|
Fiat has
outlined in full detail the facelifted Sedici 'crossover'
which boasts a swage of cosmetic changes as well as two new
engines under the bonnet: a Suzuki-sourced 1.6 petrol unit,
with 120 bhp, as well as Fiat Powertrain's 2.0 Multijet
turbodiesel with 135 bhp. The Sedici is built for Fiat by
the Japanese carmaker at its factory in Hungary and the
petrol unit replaces the somewhat lethargic 1.6-litre 107
bhp unit that has been in the car since its launch. The new
units make the Sedici the “best in
class” SUV for CO2 emissions.
With the new Sedici, the Fiat range acquires greater
coherence and modernity, thanks to styling that is more
consistent with that of other models. Today, the appearance
of the new model incorporates a series of details that
immediately refer to the modern crossovers, with a solution
that is trend-proof and destined to last a long time. The
new bumper, reminiscent of robust “bull bars”, adds strength
and character to the design, while the metallic trim around
the fog lights emphasises a practical elegance that is
perfectly at home even in the most prestigious city centres.
The most distinctive feature of the new Sedici is its
ability to move effortlessly from chaotic urban traffic to
tough outdoor routes over rough and slippery terrain.
Heir to an already successful model (80,000 units sold in
all, and around 47,000 in Italy alone, where the Fiat Sedici
4x4 is the best selling off-road vehicle), Fiat’s renewed
SUV is designed to target customers seeking distinction in
the form of a refined automobile with elegant lines. At the
same time the new Sedici is also ideal for drivers wanting a
car that is compact, agile and safe in city traffic. The new
Sedici measures 411 centimetres in length, 176 in width, 162
in height (160.5 cm for the 4x2), and 250 cm in wheelbase.
The new model offers an improved leisure experience,
especially for nature lovers and drivers seeking to satisfy
a taste for adventure. This is merit of the car's
all-terrain look and its adaptable, on-demand four wheel
drive system that lets you switch freely between 4x2 and 4x4
drive, further reducing fuel consumption compared to other
off-road vehicles in the same class.
The customer can choose between three versions (Dynamic,
Emotion and Experience), two drive systems (4x2 and 4x4), 8
bodywork colours and two new engines, the 120 HP 1.6 16v
petrol and the 135 HP 2.0 Multijet diesel with DPF
(particulate filter) as standard. Compared to those of the
previous model, these two new engines deliver more power
while also producing significantly less CO2. They can be
combined with five or six-speed gearboxes (and on some
markets, like Germany, even a 4-speed automatic, available
only on the 1.6 petrol 4x2). In Italy, the on-the-road
prices for the petrol 120 HP 1.6 16v model start from 18,350
Euro for the 4x2 and from 20,350 Euro for the 4x4, while for
the 135 HP 2.0 Multijet, prices start from 21,350 Euro for
the 4x2 version and 23,350 Euro for the 4x4 model.
Flexible and eco friendly
engines
The New Sedici is equipped with two brand new engines (120
HP 1.6 16v and 135 HP 2.0 Multijet 16v) that come with five
and six gears respectively, characterised by accurate
engagement and reduced loads (4 gear automatic transmission
for the petrol 1.6 4x2 wheel drive is also available for
some foreign markets). Euro 5 compliant, the two engines can
boast a considerable reduction in CO2 emissions compared
with engines in the previous range. In fact, in comparison
with the 107 HP 1.6, the new 120 HP engine (in addition to
an extra 13 HP) shows a reduction of roughly 10%, in both
the 4x2 and 4x4 versions. And to an even greater extent,
compared with the 120 HP 1.9 Multijet, the new 135 HP 2.0
Multijet (in addition to an extra 15 HP) brings down CO2
emissions by 20% in the 4x4 version (they fall by 17% in the
4x2 model). So, these figures put the New Sedici at the top
of the class, confirming the continuous commitment of the
Fiat brand to combining “fun to drive” with protection of
the environment.
More specifically, a natural development of the 1.9
Multijet, the new 135 HP 2.0 MultiJet exhibits several
advantages both from a performance point of view (with an
increase in torque and power) and in terms of emissions and
fuel consumption: the values for the 4x2 version are a mere
134 g/km of CO2 (combined cycle) combined with consumption
of 4.4 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle, 5.1 l/100 km in
the mixed cycle and 6.4 l/100 km in the urban cycle (the
values for the 4x4 version are 142 g/km of CO2, 4.6 l/100 km
in the extra-urban cycle, 4.6 l/100 km in the mixed cycle
and 7.0 l/100 km in the urban cycle).
It should be emphasised that, on top of a considerable
reduction in consumption and emissions, the New Sedici 135
HP 2.0 Multijet boasts performances at the top of its class:
it has a top speed of 190 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h
in 10.5 seconds (the figures for the 4x4 version are 180
km/h and 11.2 seconds respectively). In addition, the
flexibility of the vehicle has been enhanced due to 320 N/m
torque which reaches a maximum delivery at 1,500 rpm.
The 1.6 16v petrol engine develops 120 HP at 6,000 rpm and a
torque of 156 Nm (15.9 kgm) at 4,400 rpm. Ideal for city
driving and winding roads, the new engine has been developed
with a particular emphasis on performance and fuel
consumption. This is due to a variable timing system which
contributes to ensuring optimum torque and power at any
speed. The New Sedici equipped in this way has a top speed
of 185 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds
combined with fuel consumption of 5.2 l/100 km in the
extra-urban cycle, 6.2 l/100 km in the mixed cycle and 7.9
l/100 km in the urban cycle (the figures for the 4x4 version
are 175 km/h, 11.5 seconds, 5.9 l/100 km, 6.5 l/100 km and
9.2 l/100 km). Thus, a brilliant engine and economical at
the same time.
Italian elegance and style
The biggest stylistic changes are on
the front, which has been renewed in perfect harmony with
the Fiat family feeling introduced with the Grande Punto and
Bravo models. In fact, it now has a larger front with new
“off-road” protection and fog lights with new chromed frames
that emphasise the front and enrich the imposing bumpers,
lending the vehicle greater elegance and refinement in terms
of detail.
More specifically, the new bumpers provide greater strength:
in fact, the lower part calls to mind that of a large
bull-bar countersunk in the panel. Between the two
headlamps, now there is a new grill that preserves, in all
its treatments, the family feeling present throughout the
entire Fiat range while the fog lights, enclosed by a
special trim, give a sense of protection. The combination of
these elements helps support the entire front section, which
visibly seems capable of overcoming any obstacle and
integrates seamlessly with the rest of the vehicle.
The stylistic changes were completed with the introduction
of two new bodywork colours (pearly white and a new grey
tone) and the adoption of new 16” alloy rims with 205/60 R16
tyres that help make the vehicle more energetic, dynamic and
sporty (standard on Emotion and Experience, optional for the
Dynamic model). Among other things, it should be pointed out
that the new model comes in 8 bodywork colours, all aimed at
elevating the vehicle's design, which is lively and visibly
distinctive.
Therefore, the New Sedici differs from the current SUVs
thanks to its elegant profile, innovatively styled lights,
the uniqueness of the movement of the waist line, the
harmonious rear and the strength provided by its side
inserts. In short, we are talking about a vehicle that is
unique in its field, which combines sportiness with elegance
evident in the modern flawless style, with a long, sloping
bonnet that fully expresses its power and sportiness with
powerful wings and exposed wheel arches. The rear and side
glasses start bending downward then launch dynamically
towards the top embracing the back: the feeling is one of an
agile feline ready to jump. The large, luminous roof, with
the characteristic rear pillar, projects this strength
towards the front where the distinctive light clusters stand
out with their seductive forms and modern, hi-tech elements.
Finally, the generous side strips provide protection during
both uncommon trips and when manoeuvring through crowded
cities.
In addition to the original style, the dimensions of the New
Sedici also make it one of the most original vehicles in its
segment. Measuring 411 cm in length, 176 cm in width, 162 cm
in height, with a 250 cm wheelbase, it's one of the most
compact SUVs in the category, which, for the customer,
translates to greater manageability, especially in urban
environments
The New Sedici has been renewed in terms of its interior
fitting. The instrument panel is more modern with a new
centrally positioned display. The HI-FI system, now equipped
with 8 speakers, has been enhanced with another central
speaker on the dashboard (standard on all versions) which
improves the sound quality, increasing the pitch of the
sound stream and the spatiality. In addition, the New Sedici
console offers a new digital climate control display (only
available in the Emotion and Experience versions) located
beneath the radio system. In this way, the customer can
constantly keep the temperature inside the compartment under
control and regulate its distribution and air flow speed.
For safer night-time driving, from today, both steering
wheel radio controls and those for head light levelling are
back-lit.
A new technical fabric has been introduced for the
upholstery - alternate frames with a shiny/opaque effect
available in the Dynamic version. The most demanding
customers can choose from two leather interiors in black or
natural leather. In addition, the New Sedici seats are
comfortable, ergonomic and safe and can be adjusted to
different positions quickly and with minimal effort.
“Off-road” character for
leisure time
The Sedici model comes in 4x2 and 4x4 wheel drive to satisfy
all needs of both those who prefer front-wheel drive
transmission together with the SUV look for practical city
driving, and those who desire four wheel drive transmission
to overcome any obstacle the road throws up, without
compromise. In particular, the four wheel drive version uses
an electronically controlled 4x4 wheel drive system which
enables variable torque to be distributed over the front and
rear wheels. More specifically, the New Sedici has been
fitted with an “on-demand” 4x4 system with a centre
differential and 3 operating modes - which combines genuine
off-road performance with the driving comfort of a road car.
In fact, it represents a synthesis of the four wheel and
front wheel drive transmissions and, therefore, makes best
use of the strengths of each. For this reason, in normal
conditions the system behaves like a two wheel drive
vehicle, with the advantage of lower fuel consumption and
low emissions; by contrast, in poor road conditions with low
grip, the system acts like a 4x4 wheel drive transmission,
automatically regulating the distribution of torque between
the front and rear axle, thus increasing the level of the
vehicle's safety.
At the heart of this new transmission system is the
electromagnetically operated dry multi-plate clutch coupling
system that modulates the transfer of torque based on the
traction demands. In detail, the electrical impulse that
generates the magnetic field for coupling the discs is
received when the ABS sensors detect relative slip levels
between the front and rear wheels. The New Sedici makes it
possible to switch from “2WD” to “4WD” transmission quickly
and easily: in fact, you just need to push a button on the
dashboard to select one of the three operating modes (“2WD”,
“AUTO” and “LOCK”), with no need for a separate gear lever.
In detail, in "2WD” only the front wheels transmit torque.
The 4x4 system is not engaged and there are no "dissipative"
effects. This mode is more suited to normal driving
conditions (dry roads) and to obtain lower fuel consumption.
The second function is “AUTO”: in the majority of
conditions, torque is transmitted to the front wheels. The
distribution of torque between the front and rear is
controlled automatically. The system supplies optimum torque
to the rear wheels when the sensors detect low grip, or in
anticipation of a loss in traction (for example, when
accelerating). Finally, in “LOCK” mode, the distribution of
torque is locked to ensure prompt and stable take-off in
extreme conditions (sand, mud and snow). In this mode, the
torque distribution ratio is 50/50 between the front and
rear axles. This torque split is maintained up to speeds of
60 km/h, above which the system reverts to “Auto” mode to
guarantee a more comfortable drive.
Thanks to this special 4x4 wheel drive transmission and a
minimum ground clearance of 19cm, the new model, when
needed, is even able to handle rough and difficult terrain,
as demonstrated by the angle of "incidence" of 20° (the
maximum rear angle that can be handled by an off-road
vehicle without the body touching the ground).
Safety and comfort in a
"compact" vehicle
The appearance of the New Sedici gives the impression of a
vehicle with an elegant design but at the same time solid,
reliable and robust: something that is borne out by the
design measures implemented to produce the model. Starting
with a body designed in line with the most modern standards
for the purpose of impact resistance: a rigid compartment to
protect passengers and equipped with high absorption level
zones on the exterior parts. In addition, in the field of
preventive safety, the New Sedici offers an ideal driving
set-up that never tires on long journeys; perfectly legible
instruments thanks to the new white lighting of the
instrument panel and buttons that are easy to reach and
activate; the compartment is quiet, the visibility
excellent, and the climate control and internal and external
lighting are effective. Features that not only guarantee
high levels of wellness inside the car, but improve the
driver's attention and therefore complete control in all
road conditions.
In the field of active safety, the new vehicle includes an
effective braking system, prompt and progressive that uses
ventilated 280 mm front discs, and at the back, an important
development has been introduced; 220 mm drum brakes have
been replaced by new 280 mm disc brakes. In addition, to
guarantee greater vehicle control, the sophisticated
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is available in the Fiat
Sedici on request, a system that intervenes in conditions
approaching the limit, when vehicle stability is at risk,
and assists the driver in controlling the car. Furthermore,
the ESP is combined with an electronically controlled active
differential, in addition to a latest generation braking
system with ABS complete with EBD brake distributor. The
latter distributes the braking action over the four wheels,
in order to stop the rear wheels locking and ensuring a
balanced vehicle response in all conditions. In addition, it
adapts the functioning of the system in line with the wheel
grip conditions and brake pad efficiency. And finally, it
reduces the temperature of the front brakes and thrust
required to the brake servo.
Finally, in order to ensure maximum passive safety, the new
model offers up to 6 airbags - 2 at the front, 2 side
airbags and 2 window-bags - all controlled by an electronic
control unit that assesses the severity of impact through
sensors, calibrated through a series of crash tests
conducted at the test centre. Furthermore, front seatbelts
with pre-tensioner and load limiter, rear three-point
seatbelts, energy absorbing steering wheel and ISOFIX
fastenings on rear seats are all standard.
Therefore, a safe and reliable vehicle that also guarantees
a very smooth and accurate drive, brilliant road holding and
the highest level of passenger comfort. Due, in particular,
to suspensions that ensure the dynamic behaviour of the
vehicle of the higher segment. For the front, an independent
McPherson type wheel solution was chosen while the rear
suspension was fitted with wheels connected by a torsion
beam. The latter solution combines the traditional benefits
of a simple and rational scheme from a weight and size
viewpoint with performances in terms of comfort and weather
handling obtainable only through hi-tech suspension systems.
The 205/60 R 16 tyres also contribute to the excellent road
handling of the New Sedici, which attain a better balance
between handling and comfort and off-road (on non-asphalt
surfaces) and "winter" (on snow-covered surfaces)
performances. In the top of the range versions, Emotion and
Experience, the 16" alloy rims are new.
Range (Italian market)
The New Sedici offers a range of vehicles that has something
for everyone, equipped with all the devices that a modern
car can have, including those that were, up until recently,
reserved for higher-end vehicles. Therefore, having finally
mastered the "spartan off-road" concept, the first version
of the New Sedici (Dynamic) offers as standard the most
requested features in this market segment: manual climate
control, radio with CD player, remote control central
locking, electric front windows, electronically controlled
door mirrors, height-adjustable steering wheel, 60/40
split-folding rear seats and passenger side backrest pocket.
In addition, a range of important safety devices come as
standard: from fog lights to front and side airbags, ABS
complete with EBD, Isofix fastenings, the key with
“immobiliser”, the deadlock system. As far the exterior is
concerned, the first version of the Fiat Sedici is
distinguished by the black longitudinal bars and the
specially designed 16" hub caps. Finally, the interior
compartment offers renewed and elegant upholstery in a
technical grey-coloured fabric.
On the other hand, for those who want an even richer
vehicle, the Emotion version is available, which adds a
sand-coloured stainless steel trim, special internal chrome
finishes, electric rear windows, driver's seat complete with
manually adjustable height and Luxury Pack which includes:
automatic climate control with a new digital display and
leather steering wheel complete with radio controls. As far
the exterior goes, the new Sedici Emotion is distinguished
by the grey longitudinal bars and 16" alloy rims (205/60
R16), protective shields on the bumpers, mirrors and
external handles the same colour as the bodywork.
And finally, compared with the Emotion version, the third
specification (Experience) also offers leather seats, tinted
windows, ESP and window bags. Not forgetting that, in
addition to the standard elements, valuable optionals can be
chosen: worthy of mention are the Easy-Go door opening
system and innovative 3D map Navigator, with touchscreen,
DVD reader, 40 Gb hard disk and SD card slot.
Technical specifications
Standard and optional equipment
(Italian market)
ItaliaspeedTV:
Nuovo Fiat Sedici -
1
/
2
/ 3
/ 4
/ 5
|
