classic sedan shape. Giovanni Cenere, Fiat Auto's area manager for sales outside Europe, says Singapore is still a "mostly sedan market". But since the island is also a mature market, Singaporeans will "appreciate our cars because of their dimensions and the flexibility of their interiors".

"The direction is moving towards different kinds of cars like the hatchback and MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) because of the good interior space," he says, adding that the sedan is not the best use of space in terms of its dimensions. "So Fiat hatchbacks will become more attractive to the Singapore market."

Mr Cenere says this is especially true of the new Fiat Bravo, which was launched here less than two weeks ago by authorised distributor TTS Eurocars. The five-door hatchback has a roomy cabin, and a deep and wide boot. It is powered by either a normally aspirated or turbocharged version of a 1.4-litre engine.

"I think Singaporeans can appreciate our cars because of their dimensions and flexibility. For example, the interior of the Bravo has the potential to carry many things, so buyers find this different shape helpful," he says. Together with the Grande Punto and the recently unveiled 500 or Cinquecento, the Bravo represents the "new Fiat" - a new generation of Fiat cars which boasts technology and quality as well as environmentally friendly credentials.

The Italian carmaker is experiencing better global sales too. In 2006, it sold close to two million cars, says Mr Cenere. In the first half of 2007, volume
was 12 per cent higher compared with the same period a year ago, or about 1.2 million units.

Fiat's markets outside Europe are also looking promising. "China is growing, and we have big development plans in India too. Russia is another market we are looking at," he says. "But the best is Singapore."

TTS Eurocars registered the first new Fiat here in March 2005 after the brand's four-year absence in Singapore.

"The first full year was 2006 and we sold less than 500 cars. For 2007, we expect more than 800 cars," says Mr Cenere.

He says Singapore buyers of Fiat cars usually look for style, while Europeans are more conscious of the actual car as a means of transportation. "That is the main difference. And that helps because one of the most important areas for us is style and design. After all, Italy is often associated with style."

But because new Fiat models have also embraced safety and green technology, he believes this will also help sales. "Buyers are more conscious of environmental issues because of climate change. This is an important element of our cars, together with the safety aspect," says Mr Cenere, referring to the maximum five-star crash safety rating for Fiat models.