Fiat may have had its first scuffle with Chrysler over a proposed strategic alliance, but the Italian automaker is still keen on gaining access to Chrysler ’s vehicle lineup – particularly its range of SUVs and minivans.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Fiat has a particular interest in Chrylser’s Jeep brand. Fiat has never been a strong player in the SUV arena, with most of its SUV products co-developed with Land Rover or Nissan .
Jeep ’s models would be of particular value to Fiat in regions like Russia and India. Developing regions tend to have less-than-ideal road conditions, with a surprisingly large number of wealthy consumers ready to spend their money on big ticket items.
If the Fiat/ Chrysler alliance continues as planned, Fiat’s Alfa Romeo ’s brand would also see at least one SUV or crossover model. However, it remains unclear if the Alfa model would be based on a current Jeep product or developed as a unique model.
Fiat is also interested in Chrysler’s minivan platforms. Fiat currently sells one minivan product in Europe, based on a Peugeot-Citroen platform. An alliance with Chrysler would eliminate the need to borrow architecture from Peugeot-Citroen.
