Major changes to Fiat range

ALMOST the entire Fiat range will see changes in 1999 with the biggest alteration to the line-up coming in the autumn when the new Punto is launched, with sales expected to at least match the current model, which sold more than 50,000 in the UK last year.

In January, a clutchless manual gearbox will be introduced on the Seicento, called the Citymatic, and the Bravo and Brava will have a revised model line-up. The Brava 1.4 engine will be replaced by a 1.2-litre offering better economy, while a 1.9-litre diesel will be introduced on the five-door Brava. A facelift is planned for the Marea in March, which will include the introduction of a new 2.4-litre common rail diesel five-cylinder engine.

The unusually-styled Multipla MPV could reach British shores by the end of the year, when it will go head-to-head with the Renault Scenic, with either a 1.6-litre petrol or 1.9-litre common rail diesel engine priced between £13,000 and £15,500.