New 2014 Fiat Linea Review [1.3 Multijet diesel / 1.4 T-Jet Petrol]: Linear Progression

Interior and features

Quite a few changes have been made to the Linea’s interior to uplift the quality and features perception. The new interior is done in two-tone beige-black with a center control featuring piano black plastic. The brushed aluminium retro look of the center console has been shown the door in favor of a more contemporary design. The beige elements of the black-beige interior comprise of a new soft-touch material.

The instrument console while still the same unit functionally, has been redesigned with new black dials and modern looking markings, replacing the classic markings on the old version. Like the previous version, the MID offers useful information including average consumption and distance to dry, which is a very important feature for any car these days.

A new introduction to the cabin is the mood lighting, with a warm orange glow illuminating the area where the black and beige colors meet on the passenger side of the dashboard. The effect lifts the interior ambience significantly in dark.

The center console has been changed as well, and is now comprised of piano black plastic with a redesigned audio unit. Functionally, the audio unit remains the same as the previous version though. There’s also a small compartment on top of the center console with a pop-open lid.

There is a small central armrest as well, with a very small cubbyhole beneath. We struggled to put even our cellphone inside, and would be surprised if it could be used for anything but coins and toll tickets. There are no big cup-holders between the seats, both front and rear doors have reasonably sized map pockets though which can hold water bottles.

Back benchers get map pockets and bottle holders in their door pockets along with pockets in the front seat backrest. Backseat offers adequate legroom, though it’s not class leading. The seats in our top-of-the-line test car (Emotion variant) were covered in high quality, perforated leather. Rear sun blind is another new inclusion in the top of the line Emotion variant.

Linea remains a well equipped car and features like auto headlamps and wipers, along with the voice command driven Blue & Me system gives it some extra brownie points. Audio System comprises CD/Aux-in/USB/Bluetooth compatibility as well as AM/Fm radio. Sound quality is not all that great though, and raising the volume beyond a point leads to distortion in output.

As a welcome introduction, the Linea now boasts Cruise Control. Though seldom used in Indian traffic conditions, the system most definitely adds to the appeal of a car. Other features worth a mention include a fire prevention system, reverse parking sensors and Follow Me Home headlamps. ABS and twin front airbags come standard for the top spec variant. As on the previous version, we liked the convenient position of the boot release button on the center console, but it can be difficult to spot for someone who’s driving the car for the first time. Boot remains cavernous as ever at 500 liters.

Engine, transmission and performance

Fiat has retained the 1.3 Multijet diesel with VGT and 1.4 T-jet turbo petrol engines on the new Linea. Both engines on the new Linea are mated to a five speed manual transmission. Much has been written about the two engines, and Fiat has not made any technical changes to the power plants.

On the diesel front, the tried and tested 1.3 Multijet diesel, which is termed by many as India’s national diesel engine powering a multitude of cars delivers a practical oil burning option. Peak power for the engine is rated at 92 bhp @ 4000 RPM, while maximum torque is rated at 209 Nm @ 2000 RPM. With an ARAI fuel efficiency rating of 20.4 kmpl, the engine is quite efficient, if not the most frugal in class. Packing decent punch with good everyday driveability, the engine is very well suited to Indian driving conditions. It’s practical, even if a bit noisy above 3000 rpm.

The 1.4 Multi-jet engine, on the other hand, remains one of the most exciting petrol engines in the mainstream segment with 112bhp of power and a tasty 207 Nm of torque. Coupled with Linea’s much applauded prowess in handling, this engine makes the T-jet Linea one of the most appealing of all drivers’ cars in its segment. The turbocharged T-Jet engine has an ARAI rate fuel efficiency of 15.7 kmpl

The ride quality of the Linea remains slightly firm. The firm feel of the ride quality gets even more pronounced with the rather firm cushion of the seats. There is a bit of bounciness to be felt at slower speeds, which settles down nicely as the sedan gathers speed. The Linea’s ride is at its best when it’s loaded with three to four passengers and at speeds above 60 km/h. The benefits of a firm suspension become more evident as you decide to attack corners, making the Linea emerge as one of the most delightful machines in its segment to have some fun with. The Linea rewards you with a great grip levels and very well contained body roll to make for an exciting driver’s car.

Next page for verdict and technical specifications>>>