Showing posts with label Fuel Economy. Seattle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fuel Economy. Seattle. Show all posts

Monday, December 26, 2011

Sexy 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth Ad Gets The Pop-Up Video Treatment


2012 Fiat 500 'Seduction' commercial 

By now, you've probably seen the sexy new "Seduction" commercial for the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth -- the one where a humdrum cubicle clone has a close encounter with an Italian supermodel, only to discover that she is, in fact, a car. Now, VH1 has given that clip the pop-up video treatment.
Among the fun facts we learn as the ad rolls by:
* The spot was directed by Luca Maroni, whose name might not mean much in the film world, but he's a fairly big deal where commercials are concerned.
* The office boy is Matthew Rocheleau, who's just getting his feet wet in Hollywood.
* The supermodel is, as you might imagine, a real supermodel: Catrinel Menghia. (Though we have to visit Wikipedia to learn that Ms. Menghia is Romanian by birth, not Italian. Bless you, Wikipedia.)
* Menghia is married to a former Italian soccer champ, which might explain why her accent is pretty spot-on. (Sadly, news reports indicate that her marriage to Massimo Brambati may be coming to an end.)
What the video doesn't provide is a translation of Menghia's spiel, which, for those who care, goes something like: "What are you looking at? Hey, what are you looking at? Are you undressing me with your eyes? Poor guy. You just can’t help it, can you? Is your heart racing? Is your head spinning? Do you feel lost thinking that I could be yours forever?
But hey, why should we give it all away when you could be wasting a small chunk of your Friday watching this clip for yourself? 

Friday, December 23, 2011

FIAT 500 Recieves Top Safety Pick by IIHS

The 2012 Fiat 500 has earned Top Safety Pick status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), signifying that it’s scored a rating of “good” (the agency’s highest) in frontal offset and side impact crash testing, as well as in roof strength testing.

2012 Fiat 500 IIHS crash testing

Top Safety Pick models must also have sufficient head and neck protection in rear-impact crashes, and must be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC). Prior to the 2011 model year, electronic stability control (which can minimize the chance of a rollover accident) wasn't mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but all 2012 and later model year cars must be equipped with ESC.

Only 2012 Fiat 500 models built after July of 2011 are Top Safety Pick rated, as earlier models used a different driver’s seat structure. This assembly was changed beginning with August 2011 production to increase occupant safety in both frontal and rear crashes.

The 2012 Fiat 500 joins the 2011 and 2012 Ford Fiesta as the only minicars earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation. While you can’t rewrite the laws of physics (and force still equals mass times acceleration), the award is proof that even small and fuel efficient cars can be safe

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Limited Edition Fiat




2012 Fiat 500 Nation Limited Edition wallpaper image



The Fiat line-up that’s headed to the 2011 Bologna Motor Show will also include a special edition 500 model that has been designed to commemorate the car’s introduction to the US market.
The special edition Fiat 500 model is called the "Nation Limited Edition" and it will come in hard-top and cabrio trims. As far as the former is concerned, Fiat dressed it up in an "America Blue" exterior paint finish and it comes with a bevy of unique trims, including a "Stars & Stripes" package on the sides and on the mirror casings, and a new set of 16" alloy wheels.
Meanwhile, the 500C version will come in a "Tri-Coat White" exterior paint finish and will also feature the same "Stars & Stripes" package on the sides and the mirror casings, as well as a new set of 16" alloy wheels. A different wrinkle on the 500C is the red soft-top roof, further enhancing the color scheme of the car as a celebration of our beloved land.
Powertrain figures for both the 500 and 500C remains the same - a 1.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder engine with state-of-the-art MultiAir technology that delivers 101 horsepower and 98 lb/ft of torque - although customers who opt for the 500C will have to shell out more money to be able to buy one.
Both models will be limited to 500 units apiece with the hard-top version coming with a price tag of €14,500, which is about $19,500 based on current exchange rates. As for the 500C, that one will cost you €18,000, which when converted, hits $24,200.

The Fiat line-up that’s headed to the 2011 Bologna Motor Show will also include a special edition 500 model that has been designed to commemorate the car’s introduction to the US market.
The special edition Fiat 500 model is called the "Nation Limited Edition" and it will come in hard-top and cabrio trims. As far as the former is concerned, Fiat dressed it up in an "America Blue" exterior paint finish and it comes with a bevy of unique trims, including a "Stars & Stripes" package on the sides and on the mirror casings, and a new set of 16" alloy wheels.
Meanwhile, the 500C version will come in a "Tri-Coat White" exterior paint finish and will also feature the same "Stars & Stripes" package on the sides and the mirror casings, as well as a new set of 16" alloy wheels. A different wrinkle on the 500C is the red soft-top roof, further enhancing the color scheme of the car as a celebration of our beloved land.
Powertrain figures for both the 500 and 500C remains the same - a 1.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder engine with state-of-the-art MultiAir technology that delivers 101 horsepower and 98 lb/ft of torque - although customers who opt for the 500C will have to shell out more money to be able to buy one.
Both models will be limited to 500 units apiece with the hard-top version coming with a price tag of €14,500, which is about $19,500 based on current exchange rates. As for the 500C, that one will cost you €18,000, which when converted, hits $24,200.

Monday, November 7, 2011

FIAT of Tacoma's preview of the Abarth

Click Here to view the FIAT USA Abarth site. Then give FIAT of Tacoma a call to reserve your FIAT 500 Abarth. The phone number for FIAT of Tacoma is 253.830.5700.

Friday, September 9, 2011

Fiat will be breaking the tradition mold of car advertising and bringing their cars directly to customers at Tacoma Mall

Fiat will be breaking the tradition mold of car advertising and bringing their cars directly to customers at local shopping malls across the United States. Potential customers will be able to see the 2012 Fiat 500 and 500 Cabrio up close and personally.

Fiat will visit 20 different shopping malls in a matter of approximately three months time. The lucky shoppers who are present while Fiat is in their local malls, will be able to sit behind the wheels of the cars and experience first-hand, the “simple design, beautiful craftsmanship and timeless value of the new Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) models”.
Fiat is an acronym for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino. Fiat, founded in 1899. It is an Italian automobile manufacturer and engine manufacturer, and a financial and industrial group based in Turin in the Piedmont region.
Fiat has also manufactured railroad vehicles, tanks and aircraft as well. As of 2009, Fiat is the world's ninth largest carmaker as well as Italy's largest carmaker. Fiat cars are built around the world and Brazil is where they seem to sell the best.
In a press release, Laura Soave, the Head of Fiat Brand North America made this statement: "Our new Fiat 500 and 500 Cabrio deliver simply more – more Italian-by-design styling, more value and more efficiency, all intelligently tailored for our American customers. We want people across the country to personally experience the exceptional attributes of the Fiat 500 so they know that there is a new alternative within the small-car segment."
Fiat will be on its tour to shopping malls around the United States from September through November. At all exhibitions, product specialists will be there to talk with consumers about the Fiat 500 and answer any questions potential buyers may have. All test drives will take place during mall hours, and test-drive participants will each receive a great incentive of a $15 mall gift card.
The 2012 Fiat 500 has been described in the press release as having “beautiful Italian styling, timeless functionality, fuel efficiency and innovative technology – the same attributes that made the original version an icon – the 2012 Fiat 500 is relevant for an entirely new generation of drivers.”
The 2012 Fiat 500 offers great safety features, great fuel efficiency in a 1.4 liter MultiAir® engine with eco:Drive™, extremely high quality and advanced technology. It has a roomy interior that fits four, Navigation with BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication technology, seven standard air bags and more. Furthermore, the car offers “Fiat forward care™, which is a standard four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, four years of unlimited roadside assistance and a three-year/36,000-mile maintenance program that includes wear-and-tear items.
The locations and dates of the tour will be starting tomorrow and will be as follows: Tacoma Mall, Tacoma, WA (Sat., Sept. 10 – Sun., Sept. 11), Orland Square, Orland Park, IL (Sat., Sept. 10 – Sun., Sept. 11), Washington Square Mall, Portland, OR (Sat., Sept. 17 – Sun., Sept. 18), Briarwood Mall, Ann Arbor, MI (Sat., Sept. 17 – Sun., Sept. 18), South Shore Plaza, Braintree, MA (Sat., Sept. 24 – Sun., Sept. 25), Stonebridge Mall, Pleasanton, CA (Sat., Sept. 24 – Sun., Sept. 25), Brea Mall, Brea, CA (Sat., Oct. 1 – Sun., Oct. 2), Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City, NY (Sat., Oct. 1 – Sun., Oct. 2), Potomac Mills, Woodbridge, VA (Sat., Oct. 8 – Sun., Oct. 9), Ontario Mills Mall, Ontario, CA (Sat., Oct. 8 – Sun., Oct. 9), Mall of Georgia, Buford, GA (Sat., Oct. 15 – Sun., Oct. 16), South Tower Center, Sandy, UT (Sat., Oct. 15 – Sun., Oct. 16), Seminole Town Center, Sanford FL (Sat., Oct. 22 – Sun., Oct. 23), Tower Center at Aurora, Aurora CO (Sat., Oct. 22 – Sun., Oct. 23), Town Center at Boca Raton, Boca Raton, FL (Sat., Oct. 29 – Sun. Oct. 30), North East Mall, Hurst, TX (Sat., Oct. 29 – Sun., Oct. 30), Barton Creek Square, Austin, TX (Sat., Nov. 5 – Sun., Nov. 6), Dadeland Mall, Miami, FL (Sat., Nov. 5 – Sun., Nov. 6), The Florida Mall, Orlando, FL (Sat., Nov. 12 – Sun., Nov. 13), and Katy Mills, Katy TX (Sat., Nov. 12 – Sun. Nov. 13).

Monday, September 5, 2011

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept: America Bound?

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept.Jerry Garrett for The New York Times Alfa Romeo 4C Concept.
GENEVA — Could the 4C be the vehicle that finally brings Alfa Romeo back into the United States market? Alfa says, “Yes.”
At the introduction of the 4C concept here on Tuesday, Harald J. Wester, the Italian marque’s chief executive, said the eventual production vehicle was being designed to be sold in markets worldwide, “including the United States.”
The Italian brand has been seemingly plotting a way back into the North American market since it left in the early ’90s, with the collapse of its sales and dealer network, but it has lacked the product punch to do so. When Fiat Group, Alfa’s parent, increased its ownership stake in Chrysler, a preliminary plan was sketched out — and then put on hold — to bring the Alfa Romeo MiTo subcompact to Chrysler dealerships.
Alfa Romeo did offer its 8C Competizione sports car for sale in the United States, but too few American enthusiasts expressed interest, perhaps because the price, at $250,000 and up, was too dear. Regardless, the instant classic sold out its 2007-8 production run, primarily by customers in other markets.
Mr. Wester said the 4C, a handsomely executed sports coupe, would sell for about 45,000 euros, or roughly $62,000, in Europe. It will go into production in late 2012. A roadster version is also planned.

2012 Fiat 500 U.S. Auto Shows

Nearly 30 years after Fiat sold its last car in the U.S., the 2012 Fiat 500 is officially debut at the Auto Show in Los Angeles. Cute as a button, or at least a New Beetle or the Mini Cooper-500 will be powered by a 101-hp, 1.4-liter four-cylinders of 97 lb-ft of torque when it goes on sale in January. The small four-cylinder engine is mounted in Dundee, Michigan, and uses variable valve timing and lift for best of 29 mpg city and 37 highway when equipped with manual transmission. A multinational effort, the 500 is being assembled in Toluca, Mexico, the plant used to assemble all of Chrysler PT Cruisers.
Our 500 is not exactly the same as the car is sold in Europe. Adopt more stringent crash regulations in the U.S., the 500 has a new structure and a slightly different design rear torsion beam rear suspension. Other differences between American and European versions are mostly related to comfort seats wider and flatter, more soundproofing materials, and the addition of armrests for the driver. Mechanically, a conventional automatic transmission, six-speed is available. Fiat chassis adjustment and power steering is a little different way, with the latter is slightly faster than the European direction.
Three output levels are available. The key is called Pop, and you start with $ 16,000. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, 15-inch steel wheels, stability and traction control, ABS brakes, seven airbags, electric windows and closing, and tire repair kit. For those who require more luxury in their small Italian cars and who does not?-Fiat offers $ 20,000 trim level Lounge, which adds a fixed glass roof, 15 inch alloy wheels, satellite radio, fog lights, audio system Bose, leather seats and steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth and USB port for MP3 player integration.
The version we are most likely to disembark our book for the model of $ 18,000. Fiat called sport, but it’s nothing more powerful than the other 500 models, the nickname has set the firmer suspension. In addition, Sports upgraded from Pop aluminum wheels with 16-inch, red brake calipers, unique front and rear fascia, a Bose audio system and Bluetooth. Choice between different levels of trim includes heated seats, a removable TomTom navigation system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power sunroof $ 850 and $ 1,000 for automatic transmission
Customizing buyers 500s is their choice of 14 colors (including four retro colors that were available for the original 500), four interior colors and customizing the program, which allows them to choose between different graphic in the body. It clear that Fiat is the next mini game plan, which allows buyers to express their personality, putting stripes or other embellishments for their cars.
The 500 will be joined by the 500C convertible (actually a giant fabric ceiling) in the summer of 2011. Those who seek power over perhaps wait until the fall of 2011, when the 500 Abarth goes on sale. Fiat has not yet announced how much power and even the engine is in the market for U.S. Abarth bell, but expect around 170 horsepower from a 1.4-liter turbocharged version of the standard four-cylinder engine of car. An electric version of the 500 reaches the end of 2012, Fiat and promises to produce 5,400 of them in the first full year of production. Considering the interest in an unknown microcar an Italian brand with a poor reputation among consumers who have heard, this number could be better applied as a sales target for the first year Decent all 500s. But since this car looks nice options, customization and future version Abarth, Fiat USA in the future is certainly brighter than it was 30 years ago.

FIAT of Tacoma...Life is Best When Driven!!

------------------------------Life is best when driven-------------------------------

There are people who simply live their lives. And there are people who take charge of their lives and llive it so passionately that they are in love with it. Love that shines through in every moment and everything they do - big or small. It is not just cursory appreciation but unadulterated passion. It is this ability to celebrate the smallest of things with infectious excitement that arises from a certain Italian way of life. It is this attitude that is the core of the FIAT brand, its employees, the vehicles they create and the people who rejoice in their ownership - as individuals as well as a proud collective. People who love FIAT cars not just for their simple, beutiful, iconic design. But for their attitude to live big just like they do.

This is not a car. This is a vehicle of passion. This is a medium for people who don't just live their lives. This is a FIAT 500, an extension of a person's genuine feelings, a canvas that brings expressive people together. And encourages them to display emotions that are as personal as they are for everyone.

Some cars go down in history for their technological or stylistic innovations. Others deserve to be remembered sentimentally for the role they've played in the daily life of an entire generation or country. But few succeed in combining the two - technology and sentiment - and leave an eternal mark.

Now in over 80 countries, the FIAT 500 has evolved into a beloved global icon, winning the hearts of passionate drivers, motor journalists and judges alike. Most recently winning 60 international awards, including being named 2008 European Car of the Year and 2009 World Car Design of the Year. Additionally, FIAT MultiAir Technology was recognized as the "Single Most Innovative Engine Technology" of 2010 by the International Engine of the Year Awards panel. Now that's love.

At FIAT of Tacoma we have strong and committed specialists with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs, and look forward to the opportunity to introduce you to the FIAT brand!

We take pride in serving the Northwest. Including Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia , Auburn , Bellevue, Kirkland, Kent, Vancouver, Yakima, Spokane, Tri Cities, Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Lakewood, Port Orchard, Issaquah, Kirkland, Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, Helena, Bozeman, Great Falls, Billings, and Missoula.

About FIAT of Tacoma - a Tacoma New & Used FIAT Dealership

FIAT of Tacoma is proud to serve Tacoma with quality FIAT vehicles. With models like the 500, 500 Lounge, 500 Sport, 500 Pop and 500C, we have something for every taste and need. Come visit us at 3740 South Tacoma Way to see our vehicles and take one for a test drive.

If you're looking for a used car in Tacoma, we can assist you there as well. Visit our inventory page to see our large collection of pre-owned vehicles.

FIAT of Tacoma is not just your Tacoma FIAT dealership, we also provide a full line of services dedicated to our Washington customers. From Fiat car repairs performed by expert mechanics, to OEM FIAT auto parts, to car loans, FIAT of Tacoma is the smart choice for your automotive needs.

Come in and say hi! We're located at 3740 South Tacoma Way or you can give us a call.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Abarth Will Debut at L.A. Auto Show

Fiat USA Tweets That U.S.-Spec 2013 500 Abarth Will Debut at L.A. Auto Show

July 25, 2011 at 2:42pm by Alexander Stoklosa
2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
Fiat will unveil the U.S.-market 500 Abarth at this year’s Los Angeles auto show in November, the Italian automaker announced today on Twitter. We don’t expect the American 500 Abarth to differ greatly from its European counterpart, which has been on sale for a few years now across the pond. The big question is whether we’ll get the 135-hp 500 Abarth or the 170-hp Abarth Essesse (pronounced essay-essay, as in SS for supersport.) Otherwise, our Abarth will differ from the Euro car in boasting more sound insulation and a U.S.-specific crash structure. We expect that the zippiest of the 500 family to go on sale sometime in 2012 as a 2013 model.

Saturday, September 3, 2011

FIAT of Tacoma's Eco:Drive and TwinAir

Fiat – eco:drive

Although Fiat does not currently have a branded green version of their models, they do have a commitment to producing low emission vehicles and reducing fuel consumption, and have the lowest overall average CO2 emissions in Europe.
One significant achievement have been the development of eco:drive software developed with Microsoft. Designed as an easy to use computer application to improve driving efficiency, a USB stick is plugged into your Fiat, which gathers information as you drive. Data regarding vehicle efficiency and drive style is recorded, and by plugging the USB device into a computer, a range of statistics, suggested driving improvements and an overall eco score are given. Savings of up to 15% can be achieved.

Fiat – TwinAir

While Fiat is not particularly involved with rolling out alternatively powered vehicles, they produce excellent fuel efficient conventional engines. The latest, the TwinAir, is an 875cc 2 cylinder engine that Fiat developed initially for the Fiat 500 – it is the cleanest production petrol engine in the world emitting just 95gCO2/km. Start-stop technology and gear shift indication are also provided.
The real achievement is that the TwinAir engine does not sacrifice power for efficiency. It is capable of acceleration to 62mph in 11 seconds and has a top speed of 108mph. Compared with Fiat's best-selling 1.2-litre petrol engine in the Fiat 500; the TwinAir delivers 23% more power yet combines this with a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.

FIAT's at Tacoma are Recognized on the Top 10 Green Car List of 2011...

Kelley Blue Book named their Top 10 Green Cars of 2011 and the 2012 Fiat 500 made the list. Kbb.com, the leading provider of new and used car information, annually announces this list present a variety of the best fuel-efficient vehicles worthy for buyers’ consideration – like the 2012 Fiat 500!

2012 FIATDesigned for the individual who wants Italian style, efficiency and personalization options, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Pop includes a manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels with chrome-accented wheel covers and all-season tires, seven standard air bags, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input, power windows, power door locks, power heated mirrors, speed control and reconfigurable Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and tire-pressure monitoring display (TPM).

The editors considered which ‘green’ vehicles were the best of the best at the best price. To be considered for the Top 10 Green Car of 2011 list, each vehicle was required to offer fuel economy and CO2 emissions superior to the bulk of vehicle in its class, and at the same time provide all the safety, creature comforts and driving enjoyment that would make it pleasant to own.

“Fiat is returning to the U.S. after a 27-year absence, and we’re confident this time will be a better experience for all involved. The Fiat 500 offers a new combination of European heritage, sub-compact practicality and is extremely charming..

”The Fiat 500 comes in three different styles including the Sport, Loung and Pop.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

The 2012 FIAT 500 has arrived in Tacoma

FIAT of Tacoma, a Seattle area FIAT dealer, would like to announce that the 2012 FIAT 500 has arrived at our Studio and is available to test drive and pre-order. It has been over thirty years since FIAT has been sold in the United States and FIAT of Tacoma is exciteded to offer such a great driving machine to its customers. With three available trims, the 2012 FIAT 500 will impress.

FIAT of Tacoma is part of the Universal Auto Group, which has a proven track record of success. Dealerships in the Universal Auto Group have a reputation for providing courteous and honest service and the FIAT of Tacoma Studio is no different.

Providing outstanding service and top-notch vehicles, FIAT of Tacoma proudly serves all of the Puget Sound, including Seattle, Kirkland, Bellevue, Vancouver and more FIAT 500 owners and shoppers. Soon to be open seven days a week, the leading FIAT of Tacoma Studio is conveniently located at 3740 South Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409.

For more information about the stylish 2012 FIAT 500 visit our website http://www.fiatusaoftacoma.com/index.htm or call 800-NEW-FIAT today.