Fiat Stilo 1.8 Flex Dualogic (2008) Fiat Stilo 1.8 Flex Dualogic Sporting (2008)

Fiat Automóveis introduces a facelift for the Brazilian-built Fiat Stilo; dubbed as the Stilo 2008, with the biggest improvement being the incorporation of the Dualogic gearbox system across the range.

The Dualogic gearbox, which has been developed by Magneti Marelli, is breaking onto new ground as it is being used for the first time on a Fiat production model in Brazil. It allows the driver to choose between two options to change gear, either by automatic operation or in manual sequential mode.

Externally facelifted Stilo 2008 incorporates the new red Fiat logo, mounted in the centre of the front grille and on the tailgate, for the first time. A number of cosmetic changes have also been wrought on the 5-door car, including a new design of the bumpers at the front they have a ribbed-effect spoiler section incorporating chrome-edged oval fog lights, while along the sides the external rear view mirrors which house turn signal indicators are new as are the chrome-finished side door rubbing strips a feature replicated across the tailgate lip, all of which is now standard for all versions. The rear spoiler is also revised and has been given a mild ribbed effect in the lower section which includes further cosmetic effects in the shape of angled exhaust exits.

The front grille has a 'grate' finish and it comes chrome-finished on the Flex and Abarth versions, while a black with red striped finish grille is used to denote the Sporting model, which also has 'sporty' features including darkened 'Venus 55' rear windows as standard equipment. 16-inch wheels are standard fit for Flex and Abarth versions, while 17-inch wheels are standard on the Sporting version which also gets a tailgate lip spoiler. The Stilo Abarth 2008 also recieves traditional Abarth shield.

The proven 1.8 Flex engine is fitted as standard across the range (except for the Abarth version), and is available with or without the Dualogic option. Maximum power is 112 CV (petrol) or 114 CV (alcohol) while peak torque is 17.8 kgm (petrol) or 18.5 kgm (alcohol). The Abarth version retains the usual 2.4-litre 20v petrol engine (max power 164 CV, peak torque 22.8 kgm).

The Dualogic gearbox is the most important new feature of the Stilo 2008 and it can be specified with paddle shifts positioned behind the steering wheel as an option. Besides this, new on-board equipment includes USB ports, Connect media system with integrated Bluetooth in the dashboard, and an MP3/WMA reader. An iPod port and tray holder is located in the glove box. There are also new options of fabric and leather trim finishes inside, dubbed NGI (next generation interior), while new exterior paint colours join the range. The HSD (High Safety Drive) includes dual air bags and ABS brakes. Other available features include climate control and the large electrically-operated Sky Roof.

There are five available versions of the Stilo 2008 now available for sale on the Brazilian market: the 1.8 Flex (R$51.270 - £14,459) opens the range, followed by the 1.8 Flex Dualogic (R$53.760 - £15,161), 1.8 Flex Sporting (R$59.440 - £16,763), 1.8 Flex Sporting Dualogic (R$61.930 - £17,465) and finally the 2.4 20v Abarth (R$90.200 - £25,438).

by Claudio Perlini