The Hindu : New Siena from Fiat stable

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, May 13, 2002

Business

Business

New Siena from Fiat stable

AFTER THE runaway success of the Fiat Palio launched only ten months ago, Fiat has once again made a big come-back by introducing the New Fiat Siena at a gala launch in Banglore on May 4. This is an upgradation of the existing Siena and is 13 mm. longer than its predecessor, this length adds to the rear seat comfort. A wider front track by 173 mm. to give better control to the driver. This car has a brand new look with a strong and emphatic looking front, and the tail has inspiration of the Merc E class. A smart looking car that is going to give a run for money to the competition — be it pricing or performance. The bottom-end product will come standard with a 1.2 petrol engine, air conditioner and a power steering thrown in and is the cheapest in its category beating the Esteem as well.

Based on the famous 178 platforms, there will be four versions of the New Siena on offer, the Siena EX (1.2 petrol), the Siena EL (1.6 petrol) the Siena ELX (1.6 petrol) and the top of the line Siena Maestro (1.6 petrol). The Siena EX is equipped with the new 1.2 litre `FIRE' engine that delivers 72 bhp @ 6000 rpm, aided by a 32 bit microprocessor. The EL, ELX and Maestro are powered by 1596 cc 16-valve DOHC `TORQUE' engine that belts out 100 bhp at 5500 revs. The interiors are designed for comfort, with fine upholstery, full door trims, power windows, power operated rear view mirrors, central locking and an air conditioner with heater. All the four versions come equipped with power steering, 14" rims with wide tyres, and anti-roll bars in front and rear. A sub-frame mounted front suspension and an adequate ground clearance at 170 mm that has also been improved, keeping in mind Indian road conditions. A range of ten colour options such as Silver Frost and Royal Gold, plus four new colours, namely, Ecstasy Purple, Peacock Blue, Hazel Grey and Thunder Black are being offered.

In the new Siena Maestro the interiors are equally appealing with soft plush anti-submarine seats. Chic instrument panels and snazzy dials, one-touch levers to open the fuel tank lid and boot, and an adjustable power steering with tilt mechanism. Adding to the appeal of the car is a Kenwood music system with a 10 CD changer and six speakers, leather steering wheel and gear knob and a wooden-finish dashboard. Driver side air-bag (optional) that inflates in 114th of a second and anti locking brake system (optional).

Commenting on the launch, M. P. Bianchi, Managing Director, Fiat India Pvt. Ltd. said, "The new Siena will add another important dimension to the face of Fiat in the Indian market. Till now, we have been focused on offering complete mobility solutions with a strong emphasis on `Technology' and `Value for Money.' The new Siena will have all these attributes, plus more, it will reinforce the `proud to own' association, with the Fiat brand name in India Re-skinned by the world-famous `designer of the century' Giorgio Giugiaro, (who is also the creator of the Palio).''

Fiat dealerships have been increased from 51 to 62, and by the end of the year the number will touch 75.

The ex-showroom (Delhi) prices are: 1.6 Maestro — (Rs. 6.70 lakhs); 1.6 ELX — (Rs. 6.10 lakhs); 1.6 EL — (Rs. 5.65 lakhs); 1.2 EX — (Rs. 4.85 lakhs).

This car with all the goodies being offered share the same engine and many other parts as that of the Palio thereby reducing the inventory list and investment of the dealer and logically should make the after sale, service, cheaper, provided the dealer is willing to share the spoils with the customer. In the `C', segment it will give competition to Maruti Esteem, Hyundai Accent, Ford Ikon and Opel Corsa and food for thought to other manufacturers. The price and popurlity war has just begun in India ... ... ... . lets see who wins but the customer will definitely gain.

Tutu Dhawan

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