First SUV from Fiat: Avventura @ Rs. 5.99 L

Italian car maker Fiat on Tuesday launched its first utility vehicle Avventura with a starting price of ₹ 5,99,064 for the entry-level petrol variant, going up to ₹ 8,17,065 for the topof-the-line diesel version.

The sub-4 metre compact utility vehicle is based on small car Punto, and has been developed by Fiat India's engineers.

The car has 1.4-litre petrol and 1.3litre diesel engine options, and competes directly with Ford's EcoSport. It has a high 205-mm ground clearance.

"It is not a cross model like the Cross Polo or Etios Cross, nor is it a true-blue off roader. It fits into the sweet spot somewhere between," said Nagesh Basavanhalli, president and managing director, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles India operations.

The Ford EcoSport has two petrol and one diesel engine variants, and costs ₹ 6.46-9.74 lakh.

Fiat has been trying to claw back into the Indian market after its failed partnerships with Premier Automobiles in the 90s and more recently, with Tata Motors. It expects the Avventura to expand its presence in the country. Fiat will launch its premium compact car, Abarth, by December before bringing in the full range of Jeep SUVs from Chrysler next year.

"We have strengthened our dealer network and after-sales service; products is the next," Basavanhalli said. "Avventura is based on the Punto but there are lots of things added to adapt it to Indian conditions."