First introduced onto the local market in 2000, the Palio enabled Fiat to expand its product portfolio in many directions
Over time, however, the Palio assumed its rightful role as an affordable, entry-level hatch in the Fiat range - its most recent incarnation being the five-door 1.2-litre Palio Active.
Although the basic design has stayed the same, the Palio has benefited from ongoing improvements and refreshers, the most notable being the major facelift it underwent in 2005 which involved a complete rework of the front and rear.
Over the years too, there have been several versions and limited editions that have helped keep the Palio top of mind. These have included the Palio Go!, Palio Eco, Palio Racing and Palio Special Series.
“The Palio has been a consistent performer and has helped put Fiat on the map in South Africa. So while its passing is tinged with nostalgia, the future for the Fiat brand in this country is even more exciting with new introductions to the Punto and Fiat 500 ranges,” said Oscar Rivoli, managing director of Fiat Group Automobiles South Africa.
