The Fiat Croma has arrived in South America for the first time as the Giorgetto Giugiaro-design 'station wagon' is being presented at the 24th Salão Internacional do Automóvel, in São Paolo, Brazil this week. Somewhat overshadowed by the unveiling of the dramatically-styled 'off road' Fiat FCC Adventure concept showcar its presence at South America's biggest bi-annual motor show is none the less highly significant.

During the official Fiat Automòveis press conference the Croma was unveiled to the South American media and brand Commercial Director Lélio Ramos suggested to journalists that the model could be sold in Brazil in the near future. However did not inform any date set for Croma to be launched onto the national market. Instead Fiat are treating the show as an ideal venue to gauge public reaction to the car, in effect a giant surgery. "We will analyse the reaction of the public at the show," added Ramos. Fiat Automòveis have been concerned that this segment of car will be able to attract sufficient market interest. It is believed however that plans to bring the model to the Brazilian market are in fact now well advanced and it could make its debut early next year.

The version of the Croma on display in São Paulo is a fully specified version fitted with the 147 bhp 2.2-litre 16v petrol engine (diesels are not permitted to be fitted to passenger cars in Brazil). This is coupled up to a 6-speed manual gearbox, and it sits on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 215/50 profile tyres.