Fiat’s 500 range will soon grow to include a convertible model, and it looks as though a small crossover will also join the lineup. The new 500 model will be closer related to a wagon rather than an all-out SUV, but will feature an all-wheel drive system.
Tentatively dubbed the Giardinetta, the new 500 model will be aimed at MINI’s newest Clubman model. Although the Giardinetta will likely be a bit smaller than the Clubman, it should be close enough in size to cause a second thought from MINI buyers.
The new 500 model will borrow its four-wheel drive system from the Fiat Panda, which rides on the same platform as the 500. No word on what powertains will be offered.
Fiat has yet to confirm the project, but according to Automobilwoche, the Giardinetta has been given the green light.
Fiat eventually plans to sell the 500 in the U.S., so –given that actually happens – the larger model has a strong chance of making it to our shores. Final production figures are far from official, but rumor has it Fiat is planning to sell about 32,000 examples per year.
12/24, 11:58 AM
posted by:
Mikestroh
Can’t wait until this vehicles comes to the States. I would definitely be interested in the Abarth Version.
12/24, 1:14 PM
posted by:
Madcapp
That’s a great car, and it needs to make it to the United States pronto. Press 2 for English.
12/24, 1:25 PM
posted by:
TomF
That is a spankin’ little car. I hope it arrives in the States before I have to buy a Fiesta.
12/24, 2:19 PM
posted by:
mlman
imagine a rear wheel drive one. oh no.
12/24, 4:33 PM
posted by:
NRG
I can’t wait until this car gets here to the states. Anybody know when they are planning to start selling their cars here?
12/24, 5:14 PM
posted by:
audifan
so im guessing that a larger ford ka will be coming out? great little cars fiat 500, especially the abarth, the standard model is a little over priced
12/24, 7:31 PM
posted by:
olds307
lol
we been there and done that in the 70s…… FIX IT AGAIN, TONY.
12/24, 8:22 PM
posted by:
howsmydriving
Speaking as a former Fiat owner, Fiat certainly gets my vote — of no confidence.
12/25, 11:47 AM
posted by:
Borat
Guys, I drove FIAT 500 in Spain and even with smallest engine (rental fleet) it is great little car. It felt better then a Mini and after a day of driving I did want to adopt it for good. It was difficult to get, ’cause they are extremely popular and rental agency advertised it but was trying to provide larger Renault as substitute for the same price. In September (before recession was in full swing) there were few and far apart 500’s in dealers inventory (according to FIAT version of Dr.Fill)
12/25, 9:05 PM
posted by:
Mutant@DCX
Don’t see it coming here. Belongs in Italy.
12/26, 11:47 AM
posted by:
TomF
US troops should withdraw from Iraq, invade Italy, seize Fiat 500s, ship to America.
12/26, 5:37 PM
posted by:
Gundy
HA!
12/28, 1:55 PM
posted by:
Austin Cooper
I can’t get Fix It Again Tony out of my head either when I think about Fiat. I remember their cars had a reputation for turning to rust too muy rapido. How have things improved for them since the 70’s?