08.03.2004 FIRST OFFICIAL LOOK AT THE FACELIFTED FIAT SIENA AHEAD OF ITS MID WEEK BRAZILIAN LAUNCH

Following hard on the heels of the launch of the facelifted Fiat Palio hatchback comes the new Siena and Palio Weekend. The Siena is the saloon version of the Palio, and a key member of the 'World Car' family, while the Palio Weekend is the popular estate option.

Fiat Brazil have closely followed the styling changes made to the Palio on the Siena, which will be launched officially on Wednesday. At the front a new grille with chrome edging and new, larger multi-surface lens headlights, which wrap onto the wings and mould into new more prominent and deeper bumpers ensure a fresh new look.

At the rear the lamps gain width, intruding inwards onto the boot. A reprofiled rear bumper, optional 15 inch alloy wheels and large new-style Fiat badges complete the external makeover.

Under the bonnet a brand new GM-derived 1.8-litre engine is offered. Fitted with the 'Flex System', it allows petrol and alcohol fuel to be used in pure form or mixed to any ratio. It is the same propellant used locally in the GM Corsa and Meriva, however the Fiat system was designed by Magnetti Marelli, whereas the GM one was developed by Delphi.

by Iinuma Wesley in Brazil