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The Fiat Strada
is becoming a familiar sight on South African roads with its unique blend of
style, practicality and affordability has ensured that it has been able to carve
a very successful niche for itself in the light commercial vehicle market.
The Strada
success story in South Africa is set to continue with the introduction of the
all-new Strada Working 1.4, which will be followed into the showrooms shortly by
the Strada Life 1.4). These two new models together with the extended cab Strada
X-Space Adventure 1.4 comprise the revitalised, three-model range which is now
fully imported from Brazil. In addition to sharing the same 60 kW 1.4-litre
8-valve Multi Point Injection powerplant, all three models benefit from a host
of aesthetic refinements. These three models are the last-generation of Strada
which Fiat Brazil continues to manufacture at Betim in
particular as an entry-level version for the local market.
Fiat Brazil is also responsible for the South African
market.
Oscar Rivoli, Managing Director of Fiat
Group Automobiles, says: “Detail changes, most notably the
adoption of the more powerful 1.4-litre engine across the
range, as well as the shift to Brazilian production in the
state-of-the-art Betim plant which is renowned for its
quality, will ensure that the Strada remains highly
competitive in the smaller pick-up arena.”
At a glance then, the changes to the
Model Year 2009 Fiat Strada range are: Two new model
variants which replace the previously designated EL and ELX
models – the ‘entry-level’ Working and the ‘up-specced’ Life
(specific details for this model to follow when it is
launched). X-Space Adventure remains as extended cab
version; a new 60 kW 1.4-litre 8-valve MPI engine – now
standard across the range – replaces the smaller capacity
1.2-litre engine as well as the 1.6-litre powerplant; new
interior trim; new Fiat badging; new wheel caps (Working
only – the Life and X-Space Adventure are equipped with
alloy wheels); new instrument cluster
The
Strada’s core strengths are a maximum load capacity of 715 kg for the standard
cab versions (700 kg for the X-Space Adventure) i.e. you get a three-quarter
tonner for the price of a half tonner. The only under one-ton bakkie range to
feature an extended cab ‘X-Space’ variant. This not only makes the cabin airier,
but most importantly adds valuable extra space of more than 30 centimetres or
300 litres behind the seats – very useful for storing small luggage items or
clothes without occupying the passenger seat. In fact, the space is equivalent
in size to that of a small car’s boot. There’s an added security benefit too:
items that would normally have to be stored in the rear box can now be safely
locked away indoors. What’s even more remarkable is the fact that all this extra
space has not intruded too much into the rear load box, which shrinks from 1685m
to 1303mm in length. The width is unaffected at 1350mm (1090mm between
wheel arches).
The payload for the X-Space is rated at 700 kg as opposed to 715
kg for the standard version. It has 20 000 km service intervals and tough load
box liner which extends over the tail gate for all variants. Sturdy hooks are
positioned around the edges of the box and on the floor where they won’t get in
the way of loading and unloading. These can be used to fasten objects securely.
Access to the load compartment is made easier by the low box ground clearance
and a tailgate that opens to 90 degrees. The tailgate is coated with a non-slip
surface and can support a weight of up to 300 kg.
The full-size spare wheel is
located behind the passenger seat for safety and convenience (standard cab
versions only), there is key-operated central locking and power steering across
the range, a specially designed, omega-shaped rear axle – the central part is
raised which enables the vehicle to negotiate rugged terrain (and avoid
‘middelmannetjie’ scrapes) with ease and all of which makes the Strada one of the most
affordable pick-up ranges in South Africa.
Enhancing the ownership prospect, the
Fiat Strada has 20 000 km service intervals and enjoys full
after-sales support in South Africa thanks to a
comprehensive parts inventory and the back-up of trained
technicians at Fiat dealerships countrywide. Fiat Group
Automobiles South Africa offers Fiat owners a 24-month
Manufacturer Warranty, unlimited mileage and an additional
12-month Dealer Extended Warranty or up to 100 000km in
total, three years on paintwork and five years on rust
anti-perforation. The new models are covered by the AA
Fleetcare roadside assistance for 12 months. The service is
active 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is available by
calling a dedicated toll-free number. Recommended Retail
Prices (incl. VAT): Fiat Strada Working 1.4 (R105 500), Fiat
Strada Life 1.4 (R129 500) and Fiat Strada X-Space Adventure
1.4 (R164 500).
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