We went to get a design overview of the Linea and the Grande Punta, but Fiat threw us a pleasant curve ball. They had a 1300cc multijet-engined Palio waiting for us, with a chance to get in a preview drive.

The old Palio 1.9D was a great car, but when it came to the market. Fiat was in a tight spot. Since then, there hasn't been a diesel Palio. Until now. Well, for me. You guys will have to wait for the official unveiling at the Auto Expo in January, and the launch should follow soon after.

So, it’s been three years since the 1900cc, 63bhp diesel. The new Palio Stile diesel will sport the 75bhp, 1300cc multijet, the same motor that goes in the Swift, and in fact, a motor that is also slated to have a Tata innings in the offing. The Palio is a bit heavier than the Swift, plus there's gearing information which will come later, but my impression is that the Palio feels good, but not as peppy as the Swift. The interiors are exactly the same. It's not a slow car by any means, let me clarify that. The car has a new five-speed gearbox which should add some spice too. The car we drove was a prototype and that too for a really short stint, so I don't think it will be fair to comment on detailed things like shift quality and all.

So, the Palio diesel is ready to return at the Auto Expo.