24 October 2002: In Brazil, the Fiat Stilo has won the first ever 'Top Car TV - best car in Brazil' award. The prize was awarded by a panel of 14 TV motoring reporters representing the nine most important states in the Country.

The Stilo beat off the Ford Focus, GM Meriva, Toyota Corolla and VW Polo to win the prize. The Italian model went head to head with its prestigious rivals (all produced in Brazil) in terms of: technological innovation, mechanical parts such as the engine and transmission, fuel consumption, dynamic behaviour, safety, style, comfort and cost.

The Fiat Stilo's success with the motoring press has also been borne out by market acclaim. The first month's sales target of 2000 was achieved in 15 days and more than 7,000 test drives were carried out during the same period.

The Stilo is one of the contenders in the Semperit Irish Car of the Year 2003 competition, organised by the Irish Motoring Writers Association.