THE Geneva Motorshow was this week set to mark Fiat's return to the station wagon segment with the world premier of the New Croma.

Fiat once led this segment, in terms of comfort and technological innovation, with 1986 seeing the introduction of the Croma TDI, the first direct-injection diesel engine in the world.

Now the New Croma introduces three turbodiesels - a 120bhp or 150bhp 1.9 Multijet unit and a brand-new 200bhp 2.4 Multijet.

Due to go on sale this summer, the New Croma boasts great roominess, technological innovation in the diesel power-unit field and quality.

Its originality lies in its elegant, distinctive style that remains dynamic and well-proportioned. The car is 475cm long, 177cm wide and 160cm high, with a wheelbase of two metres and 70cm. All these figures add up to extraordinary interior roominess.

The length and width of the New Croma are in line with the competition but it is about 10cm higher, while the interior dimensions are bigger than average for the segment. Access is also great, due to the flat floor and raised H points at front and rear.

The interior space is comparable to that offered by an MPV. This is evident in the gear lever in the centre of the fascia, the large amount of space between the rows of seats (the best in its category) and the high driving position that ensures better control of the road and improved exterior visibility.

Altogether, the New Croma is a car created to meet people with different needs, tastes and lifestyles, who all have something in common - the desire for a good-looking, comfortable car.

For those who seek outstanding performance, the Croma offers a powerful 200bhp 2.4-litre Multijet engine (combined with a six-speed automatic sequential gearbox) that sets the car at the top of its category in terms of its specific power rating - 83bhp/litre.

The New Croma looks good outside and boasts an unequalled amount of interior space.

Like the exterior, the passenger compartment shows Fiat style and practicality. The passenger compartment interior lines are harmonious and balance well with the exterior shape. Together with the oceans of glass, they create a bright environment and a perception of outstanding interior roominess.

A welcoming, well-lit environment is assured, offering much more comfort than you would expect from a conventional station wagon in terms of space available to the driver and passengers.

Suffice to say that anyone can find their ideal driving position with the numerous seat settings.

Comfort is also assured by the numerous interior customisation alternatives. Both seats are height-adjustable, the outstanding steering wheel, pedal and gearbox positions are designed for maximum control, and the instruments are practical, accurate and easy to read.

Also, the multifunction display provides access to various menus and offers a host of functions plus a trip computer, while a climate control system that is bilevel for temperature and distribution makes a significant contribution to on-board wellbeing.

Lastly, a radio with CD player - and an MP3 player as an option - offers an excellent sound system tailored to the vehicle, complete with six speakers.

Equipment levels are high and include ESP, xenon headlights and up to nine airbags, CONNECT Nav+ and a hi-fi system with eight speakers and a subwoofer, cruise control and automatic sequential transmission, double sunroof with extensive glazed area and alloy wheels.

New products include large door mirrors with aspherical mirrors that ensure outstanding visibility or an innovative modular luggage system that allows you to choose the best solution for your needs at all times. One position allows you a flat floor plus a hidden space for your treasures, while the second allows you to make the most of the entire load volume.

The range is diverse with a combination of three specifications, five engines and the same number of gearboxes. Each specification comes with different fabric trims and two shades - grey or beige. Customers can choose leather upholstery as an option.

The New Croma caters for passive safety with up to nine airbags (seven are always fitted as standard) and seatbelts with pretensioner and load limiter. Three-point belts are fitted at the rear, even on the middle seat.

In fact, thanks to work by the safety engineers, the new model is one of the safest cars in its entire segment.

For more information, call Alan Gibson Fiat on 01256 355221.