Linea makes heads turn

If ever the advertising campaign of a product foretold the consumer response to it, the Fiat Linea is a good example.

With a tagline of 'admiration guaranteed', the car's looks made a big splash, and the first few cars on road drew stares from all quarters.

Archana Buddhiraja, who works in an advertising firm in Delhi, was among the early buyers"There were many options and maybe some (cars were) better technically. But if people do not stop and look at your brand new car then what good is it to spend so much money on it?" she says.

"The car is easy to drive, comes with features like 'blue and me' technology that allows me to connect my phone via bluetooth."

The Linea is the first of Fiat's two cars (the second being the Punto) whose performance will decide the firm's future in India — and it seems it is on a revival track.

"The Fiat Linea has been positioned as a car of style and elegance. Since its launch, in January last year, consumer response for the car has been very positive and upto Fiat's expectations," says Rajeev Kapoor, CEO, Fiat India. "The Fiat Linea has achieved impressive sales numbers and continues to be a leading player in the sedan segment."

The car is renowned for its strong build, superior handling and fuel efficiency. But in India, its after-sale service is not up to the mark especially when compared with the likes of Maurti Suzuki and Honda.

What's great about the car: Looks, looks and looks

What's not: Suspect resale value, inefficient AC.