Fiat India, today launched the 1.2litre Punto Fire Dynamic and Emotion, taking the battle of B+ hatchback segment to a newer height. The new Punto Fire 1.2 petrol with features that would envy anyone was launched for start price of Rs 4,72, 284 (ex showroom Mumbai).
Punto has emerged as the hottest selling car for Fiat and has been on a roll since its launch. With the launch of Punto 1.2 Fire, the officials said they are "now" in the market for a tough competition. The Punto 1.2 Emotion will come at a price of Rs 5,04, 279 (ex showroom Mumbai).
The Punto Fire comes with a tilt steering, front power windows, fire prevention system and programmed service reminder in its entry level 1.2 Active variant. The 1.2 Dynamic will offer rear power windows and central locking system. As an introductory offer, Fiat is also giving away music system in the 1.2 Dynamic. Meanwhile, the 1.2 Emotion variant will come an integrated music system, fog lamps, electric mirrors, dual tone dashboard and split seats.
Speaking during the launch of the two new variants, Rajeev Kapoor, president and CEO, Fiat Automobiles India said, "The hatchback segment is the most happening in India and has seen a 50% growth in 2009. In fact, 60% of car sales happen in this category and we have had a 5.5% market share till now and with more variant launches in the coming months, we would be looking at doubling the sales."
Elaborating on the reasons behind coming out with a car with so many features and at an affordable price, he said, "During the last couple months of we have been observing the customer needs and saw that the Punto Active was the most preferred of the lot. So thus we decided to tap that market and offer more features at a reasonable price tag."
Ravi G Bhatia, vice-president, Fiat India said that Rs 4-5lakh category is seeing a lot activity and the automobile sector in India is growing at a tremendous pace. "Look at the number of cars that has come in the category, so it was imperative that we also be a part of the game. Fiat has been looked upon as an expensive car but with these two launches we want to change that image."
On the image that Fiat has that cost of ownership is high, he said that that is also slowing changing and that the company has been doing some serious activity to see that spare parts are available easily. He added, "And since localisation has set in, the cost of ownership will also come down drastically for Fiat cars. We are also opening dealerships all over India which should also help us change the image."
The Fiat Punto 1.2 comes in eight colours: Bossa Nova White, Exotica Red, Minimal Grey, Hip Hop Black, Medium Grey, Electric Blue and 2 new colours i.e. Fox Trot Azure and Tuscan Wine.
