Fiat Professional, the commercial vehicle arm of Fiat Group Automobiles South Africa, has just announced the arrival of the Brazilian-built Strada Sporting, which is based on the outgoing-generation Strada Adventure version.

Fiat Professional, the commercial vehicle arm of Fiat Group Automobiles South Africa, has just announced the arrival of the Strada Sporting. Based on the popular 1.6 ELX version, the attractive newcomer delivers on value by topping up the Strada’s already well-stacked list of standard equipment.

The Strada Sporting is based around the outgoing-generation version of the Brazilian Strada Adventure model; the new Strada model was introduced in late August in Brazil, although the outgoing model is still in production as a Latin American range entry level model. Fiat Automóveis (Brazil) is now responsible for the South African market and has been introducing models from its range onto the market, including the Uno.

The South African market only Strada Sporting is based on the popular 1.6 ELX version, the attractive newcomer delivers on value by topping up the Strada’s already well-stacked list of standard equipment with the following extras for a small price premium of just R4 100: tonneau cover – special flush-closing mechanism means that you don’t have to fasten or unfasten cumbersome hooks every time you need access to the load bay; Bluetooth – neatly integrated hands-free functionality; smash ‘n grab application on all windows; unique Sporting decals on the sides and rear tailgate; and distinctive metallic black or silver paint finish.

Features the Sporting shares with the Strada 1.6 ELX: electric windows; stereo system with CD front loader; air conditioning; colour-coded grille, bumpers and door handles; driver’s airbag and pretensioned seatbelts; front fog lights; and alloy wheels.

It features a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine employing a twin-overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder and Magneti Marelli electronically-controlled, multi-point fuel injection. Generates 74 kW of power at 5 500 r/min, matched to 140 Nm of torque at 4 000 r/min. Top speed of 170 km/h and average fuel consumption figure of 8,7 l/100 km.

The core strengths of the Strada are: a maximum load capacity across the range of 715 kg – effectively placing the Strada as a three-quarter tonner in a half-tonner price segment; 20 000 km service intervals; a  tough load box liner for all variants; location of the full-size spare wheel behind the passenger seat for safety and convenience; key-operated central locking (with Fiat-code immobiliser) and power steering across the range; a specially designed rear axle which enables the vehicle to negotiate rugged terrain (and avoid ‘middelmannetjie’ scrapes) with ease; and ‘lifestyle’-oriented – enhanced with models such as the Strada X-Space Adventure (extended cab) and now the new Strada Sporting.

Roberto Nobili, the Country Manager for Fiat Professional, explains the rationale behind the Strada Sporting: “In its segment, the charismatic Strada has always stood out as the lifestyle choice for buyers. In addition to all its practical features, its looks and car-like stance has made it the favourite with those wanting a tad more exclusivity. We’re certain that the Sporting with its value-added features will be even more appealing.”

South African Recommended Retail Prices (incl. VAT): Fiat Strada 1.2 EL – R87 700; Fiat Strada 1.2 EL a/c – R97 200; Fiat Strada 1.6 EL – R105 600; Fiat Strada 1.7 TD EL – R115 200; Fiat Strada 1.7 TD EL a/c – R124 600; Fiat Strada 1.6 ELX – R129 900; Fiat Strada 1.6 Sporting – R134 000; Fiat Strada 1.4 X-Space – R101 900; Fiat Strada 1.4 X-Space Adventure – R138 900.