Externally the Fiat Stilo MY2008, which is only available on South American markets in 5-door format, gets a quite detailed visual makeover. The Stilo MY2008 will get a cosmetic makeover at the rear with the Sporting version getting a new tailgate spoiler, new rear lights with thin chrome bezels, and a chrome trim across the base of the tailgate.

The 'Model Year 2008' facelift of the Brazilian-built Fiat Stilo has broken cover ahead of its arrival this winter on the Latin American markets. While in Europe the unloved Stilo has quietly faded away with the arrival earlier this year of the Bravo, in South America it remains a key member of the Fiat Automóveis product line up with a medium term future ahead of it.

Externally the Stilo MY2008, which is only available in South America in 5-door format, gets a detailed visual makeover. An imposing new slatted front spoiler gives the car a more sporty feel and this effect is extended to the front grille which features a mix of horizontal and vertical slats. The two horizontal sections of the grille on the Sporting version are colour coded to the car's finish and for the first time the Stilo range will get to wear the new Fiat badge. Large oval foglights are inserted into the front spoiler of the Sporting version and come as standard. The Sporting will feature colour coded bumpers and sills. Seven body colours will be available across the range.

To help Fiat's ambitions to push the facelifted Stilo model upmarket the range-toping version gets side door running strips which gain new chrome finisher inserts, and the chunky door mirror now incorporates a wrap-around turn signal repeater. Helping to give the car even more road presence will be the large five split-spoke wheels and a slightly raised ride height. The new Stilo will also get a cosmetic makeover at the rear with the range-topping Sporting version getting a new tailgate spoiler, new rear lights with thin chromed bezels, and a chrome trim running across the base of the tailgate, similar to that which is to be incorporated on the Brazilian market Linea. The lower rear bumper section has been cut out and the darkened insert includes twin exhaust outlets with triangular chrome moulded end sections. The Sporting will also get darkly tinted glass.

Opulent specification will include the large 'Sky Window', Bluetooth, cruise control, CD/MP3 player, dual-zone air conditioning, 17-inch 215/50 tyres, ABS + TC (traction control), high level brake light, airbags and electric steering wheel dual drive. The Microsoft Windows and Fiat developed developed Blue&Me infotelematic system may also be available on the Stilo after launch depending if Fiat Automóveis decide it would be a popular specification.

The Stilo MY2008 will continue to use the outgoing model's GM-sourced 1.8 Flex (dual fuel) engine. Power will be increased to 112 CV petrol/114 CV alcohol (both at 5,500 rpm) to bring it into line with the similar engine which is now used in the also locally-built new Punto; and the car will be available in two options: 1.8 8v and 1.8 8v Sporting. However the most significant technical upgrade for the facelifted model will be the new option of a new robotised gearbox (automatic + sequential) which has been developed by Magneti Marelli Brazil. The 1.8 Flex Sporting will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds (petrol) or 10.6 seconds (alcohol).

The Brazilian media has speculated that the forthcoming Fiat 1.9 16v engine, developed from the European 'Torque' engine, could find its way into the Stilo. However, this unit will be launched in the Linea next year and only then will it gradually find its way into other models such as the Punto, Stilo and Idea. Fiat will also now discontinue the 2.4 Abarth version (also in 5 door format) which has only ever sold locally in tiny numbers, mainly due to its uncompetitive pricing.

by Claudio Perlini

Photos: Rodrigo Pina Farraá (Clube Stilo)