17.01.2004 FIAT ROLL OUT LIMITED EDITION MODELS AT THE BRUSSELS MOTOR SHOW

Fiat's large stand in Brussels is host to several limited edition models making their first public appearances at the long running Belgian Motor Show.

To celebrate a sporting sponsorship tie-up with clothing manufacturer Sergio Tacchini, Fiat have introduced editions of the 3-door Punto and Stilo as well as the Barchetta sports coupe.

Each of the models carry the Sergio Tacchini logo outwardly on the flanks and inside on the centre console. To highlight the edition, the models boast attractive two-tone grey leather interiors and gearlever covers, are fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels, and have various interior trim parts finished in the higher specification silver colour scheme.

The Punto Sergio Tacchini receives an outward makeover which sees the Sporting HGT's front and rear bumpers, and tailgate roofline spoiler included in the package.

The section of the stand devoted to these models is emblazoned with a large Sergio Tacchini logo. Finally, a glass-fronted display shows the Sergio Tacchini clothing and accessory range, divided into three sections, individually devoted to Golf, Tennis and Sailing products.

A second limited edition model here is the Fiat Punto 'Junior Team' which celebrates the Punto's success in last year's Belgian Rally Championship. The title-winning Fiat Punto Abarth Super 1600 rally car is situated in a prominent position, at the leading corner of the stand.

This is the R-Tec run, Fiat backed 'Junior Team' Punto which last year, in the hands of youngsters Larry Cols and Filip Godde, cruised to the Belgian Super 1600 title, and on the way, pulled out a series of giant killing acts, fending off much more powerful WRC rally cars as well as Super 1600 rivals, including the Citroen Saxo and Renault Clio RS. One of the highlights of their season was first in the Super 1600 category and an amazing third overall on the prestigious Tour of Flanders.

To celebrate these successes, Fiat Belgium have offered a 'Junior Team' version of the road-going Punto. To create a genuine and stylish young person's 'Junior' car they have taken the 1.2-litre 8v model, added the Sporting HGT's front and rear bumpers, 15-in alloy wheels and tailgate roofline spoiler. The car has positioned on the B-pillar, the title-winning Junior Team's logo. In Brussels, the colour-coded metallic red model lines up behind the rally car from which it draws inspiration.

A wall mounted giant TV screen, complemented by two smaller screens at the forefront of the stand, play a fast moving mixture of video footage. The Junior Team's victorious rally season is recalled, interspersed with clips highlighting Sergio Tacchini's sporting pedigree, featuring Golf, Tennis and Sailing action.