It must be one of the shortest stays ever in new car showrooms. Italian giant Fiat has axed its Croma range from UK dealer forecourts because of “disappointing sales”.

The compact MPV with estate car styling was launched in autumn 2005. But the manufacturer sold only 440 examples to the end of that year, while 2006 saw 827 find homes.

“It’s disappointing, but the figures speak for themselves,” said a company spokesman. “Fiat hasn’t stopped Croma production in Italy, and it continues to be made in right-hand drive. We’ve got a few in stock, but we won’t import the car in volume.”

Fiat will, however, still sell the cars to customers directly if they would specifically like to buy a Croma: “We can supply people who want one, although it will be done centrally, rather than via the dealer network,” said the spokesman.

The decision is down to Fiat’s need to prioritise the model lines it wants to promote. The company would rather put a big effort behind vehicles such as the Panda and Sedici, plus the forthcoming 500 city car.

Fiat has reviewed the reasons for the Croma’s poor UK performance, but won’t reveal them publicly. The 10-strong range included three trims and a choice of four engines.

When Auto Express contacted one dealer posing as a potential customer, the salesman told us: “Fiat is not recognised for selling large cars in Britain, and it’s difficult to get people to think about the company if that’s what they’re looking for.”

(This article was taken from www.autoexpress.co.uk)

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