Kathmandu

After garnering huge success in the international market, Fiat is all set to debut its much awaited CUV (contemporary urban vehicle) — Avventura in the Nepali market. Life Automobiles, authorised distributor of Fiat, is planning to officially launch the CUV by the first week of August in the domestic market.

However, the company has already sold around two CUVs in the valley.

The CUV comes in two engine variants in both petrol and diesel. “Earlier, we were planning to launch the CUV by the end of April, but due to the earthquake we had to postpone its launch,” said Suraj Manandhar, Chief General Manager of Life Automobiles, adding that they have already supplied some 24 units of the CUV in the Nepali market. “If initial customers’ enquiries are something to go with, we are optimistic with this model as we have been receiving an overwhelming number of enquiries regarding the four-wheeler,” he said, adding that the blend of power, performance and price are the unique selling proposition of the CUV.

According to him, the price of the CUV ranges from Rs 2.995 million to Rs 4.095 million and will compete with Ford EcoSport and Hyundai i20 Active. Equipped with 1.4-L FIRE petrol engine, the all-new Avventura delivers a maximum power of 89 bhp at 6000 rpm and offers a maximum torque of 115 Nm at 4500 rpm. Similarly, the 1.3-L MultiJet diesel engine delivers a maximum power of 92 bhp at 4000 rpm and peak torque of 209 Nm at 2000 Nm. Both petrol and diesel variants are mated to five-speed manual transmission. The company claims that the petrol variant provides a mileage of 14.4 kmpl while the diesel variant offers 20.5 kmpl. The CUV offers an impressive ground clearance of 205mm.

The stylish and sporty exterior of the CUV lends it the adventurous looks. The Fiat Avventura acquires a curvilinear form accompanied by functional roof rail and rear-mounted spare wheel, which altogether gives it the rugged look loaded with adventure. The 16-inch alloy wheels and inbuilt side body cladding add to the sporty looks of the CUV and the powerful and stylish front and rear fog lamps ensure a clear view of the road in any weather conditions.

When it comes to the interiors, the Avventura offers comfort to match adventure. With well thought-out ambient lighting, the dashboard stands out as a style statement — its dual-tone, soft-touch and clever craftsmanship, all revv up the envy. The new Avventura keeps you informed about every trail.

High-terrain gauges like the horizontal and vertical inclinometre and compass make sure you stay in control on all kinds of terrain. The spacious CUV acquires a strategically placed rear AC vents to ensure uniform cooling. The safety features in Avventura is not an exception.

The CUV comes with airbags and early crash sensors that detect a crash, then activate the airbags and restraints at the exact moment and not an instant later. Moreover, the solid back seats with metal back keep passengers snug in the seat. In case of a crash, they ensure passengers stay safe.