Fiat introduced upgraded Linea and Punto in India.

Italian auto -makerFiat, which operates in Indiathrough a 50:50 partnership with Tata Motors, plans to set up 22 exclusiveshowrooms for Fiat cars this year, primarily in big cities.

At present, ther 50:50joint venture between Fiat and Tata motors has a network of 167a dealers acrossIndia.

The company iscurrenly working on a plan to launch a small car  in the country, rolled out upgraded versionsof its existing Linea and Punto models. 

The company, which is currently working on a plan to launch a small car in thecountry, today rolled out new, upgraded versions of its existing Linea andPunto models.

"The target for 2012 is to open 22 dedicated Fiat showrooms in agreementwith Tata. The focus this year is to expand our dealership network across India,"Fiat India Automobiles President and CEO Rajeev Kapoor told reporters.

He said some of the company's existing dealers operating showrooms that sellTata and Fiat cars under one roof will open Fiat exclusive outlets during thecourse of the year.
At present, the 50:50 joint venture between Fiat and Tata Motors has a networkof 167 dealers across India,he said.

Commenting on the new versions of the Fiat and Punto, Kapoor said: "Afterreceiving feedback from customers, we are launching new models of Linea andPunto with upgraded air-conditioning systems and better ground clearance, innew colours and interiors."

The new Punto models are priced between Rs 4.81 lakh and Rs 6.71 lakh(ex-showroom Delhi) and the Linea models will come with a price tag of Rs 6.83lakh to Rs 9.18 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The company is also evaluating the prospects for bringing a new car cheaperthan its existing Punto to Indiafrom its global portfolio and customise it for the market here.

"To operate in the volume segment, we need a car which is below Punto (inpricing). 
Currently we are working on a plan to launch such a car in India... Itwill be an Italian car with India-specific features," Kapoor said withoutproviding further details or the expected timeframe for the launch.

The company is also opening Fiat Cafes in India to provide an enhanced retailexperience to its consumers.

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