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The Indo-Italian job

The Palio is ready for a new, aggressive innings for Fiat in India. Do you want it in your garage now?

REVISION TEST The new Palio is undoubtedly a handsome machine now and promises improved fuel economy

Will Ram Gopal Verma's planned remake of Sholay recreate the box office magic from two decades ago? True, the new Sholay will have Amitabh Bachchan playing Gabbar, but with due respect to Mr. Bachchan, will that erase the original Gabbar (Amjad Khan's) eccentricities from the minds of the audience? Fat chance.

Similarly, just as Fiat and Tata get set to launch the new facelifted Palio in the beginning of next year with an updated and reduced capacity, 1100cc powerplant, auto journalists are already mulling over whether the new car will erase memories of the older version.

The move to fiddle with the engine comes in the wake of new excise norms for small cars under four meters in length and powered by petrol engines smaller than 1200cc. And Fiat expect the move will catapult demand for the car since its pricing will become more favourable.

Though exact figures are not available with us, the downgraded motor will put out less power than the current car's 72 bhp, but Fiat assures us that the torque of the revised mill at low speeds is better now - this has been one of our grouses with the older version. . The motor comes from Fiat's proven FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) family.

The Palio has also gone through a small but effective cosmetic job - a new pair of double barrelled headlamps have been set deep in a very modern looking nacelle. And the manner in which they wrap around into the fenders is also different from what our eyes have been used to till now. With a wider, black `anti-matter' grille sitting squarely between the lights, and Fiat's logo proudly dominates its centre. Other changes that are beyond the cosmetic include better cooling for the engine - the bumper comes with a unique slat in the centre, while the three-part chin of the car is all new as well. The use of black as an accent colour in the lower part of the nose is visually effective too - it helps to reduce apparent visual mass, while also making the package seem a lot more sporty and aggressive. The profile of the car remains the same, though new mirrors and door handles continue a fresh theme around the car. The rear of the car is new too, with a fresh, squared out tailgate and taller lamps making for a squarer, chunkier presence.

In an effort to keep the exercise cost-effective, Fiat unfortunately haven't revamped the interiors of the car. As a result, the new car will sport the same interiors as before and this is indeed a bit of a letdown. But as always, the car promises to be built tough, feature hardwearing plastic bits, comfortable seats and great ride quality. With an expected drop in price and possible increase in fuel economy, it sure looks like the Palio could be on a better footing for tomorrow.

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