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The new Fiat Croma carries the signature of Giugiaro, and will be on sale in key European markets from June.
The Croma name was given to the upper middle class Fiat sedan, which was marketed from 1985 to 1994, and with over 450,000 examples it proved very successful. Due to the success of this classical notchback car, the new Fiat will continue the Croma legend when it receives its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next March.
Conceptually the new model differs fundamentally from its predecessor. The new Croma was sketched by Giugiaro as a crossover, and connects therefore the advantages of a classical notchback sedan with the advantage of an MPV. In simple terms: enormous available space, diverse interior variations, outstanding all-round visibility, increased seating positions, attractive, sporty and elegant design, optimal handling characteristics, temperamental engines and a high level of comfort all merge into the new Croma to provide an unparalleled and unique vehicle concept.
The new Croma will be presented at dealers in key European markets starting from June this year. In September, it will officially launch with one petrol engine (2.2 litres with 150 bhp) and will be followed with three Common Rail diesel engines offering the latest generation of multi-jet technology (1.9 JTD with 120 bhp, 1.9 JTD with 150 bhp and 2.4 JTD with 200 bhp).
As far as transmission, no desires are left unnoticed. The 2.2 litre petrol unit is fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox. With the 1.9 JTD 120 bhp version, a manual six-speed gearbox will be offered, and with the 150 bhp 1.9 JTD the customer will have the choice of either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission. From the beginning of 2006 a 1.8 litre petrol engine will complete the range.
The generous dimensions of the new Fiat flagship contribute to the car. It measures 4.75 metres in length, 1.77 metres in width and 1.6 metres in height. The wheelbase amounts to 2.83 metres. Hereby, a sumptuous and spacious cockpit is ensured. The boot capacity is approximately 500 litres with the seats all up.
Due to the interior’s large variability, this already excellent value can multiply when seats are folded. The front headroom (approximately 1011 mm), rear headroom (approximately 981 mm) and legroom for the rear passengers, is class-leading.
The seating height from ground level amounts to 614 mm in the front, and 661 mm in the rear. This architecture ensures that the rear passengers will enjoy a good view forwards, almost certainly increasing their comfort.
Three equipment levels will be on offer to the customer, and the completeness of the basic equipment and possible combinations of options will leave no desires open. The entry-level model will come standard with, amongst other things, seven airbags, keyless-go, electronic brake distribution (EBD), electronic stability programme (ESP), air-conditioning, radio and CD player, front and rear electric windows, central locking with remote control, separately hinged rear seats, height adjustable driver and passenger seats, and a cool box in the centre console.
Among the most interesting options, there is the navigation system, the park, rain and light sensors, xenon headlights, exceptional HI-FI systems and a complete selection of light alloy wheels, which are available right up to 18-inch. The new Fiat Croma will position itself in the D-segment. Fiat are highly confident with this excellent new model.
FIAT Croma
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