These are the first pictures of Fiats all new C-Segment competitor, which will be called Bravo and not Stilo or Grande Stilo as previously thought. Bravo was the name of Stilo predecessor which was penned by BMW Design Chief, Chris Bangle. The stylish Bravo will take on the likes of VW Golf and Ford Focus. Apart from it's Grande Punto derived looks, the Bravo will host new series of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, including the 1.4 petrol Turbo which will be offered in two versions producing about 120 and 160 Hp. Practically, it's the same engine that is fitted on the Opel Meriva OPC 1.4T that produces 180 Hp as GM and Fiat might have broken up their engagement, but not their ties.
Codenamed Project 198, the Stilo substitute will be produced in partnership with the Austrian contractor Magna Steyr. This is a first for the Italian automaker, as Fiat has never hired a non-Italian contractor to develop a new model. According to Fiat Group CEO, Sergio Marchionne, this choice was taken to reduce the development times. Although the Fiat Bravo will hit European showrooms in early 2007, it is not sure yet if the car will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September.
Technorati Tags: Fiat+Bravo, Stilo, Magna+Steyr, scoop, auto+news, automobile, autos, vehicles, automotive, cars, pictures, images