Regular readers of Indian Autos Blog will know that Fiat will be launching its performance brand Abarth in India this year.
The Fiat Punto Abarth is expected to be the first offering to sport the scorpion badge in India. AutoCarIndia.com reports that the Fiat Punto Abarth will be locally produced to make it more affordable, unlike the Mini Coopers S which is a CBU import.
The report states that the Fiat Punto Abarth will be powered by a beefed up version of the 1.4 T-Jet turbo petrol motor which powers the Linea. The engine will be squeezed to deliver around 165 bhp thereby justifying the Abarth badge.
Fiat could tune the chassis, steering and suspension to create a more driver focused car. It should be an easy task considering the fact that the regular Punto itself has a meritorious driving dynamics. Stiffer springs, sturdier anti roll bar and more capable brakes will make the Punto Abarth easily a riot to drive. Fiat would express the performance gains with body graphics, bumpers and wheels that echo its new character.
With the local assembly, Fiat can position the Abarth variant at an affordable price range which we hope will be in this side of Rs. 10 lakhs. Fiat could sell the Abarths through 'Abarth Studios' in select dealerships, exclusive Abarth dealership chain is also a possibility.
However, we can't resist from wondering why not Fiat come up with an India only Punto Abarth diesel which could make use of the 1.6 litre MultiJet. Won't that have more takers in India than a thirsty turbo petrol?
[Source: Autocarindia.com]
