Fiat’s presentation over its future plans for new vehicles to be launched in global markets has left the rumour mill humming. According to the inter-web buzz, Fiat is contemplating to bring Punto’s replacement in European market by 2016 followed by the domestic market in 2017. The successor model of Punto hatchback will not just don a new look but it will also get a new name. If speculations are to be believed, Punto’s replacement will be called, ‘500 Plus’.
Punto’s replacement is expected to be built on the new global small platform which is likely to be an extended version of Chrysler’s small architecture. The car in question will fill the slot between three door 500 hatchback that measures 3,840 mm and 500L small minivan that is 4,150 mm long. Fiat is thinking on the lines to produce new hatchback at the company’s Poland unit, a staggering investment of around 2.36 billion zlotys will also be made to revamp Tychy facility.
Under the Fiat’s launch plan for Indian market, 12 new products have been zeroed in. These 12 new vehicles will be launched in domestic market within next five years. Besides Punto replacement, the company will launch Punto facelift for the time being until the comprehensively tweaked version is brought to the India market in 2017. A crossover, dubbed Avventura will also pit against the likes of newly launched Etios Cross and Volkswagen Polo in the domestic market. Avventura will mark its entry in India by 2014 end. The Italian auto maker will also induct its performance oriented brand, Abarth in India in 2014.
This isn't it, the company will also pluck Punto Abarth from its global bouquet for the Indian market, Jeep brand launch is also on cards. Both Jeep and Punto Abarth are expected to be launched in India by 2015. India is a vital market for Fiat, the company eyes increasing sales in Asia Pacific region of which India is a significant part.
