Fiat 500: the derivatives are coming, including possible mini-ute
Not a moment's rest for the people over at Fiat, who've been pursuing an aggressive rejuvenation program. The ink on the press releases for the new 500 isn't even dry, and already they're working on new versions of the retro super-mini. Launched as a standard three-door hatch, new versions could include high-performance models, a cabrio, a Mini Clubman-style wagon (or "shooting brake"), and even a 4WD mini-ute derivative.
The sportier Abarth model – drawing on the company's relaunch of their once-famous performance division – and the cabrio are said to already have been approved for production. Joining the 135-hp Abarth could also be an even more potent 155-hp 500 Super Sport version, while the 4WD model, if approved for production, would likely pick up the system from the Panda 4x4, which already shares its platform with the 500.
Fiat is evidently preparing to capitalize big-time on the 500 throwback, and while its Mini rival took some time to spawn derivatives, Fiat is ready to run full-speed right out the gate.
Gallery: Fiat 500
[Source: Motor Authority]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
autohobby 12:01PM (7/09/2007)
The vehicle I most want someone to make is a very small pickup with 4WD or AWD with about nine inches of ground clearance. It should have about a five foot long bed. The older Dodge Ramchargers were extremely close to making it.
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Colin Smith 12:13PM (7/09/2007)
Mini-ute. That would be a Tonka-Toy wouldn't it? I'd be surprised at this, and the 4WD to be honest, although the chassis is there already. But the station wagon and Abarth are both true to the original, and lets face it, anything can happen now.
I want the innovative twin-cylinder 90 & 110bhp model, with the elecro-magnetic valve actuation and consumption in the high 60s, which is coming in 2009. And Fiat won't be selling this engine on to other manufacturers like they do with all their Diesels!
The FedEx Man 12:06PM (7/09/2007)
Please don't Fiat.
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Brandon 2:08PM (7/09/2007)
I still want one in the US. My only complaint about the design is that I don't like the rear end; it comes down funny near the tires similar to the VW Beetle and has a Scion xA feeling to it. But I'll still buy one if it comes stateside.
I'd like one with big dual exhaust on it. :-)
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Egisto Soldi 5:33PM (7/09/2007)
Car is marvellous, but in Polland workers want more money: what an error!
http://autoinsight.blogosfere.it/2007/07/nuova-fiat-500-lo-sciopero-dei-lavoratori-polacchi-di-tychy-e-sbagliato-per-10-motivi.html
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Harrison 6:25PM (7/09/2007)
It would be totally awesome if they made a turbocharged RWD or AWD version.
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spots 7:00PM (7/09/2007)
I still want to see it come to the USA. :)
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GOT 2:46AM (7/12/2007)
I like it! Cool looking breadbox-auto.
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