News

FIAT 500BYGUCCI STRIPS OFF

06 September 2011

As a result of the interest attracted by Fiat’s 500byGucci model – 3000 pre-orders logged on the www.500bygucci.com website and requests from all over the world – Fiat and Gucci are now introducing a cabriolet version – the Fiat 500CbyGucci.

Customised by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in collaboration with Centro Stile Fiat, the car will be distributed worldwide, and from this month will be available to order both online at fiat.co.uk and in selected Fiat UK dealers.  Prices start at £17,800 OTR.

All the exclusivity of the Fiat 500byGucci is enhanced by the innovative electrically operated full length soft top in this new version. It will be available in two sophisticated body colours: white with glitter and brushed chrome-plated elements, and black with glitter and shiny chrome-plated accents.  For both, the soft top is black with the characteristic green-red-green Gucci web pattern printed lengthwise.

The exterior of the Fiat 500CbyGucci is embellished by 16” alloy wheels characterised by the unmistakable retro design of the spokes.  The hub caps have a double G logo in matching body colour, and Gucci signatures in italics are displayed on the tailgate and door pillars.

The passenger compartment of the Fiat 500CbyGucci also brims with eye-catching features: stylish stitching, exclusive materials, satin and polished chrome-plated elements, a velvet-effect finish on the radio panel, and two-tone Frau leather seats with Guccissima print.  The Gucci web theme also appears on the seats, gearbox, key cover, mats, and, with an innovative finish, on the seat belts.

Fiat 500CbyGucci will of course come complete with comprehensive standard equipment: automatic climate control system, seven airbags (front, side, window and knee), Blue&Me system integrated with rear parking sensors, car radio with CD-MP3 player and leather steering wheel with radio controls.

The selected Fiat dealerships that will be displaying the Fiat 500byGucci range will receive copies of an exclusive lifestyle brochure created as a fashion catalogue and designed to bring out the unique, one-of-a-kind nature of this extraordinary interpretation of the glamorous world of the Fiat 500.

NEW FIAT PANDA MAKES INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC DEBUT AT FRANKFURT

30 August 2011

Fiat will be unveiling its new Panda at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September.

The new arrival, which will go on sale in UK next spring, is a consistent evolution of a highly successful city car that has always been a by-word for functional design, manoeuvrability, space, reliability and comfort.

While still remaining true to its compact design brief, new Panda has ‘grown’ by just a few centimetres to ensure the attainment of the highest safety standards, and improve the generous level of passenger and luggage space still further. With an overall length of 365cm, width of 164cm and height of 155cm, new Panda can comfortably accommodate up to five people and is equipped with one of the largest luggage compartments in its segment.

Panda was the first car in its market segment (A), to win the prestigious Car of the Year award (in 2004). It was the first compact (less than four metres in length) to feature a diesel engine (1986), and it was the first to offer both four-wheel drive (1983) and a range of eco-friendly engines designed to limit fuel consumption. (Panda Elettra, introduced in 1990, was one of the first electric cars).

Now in its third generation, new Panda has taken another major step forward in terms of comfort, technology and safety equipment, making its first public appearance with a modern and harmonious new style, but without relinquishing the essential family feeling that has so characterised the marque over the years.

An all-new flexible interior and an elegant new exterior featuring softer, rounded shapes bring new Panda sharply into focus as an engineering project which from the outset was dedicated to improve an already successful model. Construction quality and vehicle reliability have been optimised, and while its exterior dimensions are an invaluable feature for a car principally intended for urban use, it is easily capable of tackling longer and tougher journeys.

The new engine range emphasises new Panda’s cutting edge technology. Customers will be able to choose from two TwinAir twin cylinder engines: the International Engine of the Year 2011 85bhp TwinAir Turbo, or the brand new 65bhp naturally aspirated TwinAir, both equipped with Start and Stop as standard. The recently revised four cylinder  69bhp 1.2 litre Fire engine completes the petrol engine range at launch, but a state-of-the-art turbodiesel 75bhp 1.3 litre MultiJet 2  engine, also with Start and Stop as standard, will also be offered. In harmony with its eco-friendly spirit, new Panda also offers a Gearshift Indicator, which helps drivers use the engine more efficiently, and thus reduce fuel consumption.

At launch, the new Panda will be front-wheel drive only, but a four-wheel drive version is planned.  Safety has been a priority in the new design, and new Panda has four airbags, ABS anti-lock braking with a brake assist system, front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, Isofix attachments for child seats, anti-whiplash front head restraints, rear headrests, and Daytime Running Lights – all as standard.

In addition, new Panda has been engineered to accept Blue&Me-TomTom LIVE, a device that combines the advantages of an infotainment system which is integrated and connected with those of a portable navigator, opening the doors to connectivity. The system allows new Panda customers to use mobile phones and media players in complete safety, without ever removing their hands from the steering wheel, while providing a unique and distinctive navigational experience, built into the dashboard, and offering the most accurate traffic information updated in real time.

MYLIFE JOINS UPGRADED BRAVO RANGE

16 August 2011

An impressive list of standard equipment is one of the highlights of the new Fiat Bravo MyLife, the latest car to be included in Fiat’s feature model collection of well-equipped, high value versions.

Based on the range’s Active trim, the new Bravo MyLife is powered by Fiat’s widely acclaimed MultiJet 105bhp diesel engine. But it’s the additional equipment that makes the car stand out, especially as much of it gives the Bravo MyLife a distinctive, sporty look.

The long list of equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, Blue&Me entertainment and communication system, leather steering wheel with audio controls, ESP stability control, air conditioning, electric front windows and driver, passenger and side airbags.

Part of the Fiat range, the MyLife cars are not limited editions. They focus on style and technology, with a special emphasis on choice, value for money and an impressive standard features list. Original and distinctive, MyLife cars combine design with eco-friendliness in a single product.

“We’re pleased to bring Bravo into the MyLife model strategy which offers customers the best value proposition within the core segment of each model range,“ says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland.

“MyLife focuses on style and technology while at the same time offering a proposition that represents sheer value for money. I am sure this will be of interest to many new and existing Fiat customers.”

The Fiat Bravo 1.6 16v MultiJet 105 MyLife costs £17,500 OTR.

Meanwhile, the already successful Bravo Active version has been given a more stylish look with the help of a special gloss-black finish B pillar, new piano black upper and lower front grille, chrome upper front grille frame and chrome door handles.

Fiat Bravo Active pricing starts at £15,200 OTR for the 1.4 Active 90hp, rising to £17,200 OTR for the 1.6 16v MultiJet 105 Active Eco.

FIAT GROUP'S ALL-NEW TRAINING ACADEMY OFFICIALLY OPENS

03 August 2011

Unetversity Slough, an all-new training centre for the Fiat Group in the UK, has just been officially opened – with the promise of even greater results for the 6000 delegates taught each year.

Part of a three-strong network of UK academies – including Manchester and Dublin – the new £1.4 million Slough site is the realisation of a year-long plan by Unetversity training director Andy Rowe and his team..

Fiat Group’s Unetversity scheme operates across all the Group’s brands, in all countries, worldwide. It supports the company’s global strategy to raise core competencies.

Launched in the UK in 2009, Unetversity has been restructured here to offer a refreshed collection of high-tech training, leading to certification for each role. This includes a comprehensive suite of web-based learning, creating a library of nearly 100 individual modules registering over 5000 completions in 2010. Already recognised as a training centre of excellence, Unetversity recently added Chrysler and Jeep to the coaching work it already does with Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional and Abarth.

With 22,000 square feet of floor space, the new Slough site is a bright, airy environment. Seven sound-insulated classrooms, each fitted with the latest ‘Smartboard’ technology,  offer perfect surroundings for theory instruction, while the workshop on the ground floor boasts six learning centres allowing delegates to get more ‘hands-on’ experience.

“We help people to discover information themselves – as discovery leads to a more permanent learning experience,” says Andy Rowe. “From the moment you walk into the new training centre, you get a feel for what we are trying to do.

“Its light, minimalist appearance and superb classroom areas create a feeling of professionalism throughout.  Our aim is to help each delegate realise their full potential. We are now training more people than ever before and doing it better than ever before, and I am looking forward to many years of great success here.”

Unetversity Slough was officially opened by Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK, and Alberto Trabucco, Unetversity Training Academy Manager.

FIAT PANDA NOW WITH EURO 5 ENGINES

21 July 2011

Fiat’s evergreen Panda has reinforced its impressive environmental credentials with the recent introduction of Euro 5 engines across the city car range.

Higher top speed, stronger acceleration, improved fuel consumption and lower CO2 figures are all important features of these lean, green power units, which come fitted to the new line-up of Panda 1.2 Active, 1.2 MyLife, 1.2 Dynamic and the diesel 1.3 MultiJet Dynamic.

The new vehicles will further reinforce Fiat’s industry-leading environmental standing – in February the company recorded Europe’s lowest volume weighted CO2 emissions for the fourth consecutive year.

The 1.2-litre Euro 5 engine replaces the Panda’s previous entry-level 1.1-litre petrol unit. The 69bhp unit can take the car from 0-62mph in 13.4 seconds and gives it a top speed of 101mph. It returns 57.6mpg (combined cycle) and has a CO2 figure of 113g/km.

The 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel version delivers 0-62mph acceleration in 13.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 103mph. With a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 67.3mpg, it gives a 109g/km CO2 figure.

“The Fiat Panda is one of the motor industry’s great success stories,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. “And we plan to continue that with this new range of cars.

“The addition of the Euro 5 engine to the line-up makes the Panda an even more tempting choice for drivers looking to save on fuel costs and keep CO2 figures as low as possible.”

All versions are generously equipped, with even the entry-level Active offering power steering, electric front windows, body coloured bumpers and driver and passenger airbags as standard.

MyLife cars add as standard, equipment such as alloy wheels, remote central locking and 12V power socket, while Dynamic trim adds, among a long list, body coloured door mirrors and handles, roof bars, air conditioning, pearlescent paint, split folding rear seat, MP3 player and fog lights.

Prices (OTR) for the new Euro 5 Fiat Panda range are as follows:

1.2 Active - £8,445 (currently available at £6,645)

1.2 MyLife - £9,255 (currently available at £7.245)

1.2 Dynamic - £9,865

1.3 16v MultiJet Dynamic - £12,285

Click here to explore the Fiat Panda.

EXCLUSIVE FIAT 500 "FIRST EDITION" DISEMBARKS IN CHINA

15 July 2011

Earlier this week, Lorenzo Sistino, Fiat Group Automobiles Executive Vice President International Operations, presented  the Fiat 500 “First Edition”, made exclusively for the Chinese market and  embellished by the creative graphics of five young Chinese designers in Shanghai.

This Limited Edition – 100 numbered units – will be featuring in an original initiative ahead of the official Chinese launch of the 500 on 15 September. Everyone who places an order for a Fiat 500 from 12 July to 15 September will take part in a final draw entitling them to replace the car they ordered with a Fiat 500 “First Edition”.

"The start of the pre-order phase is a fundamental stage for the 500 launch in China and will mark an important step forward in the joint project of Fiat and GAC," declared Lorenzo Sistino. "The objective of the 500 is to position our brand in this market because it is the model that best expresses the values of Fiat."

Based on the 500 Lounge, the “First Edition” has a special three-coat pearlescent white body colour, red leather interior and a special badge on the door pillar. Under the bonnet, is a 1.4-litre MultiAir unit, the petrol engine that won “The International Engine of the Year Award 2010”. Combined with an automatic six-speed transmission, the innovative engine delivers a maximum power of 101bhp (75 kW) at 6500 rpm and torque of 133 Nm at 4000 rpm.

The real peculiarity of the Fiat 500 “First Edition” is its special livery, as Lorenzo Sistino explained: “The 'First Edition' is a special offer exclusively created for Chinese customers and represents a symbol that joins our two cultures. Not by chance, we asked five young Chinese artists to interpret the relationship between our two countries in a creative, original manner, and to fashion a tribute for the launch of the 500 in China.

“The 500 will have many versions and special series, in addition to the 100 ‘First Edition’ models. Next year we will be launching the 500C convertible and the exclusive ‘500byGucci’ special series. The Fiat 500 is Fiat’s first important step in this great market: by the end of 2012 we will have launched a new saloon made entirely in China at the plant in Changsha with our partner GAC."

In detail, the five exclusive high-impact designs on the sides of the car cleverly symbolise the bonds between Italy and China. The first designer is Leilei, an avant-garde artist who has won many important awards in China and in other countries. Use of elements from national popular culture is predominant in his works. The second young designer is Mee Wong, an illustrator and teacher at the Guangzhou Art Institute. Her favourite creative element is the panda, the animal which symbolises Chinese culture.

Asian tradition is again the inspiration for the third artist, Benny Luk, an award-winning designer of international fame, who combines graphics and web design. Next is Nod Young, a visual artist with a unique style whose artwork has been exhibited in many countries, including the UK, Germany, USA, Italy, South Africa and China. Drawing and illustration master Yan Wei completes the line-up. She employs traditional Chinese patterns and her works have been displayed in some of the most famous art galleries of Shanghai, Beijing, New York and Tokyo.

Made in Toluca, Mexico, the Fiat 500 marketed in China has an entry-level price of 190,000 RMB. The range includes three trim levels (Pop, Sport and Lounge), one engine version (1.4 MultiAir 101bhp), an automatic six-speed transmission, 12 body colours (metallic, non-metallic and three-coat pearlescent), nine colour-material combinations for upholstery and two interior environments (black or ivory).

In brief, this amazing A-segment four-seater ensures a great handling experience and unprecedented feeling with its ideal city size, its thrilling driving dynamics, its brand-new 1.4 litre MultiAir engine, its innovative Blue&Me hands-free communication system and seven airbags as standard.

Click here to explore the Fiat 500.

TWINAIR ENGINE HELPS IMPROVE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IN FIAT

02 June 2011

The popularity of Fiat’s award-winning 500 and its TwinAir engine, together with consistent improvements in terms of quality, reliability and customer service, have helped move Fiat upwards in the recent JD Power satisfaction survey.

An overall position of 22nd place is the highest that the brand has achieved in the survey since it began in 1994, and is the result of an on-going project designed to move Fiat steadily up the satisfaction rankings. Three years ago the company finished 29th and last year it was in 26th position.

“Clearly, there is a massive amount of work still to be done,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “However, the positive results of the task we initiated three years ago to improve customer satisfaction in Fiat and its products are starting to show through.

“We know there is a long way to go. But I am sure that these last two years of steadily improving results will continue to be seen in future JD Power surveys.”

Several factors have combined to improve Fiat’s standing in this important survey, including a big drive to improve the service offered by Fiat’s network of dealers, and a desirable range of cars that people want to buy and own. In the survey’s City Car category, Fiat 500 finished 2nd while the Fiat Panda came 4th.

“Owners rated the Fiat 500 as more appealing than any other city car available, especially because of its retro styling and impeccable driving manners,” says JD Power. It also comments: “Down from second spot in last year’s survey, but the seven-year-old Panda is still showing well. Owners found it easy to get into and out of, and praised Fiat dealers for their servicing.”

Greater reliability, and award-winning technology, such as MultiAir and TwinAir engines and the eco:Drive fuel saving equipment, have also been appreciated by customers.

Last month the TwinAir engine was voted International Engine of the Year, while eco:Drive, which has won many awards, has just been named Brand Innovator of the Year in the Marketing Week Engage 2011 Awards.

Learn more about the benefits of TwinAir here.

ENGLAND SELECTION MADE FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS IN SINGAPORE

23 May 2011

England Netball is delighted to announce the squad to compete in the upcoming World Championships in Singapore. The squad will travel to the Far East in search of gold when the competition gets underway on July 3rd.

The team will be co-captained by Karen Atkinson and the returning Sonia Mkoloma, who has spent the previous few months helping New South Wales Swifts in the ANZ Championship.

Geva Mentor also returns from a stint in the ANZ to strengthen the defence and is joined by Stacey Francis and Eboni Beckford-Chambers; who both came back from the recent tour to Jamaica with praise lavished upon them.

The mid-court has a similar feel to it with Serena Guthrie, Tamsin Greenway and Jade Clarke competing for starting berths.

The attacking circle consists of the same four players who toured the Caribbean; Pamela Cookey, Louisa Brownfield, Jo Harten and Rachel Dunn will be on the plane to Singapore. The shooters averages have increased markedly on the international scene and they will be determined to raise the bar even higher at the World Championships.

England Head Coach Sue Hawkins is full of confidence heading into the tournament following the squad announcement. She said “We have a strong, powerful line-up and we are now totally focused heading into the World Championships and we will be going all out to return home as champions.”

England will have to enter the competition without inspirational mid-courter Sara Bayman who is rehabilitating from an ACL injury suffered while playing for Northern Thunder in the Fiat Netball Superleague.

England are joined in Pool D by Malawi, Barbados and Malaysia. The opening fixture for Hawkins’ side will be on Monday 4th July when they face Malawi. The top two teams from each Pool will qualify for the quarter-finals and then compete for the title when the tournament concludes on Sunday July 10th.

“As sporting partner of the All England Netball Association, we’d like to wish the team the best of luck at the World Championships in Singapore,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “The netball team shows all the performance, drive and quality that Fiat cars do, so I am sure they will do very well at the Championships.”

England Squad for World Championships: Sonia Mkoloma (Co-Captain), Karen Atkinson (Co-Captain), Geva Mentor, Stacey Francis, Eboni Beckford-Chambers, Jade Clarke, Serena Guthrie, Tamsin Greenway, Pamela Cookey, Louisa Brownfield, Jo Harten, Rachel Dunn

You can follow the England squad at http://www.wnc2011.com/home/index.php

FIAT TOPS CO2 REDUCTION RANKINGS FOR FOURTH YEAR

04 March 2011

Fiat continues to set new standards in carbon dioxide reduction, after both the Fiat brand and Fiat Group recorded Europe’s lowest volume weighted CO2 emissions, according to JATO Dynamics, the world's leading automotive consultancy and research firm.

Fiat Automobiles logged a CO2 average of just 123.1 g/km (4.7 g/km less than the 2009 average), placing it top of all brands for the fourth year running, and well ahead of the European target of 130 g/km, due to be met in 2015.

Fiat also ranked first among the motor groups with 125.9 g/km, an improvement of five g/km on last year. The figure takes into account all Fiat’s brands, including the Ferrari supercars and Maserati’s high performance luxury vehicles.

This eco-friendly achievement is the result of a long-term Fiat strategy based on a two-pronged approach: implementing technological solutions aimed at containing consumption and emissions, and raising the awareness of motorists to spur a more responsible, eco-compatible use of their cars.

Fiat’s MultiAir, MultiJet and TwinAir engines are all part of that strategy, along with initiatives such as alternative fuels (CNG Natural Power and LPG Easy Power), Start&Stop; electronic gearshift management (Dualogic robotised transmission), electronic traction management (Traction Plus) and Fiat’s eco:Drive, the in-car software which analyses driver behaviour and suggests ways to improve it.

“Every year Fiat is raising the bar in terms of fuel consumption reduction and respect for the environment, and it is rewarding that we have posted the best figures for the fourth consecutive year,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. “Every vehicle we sell is making its own contribution to lowering emissions, and playing its part in making the world a cleaner place in which to live.”

FIAT AND GUCCI ANNOUNCE THE FIAT 500 BY GUCCI

25 February 2011

In the year marking the celebration of both the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and Gucci's 90th anniversary, Gucci and Fiat are proud to unveil the 500 by Gucci, a special edition of the iconic Fiat 500 customised by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat's Centro Stile.

This unique collaboration between two of Italy's most respected brands represents the perfect combination of craftsmanship and style. Launched on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week, the 500 by Gucci  is also presented at the Geneva International Auto Show (3-13 March), in a dedicated Gucci pop-up store within the Fiat stand.

The black and white colours of the 500 by Gucci, in unique eye-catching glossy pearl glass paint complement one another: black, with detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy feel; white, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors for a softer, sophisticated look.

Fiat 500 by Gucci will be available in the UK this summer.

To see the exclusive first video, visit our HQ blog . See exclusive first pictures below.

MULTIJET 1.3 16V ENGINES EXCEED 4 MILLION PRODUCTION RUN

09 February 2011

The four millionth 1.3 16v MultiJet engine left the Fiat Powertrain plant in Bielsko Biala, Poland, on Friday 4 February.

This achievement is a testimony to the great success that this remarkable small diesel engine has achieved since 2003, the year in which production began. It features the first ever application of MultiJet technology on a world-wide scale, and is an evolution of the Common Rail system invented by Fiat and put into production in 1997.

Constantly updated in terms of technological content, the 1.3 16v MultiJet (currently produced in its latest guise, known internationally as MultiJet II) has been awarded many prestigious accolades, including Engine of the Year (1.0-1.4 litre category) in 2005.

The engine is available with several power outputs: from 75 HP, with a fixed geometry turbocharger, to 85 HP and 95 HP, both with variable geometry turbochargers.

In all versions, the 1.3 MultiJet ensures high performance and low consumption as well as − thanks to its cutting-edge technology − long service intervals.

The 1.3 MultiJet is installed in a large number of Fiat Group Automobiles models, including the Fiat Panda, Punto Evo, Fiat Qubo and the Fiat 500. Indeed, it is in a Fiat 500 bound for a French customer that the four millionth MultiJet is to be installed, specifically a 95 HP Euro 5 specification unit.

Since 2008 the 1.3 16v MultiJet has also been produced at the Fiat Powertrain Technologies plant in Ranjangaon, India.

FIAT APPOINTS NEW SALES DIRECTOR

11 January 2011

Fiat Group Automobiles UK Ltd has announced the appointment of Jon Wakefield to the role of sales director.

Reporting to managing director Andrew Humberstone, Jon takes over responsibility for developing sales of new cars across the Fiat Group, for the Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands.

Jon brings to the Fiat Group a unique combination of dealer and manufacturer experience gained during 20 years in the automotive industry.

"I am looking forward to working with our dealer partners to ensure that we meet our mutual business objectives," says Jon Wakefield. "There is much potential in the Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands which together I am confident we can realise."

FIAT NETS ANOTHER SPORTING PARTNER

7 January 2011

Fiat Group Automobiles has bounced into the New Year with the announcement of a new sporting partner – the All England Netball Association.

The agreement makes Fiat the title sponsor of the Fiat International Netball Series between 15-19 January, culminating in the final match at the O2 Arena in London. This is the latest in a number of high-profile sports tie-ins for the Italian car manufacturer. Other partnerships include British Cycling and Aston Villa FC.

Fiat will also become the title sponsor of the Fiat Netball Superleague, the highest-level UK league, which attracts huge interest and major TV coverage. The league starts on 22 January, with coverage on Thursday evenings throughout the season, and culminates with the Grand Final on 9 June.

"Netball is a female-dominant sport which crosses a wide variety of age groups, so we think much of the Fiat range will fit perfectly with the sport's fans, such as the Fiat 500 and Panda,"  says Paolo Lo Monaco, finance and business development director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "And the larger Fiat Qubo and Doblo models are excellent choices for carrying teams of netball players to matches."

"On top of significant cross-marketing opportunities, this partnership will offer us major exposure into a UK-wide market – there are currently 75,000 affiliated netballers in England with many more in equivalent governing bodies in Scotland and Wales. That's a huge potential customer database."

"We are delighted to be entering into this partnership with Fiat," adds Joanna Adams, head of marketing, commercial and events, All England Netball Association. "The alliance will benefit netballers and fans across the UK with valuable support and the opportunity to take advantage of offers made available by this global automotive brand. It will also secure netball's place in the commercial sporting environment."

TNEW TWINAIR A UK AWARD WINNER ALREADY

3 December 2010

It's only been available since October, but Fiat's new TwinAir is already a 'WinAir' when it comes to major UK awards.

The innovative two-cylinder engine – which currently powers Fiat's popular 500 city car – has just scooped the Engine of the Year prize in the 2010 Top Gear Awards.

It's a second honour in as many weeks for Fiat Powertrain Technologies, which designed and developed the revolutionary unit – last month FPT's award-winning MultiAir engine was recognised by influential US magazine Popular Science.

In these latest honours, Top Gear judges describe the TwinAir as: "A little bundle of energy, charm and downright saintliness to prove our good old friend the gasoline engine is still alive and very much kicking..."

Weighing just 85kg, and with figures of 95g/km of CO2, this ground-breaking engine has the lowest emissions of any quantity production petrol engine. Its 85bhp makes the Fiat 500 TwinAir a powerful mainstream A-segment vehicle, while its 145Nm of torque means it's responsive and fun-to-drive too.

Compared with Fiat's best-selling 1.2-litre petrol engine in the Fiat 500, the TwinAir delivers 23 per cent more power yet combines this with a 15 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.

"We were confident when we launched the TwinAir engine that our customers would like the combination of power, low emissions and fun to drive," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "So it's an added pleasure when experts from the motoring media also give us such high praise. I am sure that TwinAir will secure many more honours in the future."

The new Fiat 500 TwinAir range starts at £10,665 (OTR) for the TwinAir Pop and rises to £16,065 (OTR) for the convertible 500C TwinAir byDIESEL.

Explore the Fiat 500 TwinAir here.

FIAT 500 TWINAIR TOP PRIZE IN ECO:DRIVE GP COMPETITION

4 November 2010

Fuel-conscious UK drivers are being offered the chance to win a new Fiat 500 TwinAir in an exciting Europe-wide competition from Fiat's award-winning eco:Drive.

The meticulous motorists are being asked to demonstrate their environmental prowess behind the wheel – eco:Drive-style – for an opportunity to go to Italy to compete in an eco:Drive GP grand final with one of Fiat's new two-cylinder city cars as top prize.

eco:Drive is free to download and works with Fiat's widely acclaimed Blue&Me entertainment and communications system. Plugging a USB key into the Blue&Me port allows eco:Drive to record information about a motorist's driving style and award an eco:Index score. By inserting the USB into a computer it shows how the user can become a more efficient driver.

To qualify, entrants must first register for the competition on the eco:Drive website: www.fiat.co.uk/ecodrive then collect at least five days' worth of driving data to get on to the leaderboard. Then they must attempt to achieve the highest eco:Index, with the best male and female participant being declared the UK winners. The competition closes on 22 November.

UK victors will be invited to December's Bologna Motor Show in Italy where they'll compete against winners from other European countries in the grand final, a pre-determined driving course, in a bid to win the Fiat 500 TwinAir which can achieve 68.9mpg and emits just 95g/km CO2. Runners-up will receive a Blue&Me TomTom satnav.

"This is a wonderful competition for all Fiat users whose cars are fitted with eco:Drive," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "Not only will it encourage people to think about how they are driving, but it also provides the opportunity for an exciting trip to Italy and the chance to win a great car which is already creating a buzz with both customers and the media."

The new 500 TwinAir range starts at £10,665 (OTR) for the TwinAir Pop and rises to £16,065 (OTR) for the convertible 500C TwinAir byDIESEL.

Sign up to ecoDrive here and see how well you can do.

INTERNATIONAL SINGER TOURS EUROPE WITH FIAT 500C

6 October 2010

An internationally renowned singer-songwriter is undertaking a European concert tour, using three Fiat 500C convertible city cars as his transport.

Israeli-born Yoav Sadan launched his road trip, called Escape Plan 500C, on 20 September and has so far visited 18 major cities in 10 countries, including Milan, Paris, Lausanne, Munich, Copenhagen, Brussels and Berlin.

And this Friday (8 October) the guitarist ends the tour at London's Monto Water Rats Theatre, for a sell-out night to bring his popular acoustic music to British fans.

A critically acclaimed recording artist, Yoav is particularly admired across Europe, Canada and South Africa, where he was brought up. His whistle stop tour of Europe in the Fiat 500C has caught the imagination of his internet followers.

On his website (www.yoavmusic.com) Yoav tells fans: "I'm embarking on a massive road trip mission. I'm picking up three Fiat 500s and driving across Europe. We've just discovered that all my equipment fits in this tiny little car - and I fit in the trunk!"

Fiat Group Automobiles UK's involvement is just one of many music-related projects being undertaken by the company, following the huge success of the Punto Evo Music Rooms in April this year and sponsorship of the new Faithless single Feelin Good this summer. In March the Fiat 500C Feelgood Playlist - which allowed owners to share favourite tracks, won a top innovation award.

"Yoav has a wonderful following here in the UK and we are delighted to help bring him to British fans," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "The Fiat 500C makes a perfect touring car for Yoav - especially if the weather is fine, when he can roll the roof back and enjoy the last of any good weather as he makes his way to the next concert."

Launched in July 2009, the Fiat 500C is available with a choice of three Euro 5-specification engines - 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre 16v petrol, and 1.3-litre 16v MultiJet diesel. Prices start at £12,465 OTR for the 1.2 Pop.

NEW FIAT DOBLÒ TAKES CLASS WIN IN TOP TOWCAR AWARD

24 September 2010

It's spacious, comfortable, safe, and better equipped than its predecessor. Now the New Fiat Doblò has shown that it is a superb towcar too.

That's the verdict after judges at yesterday's (23 September) Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2011 Competition, awarded New Doblò the '£16,000 to £20,000' class win at a special lunch in the Royal Automobile Club, London.

Held, as in previous years, at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, the Competition attracted 35 entrants and put all the cars through a rigorous series of towing tests. The winning New Doblò model was the 2.0 MultiJet Eleganza.

"From a lively standing start the Doblò's performance felt strong with good stability," said the Caravan Club judging panel. "The judges had a great time threading the Doblò around the hill route. It stopped and pulled away on the hill well, too. The compact MPV easily swallows a full load making it ideal for caravanners."

"We have been delighted with the reception the New Fiat Doblò has had from customers and the media," says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "It's a spacious and versatile family car, and this latest towing award can only help to broaden its appeal to an even wider range of customers."

Launched in March 2010, New Doblò is available with a choice of three Euro 5-specification engines - a 1.4-litre 16v 95bhp petrol unit and two MultiJet 16v turbo diesels - 1.6 (105bhp), and 2.0 (135bhp). All cars feature the Start&Stop fuel economy feature and Gear Shift Indicator as standard. Prices start at £12,370 OTR for the 1.4 16v 95 Active.

Have a look at the award winning New Doblo Here

PUNTO EVO STARS IN NEW MUSIC VIDEO

16 August 2010

It's made inroads into the car sales charts and now the new Fiat Punto Evo looks set to do the same with the music charts.

The popular family hatchback, launched here in January this year, features in a new music video released to promote the latest single from dance act Faithless.

In a move that is set to transform both music and automotive marketing, Fiat and Faithless have produced the three-minute video for Feelin Good to serve also as a TV advert for the Punto Evo.

This 'Prommercial' - a hybrid of promotional video and TV commercial - is a first in the music video and car advertising worlds, and allows the Punto Evo to play an important part in the narrative of the new Feelin Good video.

It was first shown on Sunday, 15 August and screened during a break in the Channel 4 reality show Big Brother. Fiat booked the entire three-minute advert break to show the music video and create maximum impact.

Set to be one of the biggest music video productions of the year, the Feelin Good video plot follows the exploits of a young man and woman, whose incredible dance moves are directly affected by the movements of small dolls hanging from the rear view mirrors of two Fiat Punto Evos.

To celebrate this ground-breaking marketing activity, Fiat is launching a special edition Feelin Good Punto Evo, featuring 15-inch alloy wheels, metallic paint, sports bumpers, Blue&Me information and entertainment system, Start&Stop, rear spoiler, dark tinted headlights, and adaptive cornering foglights. The three-door model costs just £9,595.

And any customer test driving a Fiat Punto Evo before 21 September will receive a free MP3 music player and a copy of the Faithless album The Dance.

"This is not just about a brand sponsoring a band. It's much more than that - we are co-creating a promotion," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK & Ireland.

"Punto Evo is leading the way in innovation, so we were thrilled to get involved with another music initiative that reflected our forward-thinking approach. It was essential for us that we didn't just place the Punto Evo in the video - we wanted it to be at the heart of the storyline."

NEW FIAT 500CBYDIESEL GOES ON SALE

05 August 2010

Creativity, fun and irreverence have come together to create another special edition Fiat 500 - the 500CbyDIESEL - which goes on sale today.

The convertible version of the city car, born from a collaboration between Fiat's Centro Stile and DIESEL fashion brand designers, has been enhanced with the introduction of a new Midnight Indigo Blue colour, a shade reminiscent of stone-washed denim jeans.

Based on the Fiat 500C Lounge specification, the new car comes with a choice of 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre petrol, and 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engines. Also available in Crossover Black and DIESEL Green, there's the option of black, ivory and red soft top colours.

The  500CbyDIESEL has many of the other features that made the hatchback version so distinctive including:

• 16-inch special alloy wheels with DIESEL logo
• Brake callipers painted yellow (optional on 1.4 version only)
• Specific burnished-metal-finish front and rear bumper inserts
• Specific burnished-metal-finish side rubbing strips
• Specific burnished-metal-finish door handles and mirrors
• Unique side pillar moulding embossed with the word DIESEL
• Unique rear moulding with the DIESEL logo
• Special DIESEL branded upholstery in denim fabric and yellow stitching
• Specific leather steering wheel with yellow stitching
• DIESEL logo on the gear lever knob

In line with the Fiat 500C Lounge version, the 500CbyDIESEL will also be fitted with automatic climate control and rear parking sensors as standard.

"The 500byDIESEL took the automotive and fashion worlds by storm last year, and we are delighted to be able to do it again with a 500C version," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK & Ireland. "All the stylish details, combined with the 500C Lounge product features, make the Fiat 500CbyDIESEL the perfect choice for style lovers!"

Prices for the Fiat 500CbyDIESEL start at £14,865 OTR for the 1.2-litre version and rise to £16,265 OTR (1.4-litre) and £17,265 OTR (1.3-litre MultiJet).

FIAT 500 LIMITED EDITION BACK - AND THIS TIME ITS BLACK

30 July 2010

Following on from the success of the Fiat 500 Pink, another unique limited edition version of the popular city car has been announced - the Fiat 500 BlackJack.

Just 200 examples of the matt black supermini will be available when it goes on sale next week. As with previous special edition 500 models, the BlackJack will initially be available on-line.

The BlackJack name reinforces the character of this car: irreverent and mysterious. The 500 BlackJack is the first vehicle in this segment to offer the special paint, and is one of several exciting Fiat 500 limited editions being introduced this year.

Based on the 1.2 and 1.4 Sport specification, the Fiat 500 BlackJack features:

• Individual matt black paint finish
• Mouldings, door handles, door mirrors and plate holder in metallic effect
• 16-inch alloy wheels in matt black with red coach line
• Red brake callipers (1.4 only)
• Special carpet mats

The 500 BlackJack - like all Fiat 500s - comes as standard with Fiat's Start&Stop, which stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the car to a complete halt, and restarts it immediately the driver wants to move off again.

"The paint finish is the most striking feature of this new limited edition," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "It has previously been a characteristic of new supercars, and gives the Fiat 500 a stunning new image. I am sure the BlackJack will be a huge hit with Fiat 500 fans."

The new car costs £12,165 OTR (1.2) and £13,565 OTR (1.4).

FIAT 500 SCOOPS ANOTHER TOP GREEN AWARD

15 July 2010

The award-winning Fiat 500 supermini has received further confirmation of its green credentials after scooping top honours in the Supermini category of the What Car? Green Awards for the second year in a row.

The awards, which took place last night (14 July) at Twickenham Stadium, Middlesex, are designed to recognise and highlight motoring's most economical and environmentally-friendly cars.

The What Car? judges chose the 1.2-litre version of the Fiat 500 for top supermini honours in this year's competition - the same award as the one picked up by the popular city car in 2009. The vehicle is fitted as standard with Fiat's fuel-saving Start&Stop system - as are all 500 models.

The Start&Stop system stops the engine automatically whenever traffic conditions bring the car to a complete halt, and restarts it when the driver wants to move off again.

"It's everything that a green supermini should be - affordable, fun and easy on the environment," says What Car? editor-in-chief Steve Fowler. "It's no surprise Fiat's brilliant 500 has won this category for the second year in a row. Nothing else in this class can mix as much style, affordability and fun with such green credentials."

"Part of the 500's attraction to customers is that it delivers great value for money at the fuel pumps," adds Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK Ltd. "Add in the fact that the car is great to drive, stylish and fantastic to look at, and we think we have a winning formula. I'm delighted that the What Car? judges agree with us."

Available with a choice of three frugal, ultra-low emissions, Euro 5-compliant engines: 69bhp 1.2-litre and 100bhp 1.4-litre petrol, or 95bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel, the new Fiat 500 can be ordered in three different trim levels - Pop, Sport and Lounge - along with a limited edition 500byDiesel version.

With a starting price of just £9,465 OTR for the 1.2 Pop, the new Fiat 500 represents outstanding value.

FIAT'S 1.4 MULTIAIR TURBO IS BEST NEW ENGINE OF THE YEAR

29 June 2010

The FPT 1.4 Turbo engine, the first Fiat power unit to incorporate revolutionary MultiAir technology, has won the prestigious Engine of the Year award in the Best New Engine of the Year category. This innovative four-cylinder engine combines MultiAir, the electro-hydraulic management of the inlet valves, with a turbocharger, setting new efficiency standards.

Developed and manufactured by FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies - the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo engines, with power outputs ranging from 135 to 170 bhp, now equip the Fiat Punto Evo and will soon to be introduced to the Fiat Bravo.

The top of the range 170 bhp version, with 124 bhp/litre, has an outstanding specific power output which, combined with peak torque of 250 Nm, guarantees sporty performance, together with record-setting fuel consumption and emissions.

MultiAir technology, which has already won numerous awards, is based on direct control of the intake air, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke, without a throttle valve, and reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 10%, while increasing power by 10% and improving torque by 15%. Additionally, all polluting emissions are also significantly reduced by careful monitoring of combustion. MultiAir technology is versatile, easily applicable to all petrol engines, and has the potential to be developed for diesel engines in future.

The Best New Engine of the Year award, bestowed by an international jury of 65 specialist journalists from 32 countries, was collected by Aldo Marangoni, FPT Product Engineering Vice President.

"The award is further confirmation of the Fiat Group's acknowledged capacity for technological innovation. The Group won the prize in 2005, in the 1.0 to 1.4-litre capacity class of the International Engine of the Year, with the small but sophisticated 1.3 MultiJet, which opened a new chapter in the history of diesel engines, a field in which the Group has always been a leader, having been the first to launch innovations such as direct injection and common-rail technology on the market," says Marangoni.

"Lots of power combined with serious reductions in emissions makes this a very good engine. Then, when you look at the fuel economy, Fiat's MultiAir turbo powertrain becomes a great engine - it's easy to see why it has won Best New Engine for 2010," says Dean Slavnich, Co-Chairman of the Awards, and editor of Engine Technology International.

LATEST ART EXHIBITION IS CHILD'S PLAY FOR FIAT MARYLEBONE

21 June 2010

Fiat's flagship dealer, Fiat Marylebone, has proved once again its suitability for hosting art exhibitions, with a breath-taking display of paintings from an artist aged just six years old.

The Wigmore Street, London showroom was chosen this week to host a new series of works from Sebastiano Ludovico, whose seventh birthday is not until August. The young London-based talent has already attracted the interest of Hollywood film stars and British pop musicians with his incredible sense of colour, an instinctive creative maturity and a natural fantasy.

Among the paintings displayed at the 'Fiat through the eyes of a child' exhibition were some inspired by past and present Fiat cars, while others included fusions of paint with model cars, gauze, wood, steel and even CDs.

Fiat Marylebone was designed with art exhibitions and fashion shows in mind, as well as the ability to display a wide range of Fiat and Abarth cars, and has proved the perfect venue for stylish receptions such as last week's (17 June) event.

The glittering occasion attracted more than 100 guests from the business and art worlds, while American soul singer Kym Mazelle, British TV actress Angela Griffin, operatic tenor Andrew Amdur and former TV 'Apprentice' Raef Bjayou were also present.

"We have once again hosted an important exhibition at Fiat Marylebone, and I'm delighted the showroom now has such a good reputation for these types of events," says Tony Dittli, managing director, Fiat Marylebone. "We were again able to combine an art exhibition with our unique showroom environment, featuring Fiat and Abarth cars.

"Sebastiano Ludovico is a remarkable talent within the art world and I, like so many of our guests at this event, was completely amazed by his work - an incredible achievement from one so young."

FIVE MILLION CARS BUILT AT FIAT'S MELFI PLANT

19 May 2010

Another historic manufacturing landmark has just been passed by the Fiat Group as the five millionth vehicle rolled off the production line at Fiat's SATA plant in San Nicola di Melfi, Italy, one of the world's most dynamic automotive factories.

And it's fitting that the milestone car was a red Punto Evo 1.4 Emotion - a model which evolved from the Grande Punto, and is at the forefront of motoring innovation, in terms of the environment, safety and style.

The event was celebrated at the plant with a ceremony attended by provincial dignitaries and the director of the SATA plant, Nicola Intrevado.

The first vehicle built at the plant, a Fiat Punto, came off the production line at SATA in September 1993. It was followed by the second series Punto, the Grande Punto and the latest model, the Punto Evo, which entered production in September 2009.

The Melfi plant was the first Italian factory to be awarded Silver Level certification by WCM (World Class Manufacturing), an international standard for production cycle organisation.

FIAT 500 PROJECT PUTS CUSTOMERS IN THE PICTURE

03 May 2010

A new project to celebrate the building of 500,000 Fiat 500 city cars has been announced by Fiat.

Just 31 months since the launch of the popular supermini, the brand is celebrating reaching the half-million mark with a special showcar, called Fiat 500 Thousandth. The car will feature an unusual contribution from owners, as it will be entirely covered by 1500 photos displaying the faces of Fiat 500 customers, celebrities and fans.

Bookings for a place on the car will become available from next week (3 May). Users can click here and use the special application showing a plan view of the Fiat 500. A few minutes later, after registering, they can book one of the free spaces online by sending a photograph.

Seventy per cent of the places are reserved for Fiat 500 owners. Users can also attach a short text describing their relationship with the car, or a link either to a personal video on YouTube or to their personal Facebook page.

The showcar will be ready three weeks after the booking stage is concluded and will feature in forthcoming events and international motor shows. The Fiat 500 Thousandth will be the first 'collective car', a further confirmation of the spirit of the original model with potential customers being involved from the earliest stages of design.

FIAT TO SPONSOR MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP

20 April 2010

Further evidence of the success of Fiat Group Automobiles UK's agreement as official car supplier to British Cycling can be seen this weekend (23-25 April) at the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Cup.

Taking place in Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire, the championship attracts some of the world's best cross-country riders and tests their skills on a challenging course watched by thousands of spectators and enthusiasts.

In keeping with the forestry conditions, Fiat will supply British Cycling with a selection of cars perfectly suited to the job, including Panda 4x4, Qubo Trekking and new Doblo models. In addition, the company will have a display of Fiat 500 city cars at the Dixon's Hollow biking centre in the heart of the Forest.

"We said at the start of this agreement that we wanted to support all areas of cycling in the UK, and the mountain bike support shows how much we want to do that," says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "The event gives us a chance to showcase our range of vehicles to a wide, sports-minded audience, and is especially appropriate for our more rugged cars."

"We are delighted that Fiat has chosen to venture into the mountain bike discipline and it shows just how far the sport has come in recent years," says Jonny Clay, British Cycling's Event Director. "Fiat's commitment to the environment supports our efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable form of transport, and this weekend we will be relying on some of its lowest-emitting vehicles in and around Dalby Forest."

THE 500,000TH FIAT 500 ROLLS OFF THE PRODUCTION LINE

31 March 2010

Another important milestone in the history of the Fiat 500 has been reached with news that the 500,000th Fiat 500 has just rolled off the production line. The half-millionth car was a 69 HP 1.2 litre version with Start&Stop, finished in Funk White.

On sale and in demand in 83 different countries around the world,this new production milestone has once again focused the media spotlight on the Fiat 500, which is built at the Fiat Auto plant in Tychy, Poland and has confirmed its reputation as an Italian style icon capable of winning the hearts and minds of the public and the international motoring press.

In addition to success on the sales front, the Fiat 500 has already won 40 international awards, has received the prestigious Euro NCAP 5-star crash safety rating, and boasts a dedicated internet site (fiat500.com) with a community of over 120,000 users from 206 different countries taking part in 30 online activities and clocking up an amazing 240 million page visits.

This production record and the model's unquestionable popularity are the result of the 500 project being a genuine 'platform' for an entire family of cars. This was demonstrated by the debut of the 500C, the original cabriolet version of the 500 that pays homage to the 1957 soft-top but comes packed with advanced solutions in terms of build, engines and passenger comfort.

The UK range currently includes hatchback and Cabrio, several configurations (Pop, Lounge, Sport and by Diesel), one turbo-diesel and two petrol engines (all Euro 5), and availability of manual or sequential robotised (Dualogic) gearboxes. There are also special editions such as 500 Pink, and high performance Abarth 500s to consider.