News has poured in that Fiat is readying the much awaited Linea sedan for a October launch, just in time for the festive season. The Linea for Fiat is a make of break car which will define’s the company’s fortunes in the Indian market. The Linea has been launched in Turkey and is doing rather well there. In India the Linea will be launched with both petrol and diesel engine and the trump card will the the 1.3 litre multijet engine which is likely to be offered with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) and enhanced power of around 90 bhp! The petrol unit would be a 1.4 litre one and is likely to be a slouch unless powered by a turbo. Expect pricing between Rs. 5.5-7.5 lakh.

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The Linea is a solid built European car with Maserati inspired gorgeous styling which is sure to win many admirers. What Fiat needs to watch out for is the Tata sales and service network which isn’t upto the mark in terms of customer satisfaction and upscale buyers of the Linea are likely to make a hue and cry about that. Also Fiat’s spares stock is apalling, Palio spares sometimes take over 2 months to get to the workshops!

So Fiat, you have a wonderful product, price it right and sell and service it with dedication and passion. How do you think the Linea would do in the Indian market?