Fiat's first 1-ton pickup will be a re-badged version of the new Tata TL Sprint which was revealed at the Bologna Motor Show earlier this month, informed automotive sources have recently revealed. Set to be built at their underused plant at Cordoba (currently building transmissions for PSA), Fiat and Tata have been discussing this new joint-project since the early summer.

The new Tata TL Sprint is an evolution of the TL 4x4 pick-up which was introduced in India during 2005, and was the first "lifestyle" pick-up from the nation's leading automaker. The strong-selling TL 4x4 is powered by a 91bhp 1948cc diesel engine. In turn, the TL 4x4 is based on Tata's hugely successful 207 DI pick-up which was commercialised in 2002.

The new Tata TL Sprint is an all-round improvement in the TL 4x4 and will start production by Tata Motors at their Pune facility in the Spring of 2007, powered by a 140 bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine. Tata's 2.2-litre unit which will power the TL Sprint, also powers their Safari SUV, and with very similar vehicle characteristics it achieves a maximum speed of 160 km/h, from 0 to 100 km/h in 14.9 seconds, and uses 7.9 litres of fuel per 100 km. Later next year Fiat will begin production of the TL Sprint at their Cordoba plant in Argentina, with the body-on-frame pick-up badged as both a Fiat and Tata for the South American markets. Fiat will use Cordoba as a springboard to bring the TL Sprint to Europe, with exports and its market arrival scheduled for mid 2008.
 

The South American-built version will though feature an upgraded version Tata's new 3.0-litre DICOR (Direct Injection Common Rail) diesel engine. Currently the DICOR engine turns out 115 bhp at 3,000 rpm and 290 Nm torque between 1,600 and 2,000 rpm; however this unit will be uprated to 157 bhp in the new application.

The Tata TL Sprint has been designed to firmly appeal to the rapidly growing "lifestyle" pick-up segment, and it aims to feature improved styling and new refinements, leisure use is as important to its targeted customer's as its inherent practicality. A large new front bumper has embedded round mist lights, while the under-engine aluminium protection plate wraps onto it. The large roll-over hoop assembly has been styled to blend into the overall design and it provides a very distinctive feature. The roll hoop also contains a high-level stop light, while a second one is built into the top of the hinged tailgate. Inside the TL Sprint, an upgraded interior includes improved new cabin materials and fabrics, and has features such as electrically-adjustable seats, air-conditioning, MP3 player and electric windows. Safety equipment includes ABS and dual airbags.