Quick Summary - Excellent economical, high torque, clean engine. Strong body and suspension. Interior fitments is a weak point. Delivery period can be high.
Got the delivery of my Palio Stile SD after a waiting period of 3 weeks. The dealer was not sure of when the car would arrive, which shows that Fiat and Tata Motors have work to do on communicating better together.
The ownership experience after 2 weeks and 950 km is very good. The car is delivering 17.2 kmpl in city plus highway riding with AC on about 75% time - which is very good for the pocket. The AC works great in the hot summer. The engine has real grunt especially after about 1800 rpm, and nothing else on the road can compete with it easily after that. Gear ratios are well spaced and you can drive all day long in 3rd gear in the city. Overtaking on the highway needs downshift to 4th only.
The interior of the car is quite dated. I have got it custom upholstered with an car decorator after which the car has become much more pleasant to ride in. There is more vibration on the dashboard than the Petrol model, which reminds you that this is a diesel. But overall engine noise is well damped on the inside.
I have had one trip up and down a few montain roads and the cars roadholding and brakes perform outstandingly. The steering is also well damped and overall this is a very good car to drive. Overall the reliability and solid feel is there to be experienced.
I will recommend this car for people who want something unique and quirky, and have the passion to stay away from the crowd with a FIAT!