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Fiat At The 61st Frankfurt International Motor Show Review

September 2005
Filed under: FIAT Car News | FIAT Headlines
For the 61st Frankfurt International Motor Show, Fiat has prepared a stand with strong stylistic and architectural appeal, divided into four areas, where visitors can experience the spirit that is behind the brand's revival.

New Fiat Croma

The first regards Energy that is a distinctive feature of the Grande Punto; the second is the versatility of the Fiat Idea MY; the third is Enjoyment, a key word for the Panda 4x4 with the 70 bhp 1.3 Multijet engine; and the fourth zone is dedicated to Substance, the concept around which the new Fiat Croma was created and developed.
The exhibition area clearly could not only 'contain' the cars, but necessarily had to create an emotional experience on a par with the many, important automotive novelties. Innovative, metallescent materials were used to achieve this goal, combining them with attractive graphic and chromatic effects that hark back to a number of key words of the Futurist movement: dynamism, speed, power and energy. A striking kaleidoscope of words, sounds and colours that overwhelmed Eighteenth century art, giving birth to a new cultural season in which, for the first time, technology and scientific progress were exalted by new languages and artistic forms. And it is this creative force that we find today on the Fiat stand. The entire exhibition area is developed around the concept of 'energy', as we can see, for example, from the graphic use of coloured spots which combine with dynamic lighting to create the right framework to set off the concept of 'moving passion' that lies behind the Grande Punto project. All the spotlights are focused on the new model which, on one hand reflects the passions of Fiat and its employees for cars, speed and competition; on the other, it is the spirit of a customer who is attracted by the values of beauty, dynamism, colour, passion and movement. This is why we can say that the area where the Grande Punto is on display, conveys energy and is the fulcrum of the entire stand, from which it spreads out in different directions: versatility, enjoyment and substance.

The Grande Punto

The stand at Frankfurt hosts six versions of the new model that was presented to the international press last week, at a spectacular, symbolic event held in Turin. First of all, there are two versions equipped with the brilliant 77 bhp 1.4 engine, both in the Dynamic specification: one is a 3-door version 'clothed' in a pearlescent black with orange/black seats and a pearly orange facia; the second is a 5-door, with light blue bodywork and light blue/black seats and pearly light blue facia. There are also two Grande Punto Emotions, the most lavish outfit in the range, powered by the new 90 bhp 1.3 Multijet with a variable geometry turbo: the 3-door has an Electric blue body (with blue/black seats and a facia in sand-coloured brushed PVC) while the 5-door has sand bodywork (the same colour as the refined leather seat upholstery and the brushed PVC facia). Both cars have the large electrical sunroof that is also featured on the fifth Grande Punto, the most assertive version in the range: the Sport version equipped with the 130 bhp 1.9 Multijet engine. The car on display is even more attractive because of its orange bodywork, black leather seats and dark grey facia. And finally, the sixth car is particularly worthy of attention: it is the Grande Punto Rally Super 2000 which will compete in the various national and international Rally Championships. On show with Pearl white three coat paintwork and powered by a 2000 cc aspirated engine, this gutsy car has a maximum power output of about 280 bhp, and 4-wheel drive, derived from the standard two-wheel drive model.

The Fiat idea MY

The protagonist of the area dedicated to 'versatility' is the Fiat Idea MY, the revamped compact MPV, that confirms Fiat's constant attention to the motorist's needs. This attention has now resulted in updated styling and features for a model which since its launch has catered to the tastes of a clientele that appreciates fashion but also wants a comfortable car that satisfies the desire for freedom. The innovative, elegant Fiat Idea MY is the best example of technological progress at the service of man in the automotive world. The equation "innovation and emotion" has always been at the root of Fiat tradition: making advanced technology available to everyone, and offering 'intelligent' solutions that simplify and improve life on all of its models. The Fiat Idea MY is no exception. The new range is represented by two cars in Frankfurt: the first, in the Dynamic outfit, is equipped with the brilliant 95 bhp 1.4 16v and 'dressed' with a unique pearlescent red; the second Fiat Idea, with Electric blue paintwork, is equipped with the powerful 100 bhp 1.9 Multijet engine and the most comprehensive outfit (Emotion).

The Panda 4x4 1.3 Multijet

From Versatility to Enjoyment: this is the key word of the 70 bhp Panda 4x4 1.3 Multijet which makes its world debut. The small 'off-roader' equipped with the revolutionary turbodiesel engine is appearing for the first time, a much awaited novelty that now joins the other available engine (the tried and tested 60 bhp) extending the range which offers two outfits (the Panda 4x4 and the Panda 4x4 Climbing), two specific interiors and eleven body colours. A Climbing version is on the stand in Frankfurt with flaming red bodywork and interiors that continue the theme of red, combined with grey in this case. On the outside, the car stands out for the longitudinal rooftop bars (the roof also opens), 14" alloy wheels, colour coded bumpers and side rubbing strips. And inside, the 4-wheel drive city car has a height-adjustable driver's seat, a secret storage compartment under the front passenger seat, and built-in head-restraints on the split rear seat. The equipment on the Panda 4x4 Climbing 1.3 Multijet includes the sophisticated Connect Nav Plus info-telematic system, automatic climate control, foglights, Dualdrive electric power steering, ABS complete with EBD, front and side airbags, electric mirrors, remote control and an active handle to open the rear tailgate.

The new Croma

The Fiat stand could not be without the new Croma, the car that marks Fiat's return to a segment where it had been a leader in terms of comfort and technological innovation. One fact will suffice: the Croma TDI was launched in 1988, the first direct injection diesel car in the world. Today, the new Croma offers a choice of three turbodiesel engines - the 120 or 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet and the new 200 bhp 2.4 Multijet - once again confirming Fiat Auto's supremacy in the diesel engine field, first with the Unijet system and more recently with the Multijet. Designed by Giugiaro, the new Croma is an evolution of the Station Wagon concept which, like the previous model, aims to become the benchmark for medium-high saloons. This is why it is distinguished by the 'substance' of the concepts expressed: great interior roominess and outstanding comfort; technological innovation in the diesel engine field; and finally, superior quality for a mass produced product. Visitors will be able to admire two versions on the Fiat stand, both equipped with the powerful 200 bhp 2.4 Multijet engine, and the range-topping outfit, with beige leather upholstery and lavish standard equipment.

The many automotive novelties and architectural and graphic elements combine to create a magical atmosphere, conveying creativity and Italian technology. In this emotional setting the public will discover Italian design and the concepts of modernity, creativeness and ease of use that distinguish every product created by Fiat. These same guidelines have always directed its search for new solutions and architectures. It is part of Fiat's heritage to develop models that leave their mark, often anticipating the future with cutting edge engineering solutions. Fiat combines this striking innovation with the unmistakable styling that has always ensured its models are immediately recognisable on our roads.

The Grande Punto

For the Grande Punto, Fiat aims to repeat the historical success of the previous model, without following in its footsteps. Although in theory the car belongs to segment B, its size, equipment and characteristics actually represent an alternative to many segment C cars.

Fiat Grande Punto

The Grande Punto is therefore unique in the world panorama, designed and built to be the new benchmark in stylistic terms, introducing a concept of larger 'dimensions'. The model also reaches safety and quality standards that are particularly high for its segment, it offers the best range of diesel engines and, finally, it has a very competitive price/content ratio. As a result of all these features, the Grande Punto embodies three fundamental qualities, beauty, solidity and brilliance in a highly original way.

The result is a car that embodies the passion and the styling and construction capabilities of a brand that was founded over a century ago. Because this is part of the brand's genetic make-up, and because it contains the roots of the inimitable personality that ensures that we immediately recognise a Fiat from among all the cars we see on the road. There has always been a Fiat car for the people who first discovered the car as an irreplaceable means of individual mobility, and then learned to appreciate cars that are beautiful, reliable and enjoyable to drive, but above all at an accessible price. And the Grande Punto is no exception; in fact it sets new styling, safety and comfort parameters for this category, where the world's best manufacturers are all vying for space. Suffice it to say that the compact segment represents 26% of the Western European car market, in other words, the 'core' of the market, with about 3,750,000 cars sold a year. This is even more so in Italy, where this category accounts for 37% of the market, made up 56% of petrol engines and 44% of diesels.

In order to achieve and maintain the lead in this market bracket, the Grande Punto must make a real leap forward in conceptual terms. Only a few years ago, a car with these dimensions, comfort and equipment would have been considered a 'family car', and certainly not a compact. Which is why only a brand like Fiat could have swept away the classic categories to dictate times and methods, once again creating trends and imposing concepts and innovative solutions. The latest arrival from Fiat takes a generation leap forward compared to the previous model, as the Punto did in relation to the Uno when it was launched in 1993, and the Uno did in relation to the 127. The name lives on, as a wonderful legacy of a car that has been appreciated by 6 million customers of different tastes, ages, nationalities and social extraction.

The three winning qualities of the new model

Developed by Italdesign-Giugiaro together with the Fiat Style Centre, the styling of the Grande Punto stands out in the current automotive scene for the beauty of the exterior line, which is modern, elegant and distinctly 'Italian', a 'Mediterranean' stylistic language where the tapered rounded lines seem to be inspired by the sports cars of the 1950s and 1960s. Like the exterior, the interior of the Grande Punto represents the most evolved expression of Italian styling, thanks to the quality of the materials and the care that went into every detail. The result is a luminous, welcoming, functional environment.

This is a car created to 'excite', but also to express the solidity that comes from superb quality standards. This is borne out by extremely high safety standards, attention to detail that is unusual in this market bracket, and exceptional comfort. This impression is confirmed by the car's external dimensions which put it at the peak of its category: it is 403 cm long, 168 cm wide, 149 cm high and has a wheelbase of 2.51 metres, measurements which translate into an extraordinary amount of interior roominess. The Grande Punto is clearly a car of superior quality: from the very first stages of the project, the team working on it pursued very high quality standards, drawing on a stringent engineering process, based on a very strong platform, while it applied the most advanced, innovative reliability methodologies throughout the model's development and industrialisation.

And finally, the Grande Punto is agile and enjoyable to drive in all situations. A brilliance derived primarily from its engines which combine excellent performance, low fuel consumption and absolute respect for the environment (they are all Euro 4). There are two petrol engines (the 65 bhp 1.2 8v and the new 77 bhp 1.4 8v), and four turbodiesels (the 120 and 130 bhp 1.9 Multijet, the 75 bhp 1.3 Multijet 16v and the new 90 bhp 1.3 Multijet 16v with a variable geometry turbo).

'Value' as a key to success

In other words the stage seems set to repeat the market success of the previous model. A car's success is the result of a successful challenge, a flash of stylistic intuition sustained by studies into new fashion trends, customers' emerging needs and projections regarding market performance. In other words, a difficult recipe, which is then tested by the strictest judge: time. Real success lasts for years. This was evident with the Punto: from 1993 to the present day, over six million people in Europe have bought the car, and twenty-five international juries have rewarded it. Even though the Grande Punto makes its debut, manufacture and marketing of the Punto currently on the market will continue, with petrol, diesel and methane versions, and particularly advantageous offers.

Like the previous model, the Grande Punto plays the same card which has proved such a winner: listening to customers and making sure the product evolves on the basis of their needs. Consistent with the first and most important demand put forward by any customer who buys a car, the new model will offer 'value' above all. This has always been one of the strengths of the Fiat Punto which has led its segment, one where a huge number of new cars have been launched in recent years. Competition is obviously fierce, ready to enter the fray with every means. But this model has never lost ground, competing at the highest levels and always offering an extra something: safety, value for money and a good performance/consumption balance, and constantly striving for innovation. This is of course Fiat's mission: an Italian company that builds cars with original styling and a wealth of intelligent solutions that are therefore capable of guaranteeing a better quality of everyday life. And today the Grande Punto takes up the baton with the precise goal of respecting this commitment to motorists.

Moving Passion

For such an original model, a communications policy has been planned which addresses a young, dynamic public, using fresh, immediate language. One result is the "Mr. Dot" logo, a cheerful P-shaped pictogram which changes appearance according to the situation: from a driver to a little man on skis. There are 50 possible transformations, each with its own personality, the expression of the concept of 'moving passion' that lies behind the Grande Punto project: if on one hand the new model represents the passion shown by Fiat and its employees for cars, speed and racing; on the other hand it is also the spirit of a customer who is attracted by the values of beauty, dynamism, colour, passion and movement. 19 versions have been created, by combining 2 body types (3 or 5 doors), 4 outfits, 6 engines, 13 body colours and 12 types of interior, all at an interesting price. The Grande Punto is also "great" because of its price, which is almost identical to that of today's Punto with the difference that, for the same expense, customers will enjoy a car at the peak of its category with lavish, cutting edge equipment.

A precise response to every need

Styling, emotion, comfort, safety and a good price: these are the guidelines along which the Grande Punto has been developed, a car created for young adults, the very young, today's more active woman, and small contemporary families. To meet the requirements of this heterogeneous public, the Grande Punto proposes typically Italian styling, the symbol of character and refinement, in two bodies: a 3-door version that is more aggressive and dynamic, and will appeal above all to the young, and a 5-door version that exalts the balance between styling and comfort, performance and safety, access and its distinctive look.

Both versions share a broad, comprehensive range with four specification levels, each capable of satisfying different customers who share the same youthful, dynamic spirit. The Active outfit addresses the younger driver, people full of vitality with an open, flexible mentality; the Dynamic version is the right response for those who combine an emotional and a rational approach, while the Grande Punto Emotion is ideal for the motorist who is looking for the equipment of a higher category combined with excellent comfort in a compact. And finally, the Sport version will certainly appeal to customers who want excellent performance and distinctive styling features.

So it is not exaggerated to state that everyone will find the Grande Punto he is looking for, customising it with the many options on offer, and taking advantage of the innovative financial and insurance services created specifically, and the many interesting accessories available from Lineaccessori.

The Fiat Idea MY

Tackling daily life with determination and enterprise, counting on the Fiat Idea, a reliable, versatile 'accomplice'. This compact people-mover has been revamped externally and internally, and the revamped version could not be absent from Frankfurt. It will be on sale at the end of the year.

Fiat Idea MY

The Fiat Idea MY proposes numerous stylistic novelties and features to satisfy the most discerning customers. For example, the new 90 bhp 1.3 Multijet engine will be available, as well as some extremely interesting options, including leather upholstered seats, steering wheels and gear lever knobs.

Elegance and Italian styling

To start with, all versions will be available with 4 new body colours (two blues and two greys) and a number of other changes, which make the front even more elegant and 'clean', underlined by the chromatic contrast between the shiny and reflecting parts and the colour of the bodyshell. Or the two body-coloured rubbing strips and the background to the grille that is now painted Chrome Shadow. Stylistic refinements that are highlighted by the transparency of the lower part of the front headlights, underlining the precious technological aspect of these true stylistic features.

The rubbing strip of the rear bumper is also colour coded (the lower part is now black) while the central grille of the rear lights becomes chromed. The aesthetic changes to the rear of the car are in perfect harmony with those made at the front, and visually accentuate the shoulders, emphasising what is a stylistic trait typical of an SUV.

Changes have also been made to the side view of the Dynamic and Emotion versions; the exterior moulding of the door pillars is now shiny while the external door handles and the side mouldings of the doors are painted to match the bodywork, with the addition of a polished chrome insert.

Harmonious, functional interiors

The stylistic novelties on the outside of the new model do not alter the line that has proved popular with the public, but more changes have been made inside to render the passenger compartment more elegant; with dark shades that underline the quality of the materials better, and the light effects of satin chrome and polished black details.

For example, the air vents, drawer releases and instrument controls are all chrome plated, while the frames of the instrument panel and the gear lever are now an elegant shiny black (on the Dynamic and Emotion versions, the transmission knob is personalised with a satin chrome 'Fiat Idea' gem).

The trims and the upper part of the facia are now painted black (which perfectly matches the dark grey of the lower part and the centre console), as well as the steering wheel, steering column, radio, climate control, and the lower parts of the door panels and trims. The carpet is the same shade throughout the passenger compartment, on the rear shelf and in the luggage compartment.

The ambience in the Fiat Idea MY is more stylish and more lavish, highlighting the new furnishings which are elegant, but also informal and practical. The lower outfits introduce three new shades for the seats which match the panels. On the other hand, the Dynamic and Emotion specifications adopt a new Stainless steel fabric with a technological modern look to the panels and the seats (which are available in shades of black/light blue, black/bronze and black/steel), highlighted by electro-welded features and with black (Dynamic) or leather (Emotion) side strips.

All the strong points of the Fiat Idea

So far we have mentioned the novelties introduced on the revamped Fiat Idea range. But of course all the model's distinctive strengths remain in place: an elegant car, with a simple line, a generous, functional passenger compartment that can meet their most varied demands for space without forgoing brilliance and dynamism. That is not all. Fiat's compact MPV cancels current distinctions between cars of different segments: it handles better than a segment C car, is roomier and more flexible than a segment B, and more compact than an L1 vehicle. And all these features are concentrated in little less than four metres in length, 1.70 metres in width and a height of 1.66 metres.

Original styling

The Fiat Idea is solid and safe, but also original and elegant. It is recognisable on the outside for its wide shoulders and large wheels, 'refined' by a clean, modern line with plenty of personality. The smooth shape communicates a discreet, non-aggressive strength, emphasising the character of the passenger compartment which is a welcoming, protective 'shell', a guarantee of safety as well as a promise of comfort. The latter remains high inside the versatile passenger compartment in which no aesthetic or technical detail has been overlooked. The modern, harmonious design of the cabinetwork and furnishings reflects the excellence levels achieved in the field of ergonomics, acoustic comfort and climate control. The result is an ideal environment in which occupants are always comfortable and relaxed.

The facia is original, with a soft, yielding upper part like that on higher segment models; an original instrument panel is set at the centre and the keys and controls are easy to identify and use. The gearlever is at the centre of the facia, in an ergonomic position close to the steering wheel. There are also two closed storage compartments in the facia, large pockets in the panels, a ceiling-high shelf and a capacious unit between the front seats. All five seats are comfortable, ergonomic and safe. The adaptable rear seats can be adjusted in different positions with a few rapid manoeuvres, and include an unusual, comfortable "bunk" position. In this case, the front seats fold forward into a table while the squab of the rear seats is inclined more than 45°. And the interior space of the Fiat Idea MY can be adapted to the driver's needs, because the front seat folds and the two rear seats slide forward and backward and recline independently.

Elastic engines that respect the environment

Intelligent solutions and innovative, elegant styling. But the Fiat Idea is much more than that. You only have to think of the range of engines on offer, all of which are environment friendly (Euro 4) and perform brilliantly, but are sparing on fuel (among the best in this segment), making for a valid solution in town or out of town. The engines available are a 90 bhp 1.4 16v petrol engine and a 70 bhp 1.3 16v Multijet (a 90 bhp version will be available at year-end), all combined with a manual or robotised 'Dualogic' transmission; a 100 bhp 1.9 Multijet, and a 77 bhp 1.4 8v or a 80 bhp 1.2 16v petrol engine with a mechanical gearbox. The engines have also been made particularly quiet by optimising the position and configuration of the exhaust system.

A car to be enjoyed

Sophisticated technology that is evident in the many devices and systems adopted to guarantee outstanding wellbeing on board; from the innovative 'Skydome' large double opening sunroof, to the sophisticated automatic climate control unit, which allows two different temperatures and air flows to be set simultaneously. And we must not forget that this original compact MPV is the best available on the market in terms of automatic devices to make driving less tiring: from Cruise Control to 'Dualdrive' electric power steering.

Class-topping comfort and safety

A car to be enjoyed, which imparts real emotions, a tangible sense of well-being in all situations. You only have to get into the Fiat Idea MY to discover a particular psycho-physical sensation which for the customer translates into plenty of space and above all space where you need it. It means being able to get in and out of the car easily, and once you are sitting comfortably, being surrounded by an airy, light-filled ambience, thanks to the generous glazing. To achieve this extraordinary level of comfort, the designers have adopted the most up-to-date ergonomic criteria from the conception of the new model. The end results are the values that the Fiat Idea achieves for essential ergonomic functions: roominess, driving posture, access, visibility and reconfigurable space. Drivers between 1.50 and 2 metres in height can be accommodated easily, a record for this segment. And the shoulder width on the front seats is 1402 mm, while that on the rear seats is 1365 mm (both figures lead this class). The roominess coefficient is 99.5%, one of the best in this market bracket. The luggage compartment is also one of the most capacious in this category (320 litres): if more space is necessary, the rear seat folds down to produce an extraordinary loading capacity of 1420 litres up to the roof.

Last but not least, the Fiat Idea MY is one of the safest cars in its segment. It fits up to 6 airbags (dual stage activation on the front bags, side and window bags to protect rear passengers); adjustable front seat belts (with pretensioners and load limiters), 3-point rear belts (including the centre seat), and Isofix anchorage points. In the field of active safety, ABS complete with EBD is standard on the Fiat Idea, while ESP with a Hill Holder to simplify hill starting, and the HBA electronic emergency braking aid are available on request.

The Panda 4x4 1.3 Multijet

The Panda 4x4 makes its debut in Frankfurt, equipped with the 1.3 Multijet engine that delivers 70 bhp (51 kW) at 4000 rpm and peak torque of 14.8 kgm (145 Nm) at 1500 rpm. This revolutionary turbodiesel engine, which respects Euro 4 limits, takes the car to a top speed of 150 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 18 seconds.

Fiat Panda 4x4 1.3 Multijet

In spite of this, fuel consumption is low: just 5.3 litres per 100 km in the combined cycle. The values for the other engine available are also excellent: the well-known 1.2 Fire engine delivers a power output of 60 bhp (44 kW) at 5000 rpm and peak torque of 10.4 kgm at 2500 rpm, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 20 seconds, with a top speed of 145 km/h.

The introduction of the 70 bhp 1.3 Multijet engine now completes the range of the original four-wheel drive version that can tackle any situation and takes everything in its stride; as the advertisement says: 'Don't stop me baby'. The Panda 4x4 immediately conveys the desire to travel in perfect freedom, even in areas that are not really accessible to conventional cars. But this does not detract from the enjoyment of driving this car in the narrow streets of a city centre. The car is ideal for whoever wants both handling and stylistic elegance and 'off-road' qualities. The 2x4 model already has that touch of refinement that makes it a 'fashionable' car.

The range

The range comprises two engines (the 70 bhp 1.3 Multijet and the 60 bhp 1.2), two outfits (Panda 4x4 and Panda 4x4 Climbing), two interiors and eleven body colours. The Panda 4x4 Climbing is a small, elegant 'off-roader', capable of tackling any situation with an extra touch of refinement in the interior and exterior styling, ideal for a dynamic, extrovert public. The range is also offered in an 'entry level' version which maintains all the Climbing's functional features for a more down-to-earth approach, at a really competitive price. The merit goes to its amazing ability to tackle off-road itineraries, its viscous joint drive and high grip tyres. Both outfits have the same compact measurements (the Climbing is 357 cm long, 160 cm wide and 163 cm high) and excellent handling, and both are about five centimetres higher than the conventional model, which significantly enhances the already excellent visibility and the superb control of the road, even on difficult routes, thanks to a turning circle of just 9.6 metres. The car's 'off-road' personality is also the result of a road clearance (in standard A) of 165 mm on the Panda 4x4 Climbing. This impression is reinforced by a number of styling elements that also have a practical 'off-road' function: for example, the front and rear bumpers on the Climbing version include protective shields, and the large rubbing strips are coordinated with small shanks on the wings, and the shield under the engine.

Two different types of tyres are envisaged: the Climbing version is fitted with 185/65-14 (M+S) tyres which are suitable for all types of use, whereas the entry level version fits reinforced 165/70-14 (M+S) tyres with a tread designed for low grip surfaces.

The passenger compartment of the Panda 4x4 is well appointed and refined, and the special fabric upholstery is offered in two different two-tone combinations: grey/red and grey/yellow. And the four-wheel drive version features a generous luggage compartment. With a one-piece or split rear seat, the loading volume extends from a minimum of 200 dm3 to a maximum of 855 dm3 (up to the roof). With the 'split sliding' rear seat, these values are 230 dm3 (with the seat all forward) and 780 dm3.

'Off road' qualities and driving comfort

The Panda 4x4 has a strong personality, able to cater for customers with different demands and tastes, including the growing number of people who love adventure and life in the open air. For them, the new version adopts a permanent four-wheel drive system with a viscous joint and two differentials which kicks in automatically when it is needed, getting the car easily out of any trouble. It is an extraordinary 'explorer' which is quite at ease on rough, difficult terrain, borne out by its 'ramp angle' values in standard A.

First of all, the 'approach' angle, which measures the maximum front angle that an off-roader can negotiate without touching the ground with the bodywork. The second is the 'departure' angle, which is the highest gradient negotiable in reverse, starting from a horizontal plane. The last is the 'camber' angle. i.e. the largest angle that a triangular (isosceles) camber can have before the car touches underneath. The Climbing outfit of the new model achieves the following values: 24° (front), 42° (rear) e 24° (camber), which become 26°, 44° and 23° respectively on the Panda 4x4 outfit. The maximum gradient negotiable is 55% (in standard B, starting on a slope) and 65% (in standard B starting from a level surface).

The four-wheel drive super-mini is extremely comfortable on the road thanks to the specially calibrated, well tested suspension system. There is an independent MacPherson system at the front with transverse lower wishbones anchored to an auxiliary crossbeam and a stabiliser bar connected to the damper. The rear suspension is also of the independent type, with longitudinal trailing arms connected to the subframe with a stabiliser bar.

Safety and equipment

And finally, the car fears no rivals where safety is concerned, starting from the excellent braking system: on the versions powered by the 1.3 Multijet engine, the front wheels fit ventilated discs 257 mm in diameter, with solid 240 mm discs at the rear (all the wheels on the Panda 4x4 1.2 Fire fit 240 mm discs, with ventilated discs at the front). The Panda 4x4 offers ABS with EBD as standard, including MSR (anti-slip control on deceleration) and Dualdrive electrical power steering. The different versions can be customised with several options, including the CONNECT Nav Plus info-telematic system, headlight wash/wipe, automatic climate control and an opening sunroof.

The New Croma

An evolved concept of the Station Wagon, the new Croma revives the name of the historical model which was the benchmark for medium-high saloons from 1985 to 1994, with over 450,000 units manufactured.

New Fiat Croma

Enter the "Comfort Wagon"

Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the new Croma introduces an original 'stylistic' formula, which is made possible by innovative architecture and the adoption of intelligent solutions. The designer explained: 'In 20 years, technological progress and market expectations have evolved rapidly. For example, safety and the effect of fitting airbags in the most effective positions; the services offered by electronics where comfort, active and passive safety and information are concerned. We could say that, compared to the 3-box model of 1985, the new Croma basically takes on board the progress of the people-mover - tall cars that offer more space to be interpreted with the utmost freedom according to circumstances - while it maintains the image of an extremely comfortable saloon, in other words a Comfort Wagon'.

These conditions produce a highly original car which leads its class in certain areas. For example, where access is concerned, thanks to the flat floor and higher front and rear H points; but the new model is also exceptional for roominess, underlined by the generous space above the passengers' heads, the space between the rows of seats (the best in its category) and the high driving position which guarantees better control over the road and enhanced external visibility. The car also has one of the most extensive glazed surfaces (3,254 m2) in this market bracket, and it guarantees excellent acoustic and vibrational comfort, thanks to painstaking ergonomic analysis of the passenger compartment and a specific suspension setting. And finally, depending on the outfit, the car also offers an innovative modular luggage system that adapts perfectly to the most varied requirements. All these features make this the roomiest car in its bracket: the new Croma comes with a single body configuration, 475 cm long, 177 cm wide, and 160 cm high with a wheelbase of 270 cm, measurements that translate into extraordinary interior roominess. The model is in line with the best competition for length and width, and is about 10 cm taller.

Original on the outside, spacious and quiet on the inside. The new Croma is a car created to appeal to people with different needs, tastes and lifestyles, but who all share the same desire to ride in a comfortable car. And for people who want excellent performance, the Croma offers the powerful 200 bhp 2.4 Multijet engine (combined with the 6-speed automatic sequential transmission) which leads its class with a specific power output of 83 bhp/litre.

Class-topping Multijet engines

The new Croma proposes the second type of 'substance' where its engines are concerned: in addition to the two brilliant petrol engines (the 147 bhp 2.2 16v and the 140 bhp 1.8 16v), the model also proposes three turbodiesel Multijet units (the 120 or 150 bhp 1.9 and the new 200 bhp 2.4) which is further proof of Fiat Auto's absolute superiority in this context. The Fiat Group has set extraordinary records in this field, starting with the Croma TDI, which was the world's first direct injection diesel car back in 1986.

To exploit engine performance in full - they all meet the Euro 4 emissions standards and the diesel engines are fitted with particulate traps - the new Croma is available with 5 different types of transmission: all the petrol engines come with 5-speed gearboxes, with the option of the sequential automatic unit on the 2.2 16v, while all the diesel engines come with 6-speed gearboxes, with the sequential automatic transmission as an alternative to the manual system on the 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet, and as standard equipment on the powerful 200 bhp 2.4 Multijet 20V.

The highest quality levels

We can go on to the third aspect of 'substance': quality. The Fiat Croma sets very high quality standards, pursued from the earliest stages of the project. During the various stages of experimentation, the prototypes travelled over 3 million kilometres, testing the car in all types of route and climate conditions. The manufacturing process in the Cassino plant was tested in advance of the normal development stage, and process verification was performed right on the plant's assembly lines. Quality controls, which were already high, were further strengthened by the introduction of a 100 km test route for 100% of pre-production cars.

An extensive range that is excellent value for money

In other words, all the ingredients are in place to repeat the previous model's success. The new Croma plays the same card that proved a winner before: listening to the customer and developing the product on the basis of his desires. Consistent with the first and most important demand that any customer makes when he purchases a car, the new Croma responds by offering 'value' first of all, a comprehensive range of outfits which can be combined to create extensive customisation, guaranteeing the customer a gradual advantage as the level of the outfit increases. For example, by choosing the second Dynamic outfit, the customer benefits from an advantage equal to 40% of the value of the additional features present on this version.

Each outfit has been created with the right level of equipment, with materials designed specifically to create the ideal, comfortable environment modelled around one's wishes: for example, the generous glazing of the double opening sunroof is standard equipment on certain versions. Each outfit offers different fabric upholstery in two tones (dark grey or beige), and even leather upholstery, also in two shades.

So to guarantee the best ratio between price and content, the combination of outfits offered on the new Croma are all very good value for money and above all they are the heirs to an automotive concept that Fiat played a significant part in creating and developing: the large saloon with an elegant, functional appearance. The new Croma combines these winning features with numerous sophisticated devices and systems that make it a new benchmark in its segment. This is borne out by: ESP, Xenon headlights, front seats that minimise the effects of whiplash and up to nine airbags (where safety in concerned), the evolved satellite navigation system (CONNECT Nav+), and the Hi-Fi system with eight speakers and subwoofer (in the audio and info-mobility field); Cruise Control and an automatic transmission with sequential function (for 'stress-free' driving); and 4 specific 16" and 18" alloys (to customise the car aesthetically).

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