Fiat Auto SA has entered the fiercely-contested subcompact market in South Africa with four models of the stylish Stilo. Prices start at R154 900 for the three-door 1,6 Active model.
Fiat Auto SA has entered the fiercely-contested subcompact market in South Africa with four models of the stylish Stilo. Prices start at R154 900 for the three-door 1,6 Active model.
The Rosslyn-based manufacturer will offer the two Stilo and two Stilo Multi Wagon models with a choice of either a 1,6-litre four-cylinder or 1,9 JTD four-cylinder turbodiesel powerplants.
“The launch of the Fiat Stilo will take Fiat Auto SA into new territory – where only the best technology and innovation will satisfy an increasingly discerning customer,” said Managing Director of Fiat Auto SA Giorgio Gorelli.
”The arrival of the Fiat Multipla, Doblo’ Cargo (launched earlier this year) and Stilo sanctions a new era for Fiat in SA,” said Greg Levine, commercial director for Fiat Auto South Africa.
The Stilo is a sporty car with taut surfaces and architectural lines. The front-end features bold air intakes and the car’s line flows from the front pillars that pass over the bonnet before running between the grille and headlamps.
By contrast, the Stilo Multi Wagon is part estate, part multi-purpose vehicle and looks distinctly different from the hatchback. It has large glass areas and a spacious interior and its tailgate opens to access up to 510 litres of space.
The 1,9 JTD develops 85 kW and 255 N.m and Fiat Auto SA claims the powerplant will propel the three-door hatch from zero to 100km/h in 10,2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 192km/h. The 1,6-litre 16-valve four cylinder produces 76kW and 145 N.m. Performance is rated at 185km/h with the 0-100km/h sprint a claimed 10,8 seconds. Both models feature five-speed manual gearboxes.
All models feature electrically-adjustable and heated exterior mirrors and height-adjustable steering wheel. The instrument panel features an alphanumerical LCD display that can display short messages on a rolling 14-character screen and also repeat radio and phone function information. The screen shows the frequency of the broadcasting station or a message if the RDS system is active or if the CD is being played. It also alerts the driver with an alarm if they exceed a speed limit set before departure.
In addition, the Stilo’s electric power steering system offers drivers a choice of two different setting programs. The first ensures maximum empathy between driver and car and is ideal for mixed out-of-town routes. The second lightens the steering to minimise effort and suited to city driving and tricky parking manoeuvres.
Two levels of standard trim will be available for the respective Fiat Stilo 1,6 Active and 1,9 JTD Dynamic models. Active models are equipped with central locking, smart front and rear windscreen wipers, heated electric door mirrors, and electric windows for front seat passengers with a one-touch function. The 1,6 Active features 15-inch alloy wheels with 195/65 tyres.
Fiat CODE immobiliser and “My Car”, a control reconfiguration system, follow-me-home headlights, climate control, front puddle lights, and a height adjustable driver’s seat are all standard. The rear seat folds in a 60/40 split.
Safety features include ABS with EBD, multistage front airbags for driver and passenger, side and window airbags. Electric headlight adjustment, a radio/CD combination with 6-speakers, interior dimming lights and an exterior temperature display complete the Active package.
Dynamic models add an anti-tow alarm, colour-coded door mirrors and handles, 16-inch alloy wheels shod with 205/55 tyres, driver’s seat lumbar adjustment, a storage compartment under the driver’s seat, illuminated vanity mirrors, a rear ashtray, an adjustable front armrest with an oddments compartment and a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear lever.
All four Fiat Stilo versions are covered by Fiat’s three-years/100 000km warranty (three years on paintwork and five years on anti-perforation allowing peace of mind through dealerships across the country).
Fiat Stilo Prices (incl. VAT)
Stilo 1,6 Active R154 900
Stilo 1,9 JTF Dynamic R189 900
Stilo Multi Wagon 1,6 Active R172 900
Stilo Multi Wagon 1,9 JTD Dynamic R206 900