Fiat grew its used car sales by 47% in 2009 according to managing director Andrew Humberstone.

Its market share overall was 3.02% last year, the best since 2002.

After redesigning the organisation and withdrawing from loss-making fleet business, around 70% of its 162-strong network is now in profit.

Now, Fiat wants to re-enter the fleet and remarketing sectors, but of course, only where it is profitable.

Humberstone said: “We need to be in 50% of the market we’re absent from.”

This year, the carmaker will move forward with internet and mobile technology to interact with consumers, for example to book test drives and for general marketing.

It is also introducing a loyalty car to improve customer retention.

Alongside its customer star rating, by which Fiat buyers can rate a dealer online, the manufacturer hopes to largely improve customer satisfaction.