January 23, 2009 by nitram
The Fiat 500 has been a runaway success, but so far only the standard hatchback body-style has been offered The first derivative, however, is tipped to debut at the Geneva Motor Show this March.
Like the test mule spotted previously (and unlike Castagna’s concept shown above), the 500 C, as the convertible version will be called, will feature a solid frame between which a canvas roof can be deployed or retracted. Earlier reports suggested that this targa-style convertible would later be supplemented by a full cabrio, but we’ll have to wait and see on that, as well as the engine options. The standard 70-hp 1.2-liter four will likely carry over along with the 100-hp 1.4L unit that transformed the ho-hum Panda – with which the 500 shares its underpinnings – into the much-loved Panda 100HP go-kart. Diesel and Abarth versions may follow as well, along with a start-stop system anticipated to save 8% on fuel consumption to be offered on both the open and closed versions of the 500. We’ll bring you more on the 500 C as we approach the show in March, after which the retro targa will go on sale in England first and then other markets this spring to do battle with the new MINI Cabrio.
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January 21, 2009 by nitram
Confirming earlier reports, the Fiat Group and Chrysler LLC today issued a joint statement revealing that they have signed “a non-binding term sheet to establish a global strategic alliance.” Under the agreement, Fiat will take an initial 35% equity interest in Chrysler with an option to increase its stake. However, the Italian automaker would not be obliged “to make a cash investment or commit to funding Chrysler in the future”.
The alliance between the two automakers will give Chrysler access to Fiat’s fuel-efficient city and compact segment vehicle platforms, powertrain, and components that would be produced at Chrysler manufacturing sites, as well as access to additional markets outside North America using Fiat’s distribution network.
Aside from the cost savings opportunities, Fiat aims to use Chrysler LLC’s North American manufacturing plants to build /assemble Alfa Romeo and Fiat models bound for the U.S. market and to take advantage of the American automaker’s Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealerships to sell its products in the U.S.
The projected deal between Chrysler and Fiat was received lukewarm by the President of the United Auto Workers (UAW), Ron Gettelfinger who said, “”This is great news for the UAW Chrysler team and we look forward to supporting and working with them to ensure Chrysler’s long term viability.”
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December 29, 2008 by nitram
Anything you can do, I can do better. That seems to be the strategy over at the Fiat group vis-à-vis the MINI, which the Italian automaker has attacked from two flanks with the popular little 500 and the up-market Alfa MiTo. As we’ve reported previously, Fiat is said to be preparing a whole batch of variants of the 500, including two different convertibles and a wagon. Reports now indicate that, with MINI hard at work on its crossover and the Clubman already on the market, Fiat is preparing to strike back with an all-wheel-drive version of the 500 wagon.
Tentatively known as the Giardiniera, reviving the classic nameplate of the original, the 500 wagon would likely borrow the all-wheel-drive system from the Panda 4×4 which shares the same platform as the 500. The bean-counters in Turin are still reportedly deliberating over the project, but if approved, Fiat is anticipated to produce little over 30,000 unites annually. Whether the 4WD 500 wagon would wear the same bodywork as the existing model or the front-drive wagon, however, remains to be seen.
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November 26, 2008 by nitram
On Tuesday, 24 November, the one millionth Grande Punto rolled off the production lines of the Fiat’s Italian factory in Melfi. The commemorative Grande Punto is a Passionate Red Sport version equipped with the Italian firm’s 1.4 turbocharged petrol engine that puts out 120HP and it is intended for the British market. The first Grande Punto was launched in 2005 and was the heir of Fiat’s two best-sellers, the first Punto from manufactured 1993 to 1999 of which 3.5 million were manufactured, while the second series that was launched in 1999 and is still currently on sale under the name Punto Classic, has exceeded 3 million. The Punto itself had replaced Fiat’s iconic Uno supermini.
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November 18, 2008 by nitram
Fiat has just launched a new special edition version of its diminutive off-road model for the Italian market. What makes the Panda 4×4 Glam Edition special in Fiat’s eyes is the new pearl white finish that’s complemented by the aluminum roof bars and the newly styled 15-inch alloy wheels. Similarly, interior mods are limited to the new jean-like seat and door-panel fabrics along with the decorative aluminum trim on the dash. Power for the Panda 4×4 Glam Edition comes from either a 60HP 1.2-liter petrol unit or a 70HP 1.3-liter turbo diesel engine with prices in Italy set at €14,800 and €16,910 respectively.
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