Fiat launches more affordable Linea Classic

Mumbai, September 25, 2013: Fiat India has launched a more affordable version of its Linea, the Linea Classic, dropping prices by a lakh and effectively positioning the mid-size saloon closer to the retail tag of a sub-four-metre car.

The Fiat Linea Classic is powered by the 1.3-litre Multijet diesel motor that gives 75bhp. The 90bhp diesel (seen on the Linea) has not made it to the Linea Classic. The diesel car comes in two versions -- the Classic and the Classic Plus. The Linea Classic is also being offered in petrol, powered by the same 1.4-litre engine as in the current Linea.

The company was able to keep costs down with the omission of VGT (seen on the 90bhp verison). In terms of equipment, the carmaker has omitted some features like airbags, steering-mounted controls and chrome touches, among other things. Alloy wheels and climate control are available only on the Classic Plus diesel variant.

This new model will make way for a new Linea, already being tested in India. The Linea sold 809 units in April-August 2013 as against 1,004 units in the previous year-earlier period.

Fiat is following an aggressive pricing strategy with the Linea Classic. The petrol is priced at Rs 5.99 lakh while the diesel is priced from Rs 6.96 lakh and goes up to Rs 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) for the Classic Plus diesel version.

Fiat India is gearing up for the launch of the Grand Jeep Cherokee and Wrangler around the festive season.