Tuesday, March 11, 2014
2012 Fiat Bravo E torQ

A modern automobile, packed with technology, with excellent level of comfort, safety and performance. Manufactured in Brazil, the new Fiat Bravo has exceeding attributed to be a strong rival in the prestigious segment of medium hatchbacks. And it arrives to consolidate Fiat’s innovative reputation, proving that evolution does not know limits.
And evolution is really its brand. Fiat Bravo arrives to please the most demanding consumer: differentiated design, cutting-edge technology, with equipment that makes it truly complete; generous internal space with a lot of sophistication; besides sportiveness, with its ined and high efficiency mechanics.
An exactly beautiful automobile. Without doubt, the design is one of Fiat Bravo’s strengths. Its aggressive and dynamic lines – inspired partly in the design of the Large Family automobiles – bear sportiveness together with the celebrated Italian design, but maintaining the new family feeling of the Fiat models.
Fiat Bravo arrives with two potent motorizations – the national 1.8 16V E.torQ with mechanical transmission or Dualogic, and the imported 1.4 T-Jet with 6-gear transmission – and three finishing versions – Essence, Absolute and T-Jet – very well equipped.


Fiat Bravo, for example, can be equipped with up to seven airbags – two frontal, two front sides, two for the protection of occupants’ heads, besides one for protection of the driver’s knees. With Dual Drive® electric steering, it arrives with avant-garde technology like fog lights with cornering system, NAV™ Radio, Xenon headlights, front parking sensor, folding external rearview mirrors and a new Skydome sunroof.
Within the best Fiat tradition, the new Fiat Bravo brings a lot of technology. There are diverse equipment that make the driver’s life easier or that broadens the occupants’ safety, some of which make their debut in the Fiat series, in models of the segment or even in Brazil. They contribute to make Fiat Bravo a complete automobile, equipped with all resources to offer the best and safest life on board. Get to know them.
Contained within NAV™ Radio. Novelty in the Fiat series, the system adds RDS (Radio Data System) radio, MP3, CD player, trip computer functions and satellite navigation system (GPS). The device interface is a 6.5 inch liquid crystal screen, 256 colors and 400 x 240 pixel resolution.



For the new model Fiat Automóveis offers two years of contractual guarantee and five years for perforating corrosion guarantee. During the validity of the general guarantee the Fiat Bravo owner has right to Confiat 24 hour assistance, which executes emergency services like towing, mechanical emergency and reserve vehicle in any place in Brazil.
The scheduled checkups occur every 15 thousand kilometers. The same kilometer run is valid for oil changes, unless there is severe use: in this case, the company recommends changing the oil every 7.5 thousand km. In case the automobile operates less than this, oil changes must be annual.
source:zulva.com,automotivedesignnews.com,autoclubcar.com

Saturday, February 22, 2014
Fiat Freemont AWD 2012












- Fiat Freemont AWD, 2012
The Fiat Freemont evokes a sense of freedom, and the feeling that this vehicle can face up to any situation that everyday life might bring. Today, with the new AWD (All-Wheel Drive) version, the model further accentuates its multi-faceted soul created by crossing the versatility and presence on the road characteristic of a SUV, the typical handling of a station wagon and the 7-seat passenger room of an MPV.
The Fiat Freemont AWD is the four-wheel drive version matched with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet 2 and 280 HP 3.6 V6 petrol engines, both offered with the new six-speed automatic transmission. It is a technologically sophisticated and completely automated system that allows the driver to control the vehicle in extreme conditions in total safety. The new all-wheel version aims at consolidating the already remarkable results so far achieved. In just six months of sales, the first Fiat vehicle produced from the partnership with the Chrysler Group won more than 25,000 orders to become the best-selling 7-seat car today in Italy.
All-wheel drive for the greatest safety under all driving conditions
The Fiat Freemont AWD active four-wheel drive system is on-demand, and it is equipped with an electronic control unit which uses sensors to detect the grip of the four wheels and decides when to transmit traction to the rear. The system intervenes on surfaces where the wheels may not have good grip (mud, snow, ice...) to ensure maximum traction and no limits to the routes the vehicle can take, or in the case of asphalt surfaces, to ensure additional traction and greater safety on bends.
Specifically, the electronic system modulates torque transfer through the use of electronically controlled coupling (ECC). Since it only operates on demand, the system contributes to containing fuel consumption. In addition, ECC on the AWD system is more flexible and more accurate than a viscous coupling or a Torsen® system. In addition, the control unit also interfaces with the ESP and the traction control system.
Multijet 2 and 3.6 V6 petrol engines with six-speed automatic transmission
The new AWD version can be equipped with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet 2 with variable geometry and the powerful Chrysler Group Pentastar 3.6 litre engines. Both engines are combined with a new six-speed automatic transmission that ensures excellent performance together with precise and quiet operation to provide ultimate comfort and drivability.
25,000 orders in 6 months for the best-selling 7-seat crossover in Italy
The new all-wheel version aims at consolidating the already remarkable results so far achieved. In just six months of sales, the first Fiat vehicle produced from the partnership with the Chrysler Group won more than 25,000 orders to become the best-selling 7-seat car today in Italy.
The model is also winning over new types of customers coming from other areas and who are approaching the Fiat brand for the first time. As many as 65% of them are target customers, one of the highest values ever obtained by a Fiat car. Moreover, these figures are certified by results no less important as far as customer satisfaction is concerned. The first market analyses show that the Fiat Freemont has met with the highest level of satisfaction for a Fiat model since the 500 was launched.
Saturday, January 18, 2014
2012 fiat doblo Specifications Image Review
Highly acclaimed and with more than a million variants sold since itfirst went on sale in 2000, the Doblo has forged a formidablereputation as a hard-working hold-all. And whether it’s for leisure orwork the new model aims to cement its standing with best in classinterior space and lowest exhaust emissions.
Eight versions of the Doblo featuring seating for up to seven willbe available when it goes on sale this month, with prices ranging from£12,295 to £17,145 (OTR). As well as a sophisticated new appearance,all incorporate innovative bi-link rear suspension for a high level ofcomfort. The longest wheelbase in the segment doesn’t just mean moreroom for passengers but more space for their luggage too, with a roomy790-litre boot that can be expanded to a class-topping 3200 litres.
There is a choice of three high-tech engines, all of which producemore power and torque than their predecessors while drinking less fueland emitting less carbon dioxide. The 1.6 16v and 2.0-litreturbodiesels employ Fiat’s ground-breaking MultiJet technology tocombine best-in-class fuel consumption and exhaust emissions withlively yet smooth responses. They also feature a new six-speed manualgearbox while the 1.6 will also become available with an automatic.


The interior of the 2011 Fiat Doblo has been designed with family requirements in mind. The company says it offers safety and comfort with a high degree of functionality. The 2011 Fiat Doblo comes as standard with five seats, but the seating capacity can be increased to seven seats with the addition of a third row.
The 2011 Fiat Doblo comes equipped with a Hill Holder function, ESP Electronic Stability Program, EBD Electronic Brake Distribution and ABS anti-lock brakes.


An innovative software program developed with Microsoft, called eco:Drive, is available to new Fiat Doblò drivers. The system uses the USB port to analyse the driving style helping the driver to optimise behaviour in terms of consumption and hence emissions.
Specifically, eco:Drive gathers information on vehicle efficiency and your driving styles as you drive. All data is sent through the USB port of the Blue&Me infotainment system to a standard USB key, which can then be read on a computer. You can then take a careful look at fuel consumption and emissions for each trip (and create your own eco:Index) and get tips on how to achieve a more eco-friendly driving style. You can actually improve your score by progressing through a series of tutorials: motorists who are keen on becoming more eco-responsible drivers can expect a 15% improvement in their driving style, which means cutting CO2 emissions by 15% and an annual fuel saving of 120 to 200 Euros.
Specifically for the eco:Drive system, the Fiat brand was recently nominated "Green Champion" by the Green Organisation, a group devoted to acknowledging, rewarding and promoting best environmental practices worldwide.

Eight versions of the Doblo featuring seating for up to seven Will be available Pls it goes on sale this month, with prices ranging from £ 12.295 to £ 17.145 (OTR). As well as a sophisticated new appearance, all incorporate innovative bi-link rear suspension for a high level of comfort. The Longest wheelbase in the segment does not just mean more room for passengers but more space for Their luggage too, with a roomy 790-liter boot That can be expanded to a class-topping 3200 liters.
There is a choice of three high-tech engines, all of the which Produce more power and torque than Their predecessors while drinking less fuel and emitting less carbon dioxide. The 1.6 16V and 2.0-liter turbodiesels employ Fiats ground-breaking MultiJet technology to combine best-in-class fuel consumption and exhaust emissions with lively yet smooth responses. They also feature a new six-speed manual gearbox while the 1.6 Will Become also available with an automatic.
The 1.4 16V petrol engine range is the perfect starter with a punchy 95bhp, and like its diesel siblings it complies with Euro 5 emissions standards. Whatever the engine, all models come with Start & Stop and also feature a gearshift indicator to tell you Pls its the most fuel-efficient moment to change gear.

The Fiat Doblò is designed and built to achieve the highest levels of safety. It is the result of the many devices offered (standard or optional according to market or outfit) starting from those devoted to passive safety which equip the entire range: front airbags and next-generation side bags, which are larger in size with respect to traditional side bags for protecting both the head and the chest.
The road holding of the new Fiat Doblò is constant and predictable through the adoption of electronic dynamic control systems for braking and steering. There is the ABS system with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and, above all, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with Hill Holder to assist starting uphill (this is the only vehicle in its segment to have this function available across all engines).
Additionally, the new model has all the dynamic and comfort features that allow users to embark comfortably and safely on any journey. There is a powerful and effective braking system, tyres designed specifically for maximum comfort and safety, and the innovative suspension structure: independent-wheel McPherson type at the front and independent-wheel Bi-link with anti-roll bar at the rear. These are a state-of-the-art solution for improving comfort, road-holding and driveability, increasing roominess and on board space and lowering the loading threshold.
source:netcarshow.com,benzsblogspot.com,zulva.com

Saturday, October 5, 2013
Fiat Strada 2013





- Fiat Strada, 2013
Fiat Strada will be available in Italian dealerships from the end of January 2012. Made in the FIASA plant in Betim (Brazil), the new model will follow in the footsteps of South Americas leading light transport vehicle. With no fewer than 127,800 vehicles sold worldwide, the Fiat Strada was the second most popular Fiat Professional model after the Fiat Ducato in 2011.
The Fiat Strada comes in three outfits (Working, Trekking, Adventure) and three body types (Short Cab, Long Cab, Crew Cab) for a total of six different versions. The most important innovation is the introduction of the Crew Cab version (for Working and Adventure versions), which can comfortably carry four people while maintaining a loading capacity of up to 650 kg at the same time.
Equipped with a powerful 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet 16v Euro 5 engine, the model is both versatile and multifunctional. This is demonstrated by the Working single cab version for professionals who are looking for a "purely commercial vehicle". Interesting is the new crew cab version for mixed use allowing up to four people to be carried plus tools and materials.
For the most demanding uses, the E-Locker electronic locking differential is available to help tackle slippery terrain. All these features allow it to compete with larger pick-up trucks but with the added advantage of lower purchase price, running costs and fuel consumption.
Prices (before tax) range from 12,900 euros for the 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet 16v Working Single Cab version to 16,000 euros for the top-of-the-range 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet 16v Adventure Crew Cab version.
Style
The style conveys the image of a strong, dynamic and functional vehicle capable of good performance and extremely low running costs. The front end is one of the most noticeable innovations of the new model. The tougher, no-nonsense bumper has a renewed design with two air vents now grouped in a single rectangular box and the new headlights (single-lens for the Working outfit and double-lens for the Trekking). Much more assertive is the front of the Adventure version: painted in matching body colour it has a black grille and chrome-plated inserts framed by an insert which continues over the wheel arch protection. The integrated fog lights are fitted in the lower part.
The Long Cab and Crew Cab versions have lengthwise roof bars and spoiler with integrated third brake light in addition to plenty of room in the passenger compartment.
The overall dimensions of the vehicle are practically unchanged with respect to the previous series: length 4409 mm (4457 mm for the Adventure version), width 1664 (1740 mm for the Adventure versions) and a wheelbase of 2718 mm.
The Fiat Strada inside plenty of comfort inside for occupants and is very carefully designed throughout. This is demonstrated by the new upholstery, the brand-new dashboard and the original clear, easy-to-read instruments. Ergonomic, antisubmarining seats, the height-adjustable steering wheel (standard on Trekking and Adventure) and the climate control system (standard on Adventure) make travelling and working on the Fiat Strada even more pleasant, comfortable and safe.
Load compartment
A strong point of the Fiat Strada is its large rear box, which is 1685 mm long (1332 mm on long cab versions, 1082 on crew cab versions), and 1300 mm wide (1070 mm between wheel arches). Large and with a regular shape to make it easy to exploit to the full, it is provided with scratch-resistant protective lining designed to withstand extreme temperatures.
Robust hooks used to fix the transported objects in total safety are arranged on the sides and bottom of the box and intelligently placed, so as not to hinder loading and unloading operations. Access to the load compartment is also facilitated by the rear board, covered in non-slip material which can be folded by 90° and now even removable. It can bear a weight of 300 kg. The payload including driver ranges from 630 to 705 kg according to the version, while the gross vehicle weight is 1915 kg. The towable weight is 1000 kg.
Engine
The Fiat Strada is up for any challenge with its brilliant 1.3 MultiJet 16v Euro 5 engine, which delivers a maximum power of 95 HP and a torque of 200 Nm (20.4 kgm at 1500 rpm).
Equipped with variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler, the engine ensures excellent performance with low running costs. Consumption is virtually the same as the previous Euro 4 85 HP engine (up to 5.3 litre/100 km in the combined cycle). This is even more remarkable when compared to that of the bulky pick-up trucks made by competitors which all link high consumption to high power.
Range
The Fiat Strada offers plenty of standard equipment: new instruments with trip computer, height-adjustable steering wheel (on Trekking and Adventure), door mirror manually adjustable from the inside and ABS. Additional standard features of the Fiat Strada Adventure include climate control system, fog lights, alloy wheels with 205/65 R15 oversized, lug tread tyres.
For extra versatility on the most demanding missions, Adventure versions come with a new standard electronic locking differential called E-Locker to effectively assist tackling slippery terrain in general, where the extremely performance typically offered by a 4X4 is not needed.
In detail, the system can lock the front differential, providing all the available torque to the wheel with the best grip to get the vehicle out of tricky situations: "off-road-like" performance combined with all the winning features of a 4x2. The E-Locker is convenient because it does not imply the extra costs of four-wheel drive, it does not penalise tare and payload and it has no impact on consumption and running costs (because the vehicle consumes like a 4x2 when the system is off). Proof of the Adventures off-road personality is the dashboard which, on E-Locker versions, is complemented by a supplementary compass and roll and pitch meter instrument.
Finally, when it comes to comfort, the Fiat Strada has a long list of optional equipment for customising your vehicle: radio with CD player, climate control system, sun roof, leather steering wheel (Adventure only) and alloy rims.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Review 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
With the lovable MINI Cooper, parent company BMW has shown that you can effectively market and sell a small, fun to drive, retro chic car in North America and find a captive, loyal audience. Hold on, you may be thinking, isnt this about a Fiat? Of course it is. My point here is that Fiat is borrowing heavily from MINIs marketing playbook. And how can you blame them? It worked. MINI showed that you can build a brand around one iconic car reborn as a modern conveyance, yet still full of character. Fiat started with the standard 500, then added the 500C with its clever peel back canvas roof. The third member of the Fiat 500 family is the Abarth, and trust me, if you have an enthusiast bent, this is the one you want.
When the Fiat 500 arrived here in 2011 as a 2012 model, hopes were high-50,000 cars sold in the US high. It didnt happen. At the end of 2011, just under 20,000 500s found homes in America. What happened? Well, blame history. See, the Mini Cooper was officially imported for a small period of time in North America, and poof, it was gone. Just a memory of an endearing car. And MINI returned to North America with parent BMW, so confidence was high. Fiat left North America in disgrace in 1980 with a horrible reputation for rust and reliability issues. In other words, the buying public just wasnt sure what to expect-so they hesitated.
So along comes the Abarth-the high performance, and costliest Fiat 500 available. With a reality check from last year sales, Fiat went ultra-conservative on sales predictions, with maybe 1,000 takers for the year. When Fiat started taking orders in April, boom-1,000 orders. Fiat tripled to max capacity of the Abarth at its Mexico plant to 3,000 cars. And after a mere two months on the market, Fiat announced the 500 Abarth was sold out for 2012.
So, you may ask, what is the attraction? To the casual passer-by, you might not be able to distinguish the Abarth from lesser 500s. The Abarth sits lower, and features its own unique front fascia (to make room for the intercoolers). Every inch a 500, Fiat has still managed to take out the cute chic retro car features. Note the lack of chrome, and ultra cool mod paint colors to choose from. The chrome is more subtle, and colors are restricted to white, grey, black or red. Our test cars black 17 alloys, offset by red brake calipers looked most proper here, and leaves no mistake this is not the cutesy Fiat 500 for twentysomething fashionistas.
Inside, the 500 Abarth appears similar to other 500s, but closer inspection reveals some subtle, but noteworthy differences. The Abarth leather steering wheel is a joy to hold, and the red stitching on the wheel, shifter, e-brake handle and dash cap add a sporty and luxurious touch to the cabin of what started life as an economy car. In addition to the turbo boost gauge, you will also notice Fiat has ditched the retro font for the center gauge cluster in exchange for a more modern look. The gorgeous and supportive sport seats on our test car was icing on the cake. But as in all 500s, you do have a high seating position, and sit fairly upright. I had no problem getting comfortable at the helm, however.
So weve confirmed the Abarth looks the part inside and out, but thats nothing if the performance isnt there to back up the promise the package offers. The Abarth is powered by a 1.4L MultiAir turbocharged four, rated at 160hp. A five-speed manual is the only available transmission, so if you cant work three pedals, you dont get to play. At 160hp, that may not sound like much, as cars like the MINI Cooper S and VW GTI easily surpassing that figure. Keep in mind the Abarth is smaller and lighter, and that makes up for a lack of horsepower. Fuel economy figures of 28/34 MPG city/highway are impressive for a hot hatch.
But talking about the numbers here misses the point completely. I make a terrific alfredo sauce, and I could show you the recipe. You would see the ingredients and measurements, yet never know how it tastes. And so it is with the Abarth. Turn the key and the car emits a glorious bark, settling into a tense idle. It is perhaps the greatest sounding four cylinder engine I have ever heard. In the Abarth, it is nearly impossible to resist blipping the throttle, downshifting when you dont really need to, just to hear that exhaust note. Yes, the Abarth is quick off the line, offers plenty of grip and a firm, but hardly bone-jarring ride. Sure, the GTI will likely run circles around the Abarth, but in comparison, the execution is so clinical. The Abarth is not perfect, but is so full of soul and character it is impossible to resist its charm, and that seductive siren of an exhaust note.
So, what is the price of admission for this mini Italian hot hatch? A very reasonable $22,000USD, and well-equipped. Our test car added Performance Leather seats, the Safety & Convenience Package (auto climate control, XM satellite radio, alarm), red mirror caps, TomTom GPS navigation (skip this) and 17 painted alloys. Including delivery, our Fiat 500 Abarth rang in at $26,200. If were comparing, a GTI and MINI Cooper S start at a good $2,000 more than the Abarths base price.
I feel the success of the Abarth in North America is a well-deserved boost of confidence to Fiat as it still is finding its way on the other side of the Atlantic. I understand this is the car the real Italian car fans were holding out for, us ex Fiat and Alfa Romeo drivers who appreciated that Italian driving goodness could be attained in an affordable package. Fiat was smart to recognize the Abarth name would only resonate with car geeks like myself in America, so why not hire bad-ass Charlie Sheen and Romanian supermodel Catrinel Menghia to promote their hottest ride? And, it worked. The 2013 Abarths will soon be available. My advice? Take your place in line, and you will thank me the moment you turn the key. Its that good.
Related posts:
- 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth-Sold Out!
- At the Festival: Fiat Abarth 850 TC
- Review: 2012 Fiat 500C
- Review: 2012 Fiat 500 Sport
- Abarth shows off at Mugello
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
2012 Fiat Freemont review
