Westar launches all-new Fiat Tipo in Nigeria despite economic downturn

Weststar Associates Limited, authorised dealer of Fiat vehicles in Nigeria, dares the shrinking automotive market in Nigeria to unveil its all-new Fiat Tipo, a model that promises plenty for money.

The dealer had promised to be aggressive in its strategy with the introduction of new brands that would meet customers’ needs and strengthen its share across market segments.

The new Tipo, which marks the return of the brand to Nigeria, debuted with latest-generation audio systems, including a handsfree Bluetooth interface, audio streaming, text reader and voice recognition, AUX and USB ports with iPod integration, controls on the steering wheel, an optional rear parking camera and the new TomTom 3D built-in navigation system on all variants.

Managing Director, Weststar Associates Limited, Mirko Plath, said the return of the brand was crucial to meet customer’s demand. Acknowledging the current economic shortfall in the country, Plath was optimistic that the new vehicle would take on the likes of Toyota Corolla, particularly with its features and price differences, adding that the company has concluded plans to assemble the Italian brand in the country.

According to him, the organisation is motivated to offer best brands that will meet the distinct needs of Nigerians. The Brand’s General Manager, Stavros Diamantidis, noted that the vehicle, which may sell between N8-10 million or less depending on variant or individual specifications, boasts of leading innovations and features that offer more for less.

He added that the generous array of safety devices, comfort and practicality of the car meet customer requirements in the Nigerian market. With a high and medium spec, Tipo comes with comfort and safety features, including rear parking sensors, front fog lights, automatic climate control, cruise control, front armrest and driver’s seat with optional lumbar adjustment.

Being targeted as a family type car, the Fiat Tipo also features modern active and passive safety devices such as standard driver- and front passenger airbags (with side and curtain airbags as an option) along with electronic stability control (ESC).

The ESC system includes a number of devices including Panic Brake Assist (PBA), which intervenes in case of emergency braking by increasing the braking force; ABS; traction control (TCS), which detects wheel slip under acceleration and intervenes by reducing engine torque; and Hill Start Assist, which maintains brake pressure for approximately two seconds after the driver releases the pedal.