to remember its golden era with the launch of a limited edition of the Fiat 500 harking back to 1957. Recent developments in the company are now pointing towards its decision to further strengthen the 500 nameplate and in the process phase out the Punto.

Fiat will replace its ageing Punto B-segment hatchback with a new five-door member of the 500 family, as reported in a British automotive publication. The retro-themed five-door car will be based on the platform of the current Punto, the same that underpins the 500L and the upcoming 500X. The car boasts of classic styling cues carried over from the 500, such as the two-part headlights, short bonnet and steeply raked pillars. This will take the expanded 500 range to eight separate models.

While Fiat is yet to make an official announcement, the five-door is expected to share engines with other 500s. That means four-cylinder diesels and petrols, plus a sub-100g/km 875cc TwinAir. Fiat plans to base its future strategy around the 500 and Panda brands.

Power will be supplied by a range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinders, and the coarse TwinAir two-cylinder turbo will be available as well.

Apart from the cars, the company has also turned its attention to their plants to boost sales of its luxury models. Fiat SpA (F) may invest as much as USD 12.3 billion (Rs 75,217 crore) on new models to end their losses in the European sector and revive their nearly empty Italian factories.

Source:AutoExpress