Fiat Avventura spotted on test again

Earlier this year, Fiat India wowed us all by showcasing the Avventura concept at the 2014 Auto Expo. Based on a standard Punto, this new crossover concept garnered a lot of attention from the visitors including hardcore Fiat enthusiasts.

Fiat is expected to launch the production-spec version of the Avventura later in the year. The brand is even actively testing it on public roads, as spy photos of prototype vehicles continue to hit the web. This time, the car has been snapped on test in heavy camouflage. But contrary to the earlier reports wherein the vehicle is seen with a spare-wheel free rear end, these latest spy photos reveal the tailgate mounted spare wheel.

The Avventura rides on the same platform as the Punto hatchback. Fiat has made extensive cosmetic upgrades to the hatchback to make it look rugged and distinctive. The spy photos show that Fiat has retained the front bashguard from the concept as well as the smoked headlamps. The production version, however, looks like it would have to do without projector headlamps and DRLs in favour of regular bulbs, though it might be offered as an optional extra.

Under the hood, the Avventura is expected to get three engine options - a 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel, a 1.4-litre T-Jet petrol and a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol. While the turbocharged 1.4-litre T-Jet engine produces 112bhp and 207Nm of torque, the smaller 1.2-litre unit produces 67bhp and 97Nm of torque. The MultiJet diesel, on the other hand, is good for 75bhp and 197Nm of torque.

Hatchback-based compact crossovers is the new up-and-coming segment in the Indian car market. After the Volkswagen Cross Polo and the Toyota Etios Cross, its Fiat’s turn to tap into this new fairly new space with the stylish new Avventura.