Itò€™s been a long time...
Itò€™s been a long time in the making, but finally Arashò€™s AF-10 has arrived. First unveiled at the British Motor Show back in 2006, the original prototype has had to overcome its share of problems as well as numerous revisions to get where it is today but that is all in the past now.
The exclusive information...
The exclusive information from our Italian sources is that the next hatchback will bear the badge, previously seen on three-door models, as Fiat believes it has a strong image with buyers. Set to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September, the newcomer will go on sale in the UK in five-door form in early 2007, with a three-door, also called Bravo, to follow.
Penned by ex-Ferrari design director Frank Stephenson, now Fiat"s chief designer, the stylish Bravo features a prominent Fiat grille, framed by a pronounced nose and angled headlamps.
Circular spotlights integrated into a sporty lower bumper complete the front end. As with Seat"s Leon, Fiat hopes that the confident look will set the Bravo apart from its less radically styled Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf rivals.
Sharing the next-generation Alfa Romeo 149"s platform, the Bravo will have a longer wheelbase than the Stilo, providing more cabin and boot space.
Power options include two new units, as revealed in Issue 902 - a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol and a 1.6-litre oil-burner - as well as Fiat"s existing 1.9-litre Multijet turbodiesels. Prices will start from about ÷£12,500.