Fiat India has revealed its intentions to introduce its Abarth brand in domestic market by the end of 2013. The auto maker is believed to be working towards launching a special version of Grande Punto premium hatchback under the moniker of Abarth in India. The Italian auto giant has also revealed plans of establishing a localised assembly for Abarth Punto, which will raise many eyebrows among auto aficionados.
According to Autocar India, Fiat is expected to launch its Abarth made Grande Punto at an introductory price tag of around Rs. 8-9 lakhs in the country. The pricing may appear a little over-the-top for a premium hatch retailed in Indian the market, which makes its launch and local reception all the more interesting. The Italian automobile giant will have to find some major arguments in terms of engine performance and features installed in Abarth Punto, in order to support its exorbitant price tag in the market.
At present, the Fiat Grande Punto is offered to domestic audience in both petrol and diesel guises. It is anticipated that the engine incorporated within this premium hatch's petrol variant will belt out 66 bhp of power, whereas the diesel variants will be available with a motor churning out 75 bhp and 89 bhp of highest powers. Sources suggest that the Italian auto major would be installing a 1.4 litre T-Jet engine under the hood of its upcoming Abarth Punto, which could roll out an astounding maximum power output of over 160 bhp. Hence, upon its launch in the Indian passenger market, Abarth Punto could give many prominent models a run for their money in terms of engine performance.
Further, in order to support Abarth Punto's 160+ bhp output power ability, Fiat will have to improve suspension system, redesign chassis and enhance braking system of the existing Grande Punto. However, it is the local assembly that has been generating immense media interest and market hype regarding the upcoming premium hatchback from Fiat. There is no doubt that the Italian auto maker has a beast in offing for the Indian market and the news has just delighted several car enthusiasts of the country.
