Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the Italian-American car manufacturer, bid farewell to the Indian market in early 2019 due to poor sales, ageing products, and the implementation of BS6 emission standards. The company couldn’t bear the expenses of making its engines BS6-compliant, leading to its exit from India. However, there’s exciting news for enthusiasts who want Fiat back in India.
According to an online media publication, Stellantis, the parent company of FCA, is considering bringing back the Fiat brand to India. Additionally, they are also contemplating introducing Alfa Romeo, the luxury brand known for its sportscars, as it aims to cater to the diverse preferences of Indian customers. Alfa Romeo has been owned by FCA since 2017. Some of the Alfa Romeo models sold worldwide include Tonale Hybrid, Tonale Plug-in hybrid Q4, Stelvio, Giulia Quadrifoglio, Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Giulia along with special series/limited editions of its vehicles.
Currently, Stellantis is actively supporting existing Fiat customers in India. Apart from this, the carmaker is focusing on establishing the Jeep and Citroen brands in the Indian market. They also see a growing opportunity in the midsize SUV segment, which includes popular models like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Toyota Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun. Citroen’s C3 Aircross is their attempt to tap into the growing midsize SUV market, and it is scheduled to go on sale in September.
Interestingly, Fiat has been outselling other Stellantis brands globally in the first half of the current calendar year, thanks to the success of the electric Fiat 500. The automaker plans to capitalize on this global success and carefully evaluate how to reintroduce Fiat in the evolving Indian market. As auto enthusiasts, we hope that models like the Fiat Abarth 595 (the sporty four-seater hatchback), Fiat Punto Abarth, Fiat Siena, Fiat Palio, and Fiat Linea could make a comeback in India.
