Not even a week after Volkswagen sounded the death knell for the Citi Golf, Fiat has announced that after a run of 10 years and 33 000 sales, the Palio will be retired at the end of 2009.
As Fiat had previously marketed only the Uno range, the Palio enabled the company to expand its product portfolio when it was introduced to the South African market in 2000. Originally a hatchback, the Palio range was extended to include the Weekend station wagon, and the Sienna saloon.
Over time, the Palio assumed its position as an entry-level hatch, the most recent being the five-door 1,2 Palio in Active trim level, and benefitted from ongoing improvements, including a major facelift in 2005, which a new front and rear end. The Palio also saw several special versions and limited edition models such as the Palio Go!, Palio Eco, Palio Racing, and Palio Special Series - the first car in its segment in South Africa to offer BlueTooth hands-free connectivity.
"The Palio has been a consistent performer and has helped put Fiat on the map in South Africa. So while its passing is tinged with nostalgia, the future for the Fiat brand in this country is even more exiting. Without wanting to give too much away, all I can say is watch this space because some great things are going to be happening in 2010. The one involves the Punto, a model that is synonymous with world class quality, safety and comfort, while the other involves our jewel in the crown - the inimitable Fiat 500," says Oscar Rivoli, managing director of Fiat Group Automobiles South Africa.
Read about the new Fiat models headed for the South African market in the December 2009 issue of CAR Magazine, on sale November 16.
CAR Blogs
MORE
