Just as Fiat Automóveis celebrates its leadership of the Brazilian new car market in 2006 it is introducing new features on its model range to improve its offerings for its customers even further.

The ground-breaking Siena Tetrafuel sedan is now to be offered with air conditioning as standard equipment beyond the GNV system, as well as electric power assisted steering, central locking and electric windows. The Siena Tetrafuel is the first production passenger vehicle to offer four different options for fuel; and it is distinguished by its versatility, modern nature, excellent fuel economy and its ample internal space, and now it will become even more competitive in the South American markets. The air conditioning, now supplied as part of the standard equipment, comes without any additional change in the final price and allows the customer to save R$ 3,780 (£900). This offer will be still more attractive and of beneficial advantage to Taxi Drivers, who gain additional tax benefits.

As well as the Siena Tetrafuel, the Fiat Mille Fire Flex, Fiorino Furgão Flex and Uno Furgão Flex (the latter two engine options which were introduced in December) also receive new interior equipment content upgrades, now offering the user more quality and comfort, and also without any increase in price.
 

Meanwhile, with the launch of the off-road styled "Adventure" version in September 2006, the Fiat Idea "mini MPV" has gained more ways to compete against its rivals in the market. In the final three months of 2006, the average sales of the B-segment model was pegged at around 2,700 units a month, which was a 31 percent higher figure than the average sales managed by the Idea from January 2006 up to the end of September. 

According to Fiat Automòveis, those results have drastically changed the mix of versions delivered to customers, and now the Adventure option represents 42 percent of the total sales of Idea. This consolidates the success of Adventure branded concept; Fiat was the Brazilian pioneer in the segment for light and cost-effective off-road vehicles, which started with the launch of Palio Adventure back in 1999. In 2006 the segment in Brazil grew 7.7 percent comparing to 2005.

by Claudio Perlini