Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Fiat builds one-millionth 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fiat 500

Fiat has constructed 1 million new 500 models. The company says that the milestone model rolled off the line at the manufacturer's Fiat Auto Poland facility. The one millionth 500 is a Lounge model with optional three-layer Bianco Perla exterior paint.

While the quirky little European runabout touched down on US shores for the 2011 model year, the hatchback has been on sale in the EU since 2007. In fact, Fiat sells the compact in more than 100 countries. While the North American model features a few aesthetic differences, including a revised front fascia, the car retains much of its European flair.

North American buyers have responded by dragging home a full 70,000 units since the model debut on our side of the globe. Each of those vehicles were manufactured at the Fiat plant in Toluca, Mexico. You can check out the brief press release below for more information on the Fiat 500 and the company's production achievement.

Continue reading Fiat builds one-millionth 500

Fiat builds one-millionth 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500fiatfiat 500one millionth fiat 500Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20384446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/20384446/article-detail.xml 20384446 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fiat-500-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fiat-500-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Couple buys 3,333 socks, gets free Fiat 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/couple-buys-3-333-socks-gets-free-fiat-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/couple-buys-3-333-socks-gets-free-fiat-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/couple-buys-3-333-socks-gets-free-fiat-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LittleMissMatched Fiat 500 - green with polka dots - front three-quarter view

For most of us, a mismatched sock is not something to be celebrated, but then most of us are not pre-teen girls. While we were admittedly unaware that the Punky Brewster look is back in favor among stylish kids, fashion company LittleMissMatched got our attention with its latest promotion: Giving away a Fiat 500 to anyone crazy enough to buy 1,111 "pairs" of socks.

LittleMissMatched sells its footwear three to a pack - with none of the three having identical patterns - so the couple from Seattle who acquired the Fiat actually bought 3,333 socks. Their $15,000 purchase price was a reasonable deal for the "free" 500 Pop itself, even before you consider that the car was packed almost full of colorful socks.

See just how many socks will fit in a Fiat in our gallery.

Couple buys 3,333 socks, gets free Fiat 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500cinquecentofashionfiatfiat 500 giveawaylittlemissmatchedpunky brewstersocksTue, 10 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20274959/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/10/couple-buys-3-333-socks-gets-free-fiat-500/20274959/article-detail.xml 20274959 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/image-6-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/image-6-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth sold out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-fiat-500-abarth-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-fiat-500-abarth-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-fiat-500-abarth-sold-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth in white with red trim - at speed, front three-quarter view

Eager to get your hands on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth? Get in line, and be warned: you're going to have to wait.

According to The Detroit News, Chrysler has stopped taking wholesale orders on the 2012 model year 500 Abarth. According to sources within the automaker, customers who plunk down the money for the hotted-up 500 right now will be put on the 2013 model year waiting list, with those cars expected to arrive in the fall. In a statement to the Motown newspaper, Chrysler officials simply said that the number of orders received "exceeded the production run of this model for the 2012 model year."

Chrysler had originally planned to build about 1,000 Abarth models for the 2012 model year. However, those cars were all spoken for by the end of April - the Abarth's first month on sale - so the automaker upped production to 3,000 units. According to the Detroit News, this was the maximum number of units that the Fiat factory in Toluca, Mexico could handle.

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 5002012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthcinquecentofiattolucaMon, 04 Jun 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20250917/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/04/2012-fiat-500-abarth-sold-out/20250917/article-detail.xml 20250917 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/abarth628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/abarth628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 America not available in its namesake]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/fiat-500-america-not-available-in-its-namesake/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/fiat-500-america-not-available-in-its-namesake/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/fiat-500-america-not-available-in-its-namesake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fiat 500 California

When a carmaker announces a European-exclusive limited edition, we often feel upset. Sometimes we even get irate. And then there are the instances like this one when we just chuckle and nod.

Not that there's anything exactly wrong with the Fiat 500 "America." We're sure it drives just the same as a regular 500, since, of course, Fiat hasn't changed anything mechanical. It's just that we're not quite sold on the "Old Glory" livery, which doesn't exactly work for the U.S. market. Think about it: Here the car would likely be perceived as a patriotic statement at odds with the car's foreign nameplate.

Overseas, well, we're still not sure why an American-flag bedecked car that looks like it was styled in the aisles of Pep Boys might be desirable, especially given the long-running European sentiment towards us ugly Americans ... but it's fashion, and who are we to argue with the Italians about that? That this is a numbered run of just 1,000 cars (500 two-doors and 500 convertibles) does mean that you won't encounter many others sporting the same side mirror covers, graphics, stickers and color-trimmed alloys or the red seats and contrasting white dashboard inside. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Fiat 500 America not available in its namesake

Fiat 500 America not available in its namesake originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500500 americacinquecentofiatfiat 500 americagenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 22 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20177156/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/22/fiat-500-america-not-available-in-its-namesake/20177156/article-detail.xml 20177156 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-america-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-america-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Stinger escapes from the hive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-fiat-500-stinger-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-fiat-500-stinger-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-fiat-500-stinger-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Fiat 500 Stinger

Now that Fiat is officially tied at the hip with Chrysler, it's no surprise to see the Pentastar's aftermarket division take to the diminutive 500 like a honeybee to clovers (sorry). Which explains the 2012 Fiat 500 Stinger, the first Mopar-fettled Fiat ever created.

The Stinger moniker seems to come from the machine's black and yellow paint scheme, which includes a somewhat homely set of bodyside decals and a checkerboard-patterned roof. Headlights, grille inserts, wheels and all other trim all get the black-out treatment.

Mopar-branded intake and cat-back exhaust kits are said to bump power from the 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, though the company isn't being specific when it comes to power figures. In any case, we pointed our camera lenses at the 500 Stinger, and you can see the results in our high-res gallery above.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Stinger escapes from the hive

2012 Fiat 500 Stinger escapes from the hive originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 5002012 fiat 500 stinger500500 stingerchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showfiatmoparWed, 08 Feb 2012 17:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167324/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-fiat-500-stinger-chicago-2012/20167324/article-detail.xml 20167324 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-stinger-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fiat-500-stinger-chicago.jpg <![CDATA[Abarth 695 shines in Tokyo with full chrome job [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/abarth-695-shines-in-tokyo-with-full-chrome-job-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/abarth-695-shines-in-tokyo-with-full-chrome-job-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/abarth-695-shines-in-tokyo-with-full-chrome-job-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari in chrome

The Abarth 695 was originally intended as a Fiat 500-based tribute to Ferrari. Hence the 695 Tributo Ferrari moniker. But this one looks more like a salute to McLaren.

Created by Japanese tuner Office-K and unveiled this week at the Tokyo Auto Salon, this special Abarth has had its Scuderia Red paint hidden under a full chrome vinyl wrap - similar to the one we reported on back in May - and capped with a tricolore racing stripe up the nose.

Otherwise, it's mechanically the same as the stock 695, which means a 1.4-liter turbo four driving 180 little prancing stallions through a five-speed manual to the front pair of 17-inch wheels with their Brembo brakes. It also means an interior with a chunky steering wheel, Sabelt racing buckets and Abarth's signature turbo boost gauge. Check it the chrome job in the video after the jump and the images in the gallery above.

Continue reading Abarth 695 shines in Tokyo with full chrome job [w/video]

Abarth 695 shines in Tokyo with full chrome job [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500695abarthabarth 695abarth 695 tributo ferrarifiat 500office-ktokyo auto salonvehicle wrapvideoTue, 17 Jan 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150457/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/abarth-695-shines-in-tokyo-with-full-chrome-job-w-video/20150457/article-detail.xml 20150457 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/abarth-695-tributo-ferrari-42-1326826162_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/abarth-695-tributo-ferrari-42-1326826162.jpg <![CDATA[Marchionne admits 50,000-unit sales goal for Fiat 500 "incredibly naive"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Fiat 500C front three-quarter

When Fiat pronounced that it was planning to sell 50,000 Fiat 500 models in 2011, we were more than a little skeptical. And now that 2011 is in the rear view mirror, it seems CEO Sergio Marchionne is ready to admit that the sales target was not very realistic.

CNN Money reports that the charismatic Fiat/Chrysler boss is now calling the 50,000 number "incredibly naive," adding that the goal was to best Mini Cooper's 2010 sales total of 45,644. Fiat only managed to sell 19,769 Cinquecento models for the year.

Given that Mini has been in the U.S. for a decade and the marque already has an established dealer body and marketing presence - as well as an entire range of products - critics have said that clear that Fiat's 50,000-unit first-year goal was ambitious to a fault. Marchionne went on to add "we set ourselves up for a fall," but the chief executive insists that the future of Fiat in the U.S. is still very strong.

Even though sales of the 500 came nowhere near 50,000 units, Marchionne says that the Mexico plant that builds the A-segment ride is still profitable. That's because the plant also builds models for South America and China. Marchionne is reportedly hoping to sell between 25,000 and 30,000 copies of the 500 in the U.S. in 2012. While the 500 will likely be the only Fiat-branded model available in U.S. showrooms in 2012, the lineup is at least set to expand with models like the $22,000 high-performance 500 Abarth.

Marchionne admits 50,000-unit sales goal for Fiat 500 "incredibly naive" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500500 abarthchryslercinquecentofiatfiat 500fiat salesmarchionnesergio marchionneTue, 17 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149282/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/marchionne-admits-50-000-unit-sales-goal-for-fiat-500-incredibl/20149282/article-detail.xml 20149282 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/fiat-500-c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/fiat-500-c-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #263]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoblog-podcast-263/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoblog-podcast-263/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/autoblog-podcast-263/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt and Fiat 500 sales flops, 14 million cars in 2012, most popular posts of 2011

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Episode #263 of the Autoblog Podcast is here with Chris, Dan, Chris Paukert, and Zach this week. Topics include the perhaps early condemnation of the Chevrolet Volt and Fiat 500 as flops, predictions of a 14 million new car year in 2012, and a little discussion around Autoblog's most-read posts of 2011. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #263:
In the Autoblog Garage
2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail
2012 Buick Regal GS
2012 Ford Focus
2012 Chevrolet Sonic

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:13:39
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #263

Autoblog Podcast #263 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 toyota 4runner2012 buick regal gs2012 chevrolet sonic turbo2012 chevrolet volt2012 fiat 5002012 ford focusautoblog podcastfeaturedTue, 03 Jan 2012 17:30:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #263Autoblog01:13:39 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139561/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/03/autoblog-podcast-263/20139561/article-detail.xml 20139561 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Dodge Journey, Fiat 500 recalled over contaminated brake fluid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-dodge-journey-fiat-500-recalled-over-contaminated-brake-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-dodge-journey-fiat-500-recalled-over-contaminated-brake-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/2012-dodge-journey-fiat-500-recalled-over-contaminated-brake-fl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Chrysler has issued a recall affecting a small number of 2012 Dodge Journey and 2012 Fiat 500 models built between October 24 and 26 of this year. These models - about 340 in total - are being recalled due to contaminated brake fluid that was put in during the vehicles' assembly. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these vehicles "may experience a degradation of the sealing components within the brake system."

To solve the problem, Chrysler dealers will replace all of the vehicle's components that come in contact with the hydraulic braking fluid. Of course, this service will be done free of charge, and the official safety recall is expected to begin during the month of December. Follow the jump for NHTSA's official release.

Continue reading 2012 Dodge Journey, Fiat 500 recalled over contaminated brake fluid

2012 Dodge Journey, Fiat 500 recalled over contaminated brake fluid originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 dodge journey2012 fiat 500500dodgefiatjourneynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyMon, 28 Nov 2011 18:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20116022/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/2012-dodge-journey-fiat-500-recalled-over-contaminated-brake-fl/20116022/article-detail.xml 20116022 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2011-dodge-journey-qs628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2011-dodge-journey-qs628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat USA has half-year supply of 500 models, 29 of 130 dealers didn't sell one last month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/fiat-usa-has-half-year-supply-of-500-models-29-of-130-dealers-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/fiat-usa-has-half-year-supply-of-500-models-29-of-130-dealers-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/fiat-usa-has-half-year-supply-of-500-models-29-of-130-dealers-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Fiat 500C

The 2012 Fiat 500 seems to be having trouble gaining sales momentum. Automotive News reports that the Italian hatch is likely to fall well short of its admittedly very ambitious 50,000 unit sales target this year. The model hit the market back in March and has only sold 15,826 units through October. The report also says that of the 150 Fiat dealers in the States, 29 didn't sell a single one last month (presumably at least some of them haven't shifted a vehicle because they were late opening in the first place). Either way, that's a lot of sales people looking longingly out of the show room glass. As a result, Chrysler is now offering a $500 rebate on the vehicle in an effort to entice buyers as the year comes to a close.

More alarmingly, Automotive News says that it has obtained internal company documents that indicates Chrysler has around a half-year supply of 500 models on hand if sales continue at their current pace. The automaker has even begun to scale back production in light of slow demand, reassigning 65 workers at the Dundee, Michigan plant responsible for assembling 500 engines.

Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler's CEO, says that the problem lies with the distribution network, while dealers claim that American buyers aren't interested in such a small vehicle. It remains to be seen whether the addition of the Jennifer Lopez-led national advertising campaign and the arrival of the 500 Abarth and related lifestyle models like the Gucci will result in a meaningful increase in sales.

Fiat USA has half-year supply of 500 models, 29 of 130 dealers didn't sell one last month originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500500ccinquecentofiatfiat 500fiat salesj.lojennifer lopezmarchionneMon, 21 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20111519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/fiat-usa-has-half-year-supply-of-500-models-29-of-130-dealers-d/20111519/article-detail.xml 20111519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-fiat-500c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-fiat-500c-628.jpg <![CDATA[Laura Soave out at Fiat [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/laura-soave-out-at-fiat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/laura-soave-out-at-fiat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/laura-soave-out-at-fiat/#commentsFiled under: ,

Laura Soave, Fiat bossBloomberg is reporting that Laura Soave, the head of the Fiat brand in North America, is leaving the company. The executive helped usher Fiat back into the U.S. market with the 500, but flagging sales, slow dealer network expansion and marketing disasters have fallen on Soave's shoulders, as have rumors of improper professional relationships. Rumors of her ousting/departure have been swirling for some time, making the announcement of little surprise.

Fiat has managed to move less than half of the 50,000 units per year that the company had projected for the 500 in 2011.

Soave will be replaced by Tim Kuniskis, a marketing executive within Fiat, according to the report.

UPDATE: It's official. Chrysler has released a statement confirming Soave's exit and Kuniskis' ascendance. Check out the release after the jump.

Continue reading Laura Soave out at Fiat [UPDATE]

Laura Soave out at Fiat [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500chryslerfiatfiat 500laura soavesoavetim kuniskisMon, 21 Nov 2011 14:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20111569/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/laura-soave-out-at-fiat/20111569/article-detail.xml 20111569 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/soave-200_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/soave-200.jpg <![CDATA[Sluggish Fiat 500 sales triggering layoffs at Chrysler engine plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/sluggish-fiat-500-sales-triggering-layoffs-at-chrysler-engine-pl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/sluggish-fiat-500-sales-triggering-layoffs-at-chrysler-engine-pl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/sluggish-fiat-500-sales-triggering-layoffs-at-chrysler-engine-pl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 may have taken overseas markets by storm, but that isn't quite the case here in North America, where a delayed rollout, overly optimistic sales projections and related issues have hampered the retro supermini's sales. So much so, in fact, that Chrysler has reportedly had to stop production of the 1.4-liter engine that powers the Cinquecento until demand catches up to supply. As a result, it has had to lay off a portion of the employees that build it.

The exact layoff numbers are in dispute, but according to a new Automotive News report, Chrysler itself pegs the number at 30 while the United Auto Workers' local representative says it's more like 100. Fiat initially pegged its sales projections at 50,000 units this year, but as of just a couple of weeks ago, it had barely sold 16,000.

Will the advertising campaign with Jennifer Lopez and the launch of the 500 Abarth performance model help the Fiat's numbers climb? Only time will tell, but one way or another, it won't come fast enough for the workers waiting at home by the phone.

Sluggish Fiat 500 sales triggering layoffs at Chrysler engine plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500chryslercinquecentodundeefiatfiat 500layoffsTue, 15 Nov 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20106650/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/15/sluggish-fiat-500-sales-triggering-layoffs-at-chrysler-engine-pl/20106650/article-detail.xml 20106650 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/22-2012-fiat-500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/22-2012-fiat-500.jpg <![CDATA[Tiny Fiat 500 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/tiny-fiat-500-earns-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/tiny-fiat-500-earns-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/tiny-fiat-500-earns-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Fiat 500 crash test

We hear it all the time when we're out test-driving any of the current crop of subcompacts: "Is that little car safe?" Well, if it's a Fiat 500, our answer should be affirmative, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The venerable independent testing agency has issued a Top Safety Pick award to the diminutive Italian cutemobile, which joins the Ford Fiesta as the only minicars to earn such praise.

The only caveat is that IIHS has specifically excluded 500's that were built before August 2011. According to the group, the driver's seat structure was modified to improve safety, and those cars without the improved seat were judged only "marginal" in the frontal offset test. The new seats help the 500 to score "Good" in that test, a rating the car also achieved in side impact tests and roof strength.

Fiat sales have been slow in the U.S., so perhaps this news might help Chrysler turn things around. At the very least, it will give owners a good answer to "What's going to happen if I hit you with my F-150?"

Crash test videos after the jump.

Update: As a point of clarification, IIHS consider the Fiesta and Fiat 500 so-called "minicars," while it classifies the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic a "small car." The Sonic also earned Top Safety Pick honors.

Continue reading Tiny Fiat 500 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]

Tiny Fiat 500 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500crash testfiatiihsinsurance institute for highway safetyminicarsafetytop safety pickvideoTue, 18 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20084247/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/18/tiny-fiat-500-earns-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/20084247/article-detail.xml 20084247 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/500crash-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/500crash-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 sales in U.S. not meeting expectations amidst marketing meltdown [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/fiat-500-sales-in-u-s-not-meeting-expectations-amidst-marketing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/fiat-500-sales-in-u-s-not-meeting-expectations-amidst-marketing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/fiat-500-sales-in-u-s-not-meeting-expectations-amidst-marketing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Chrysler set a hugely ambitious sales goal for the 2012 Fiat 500 here in the United States: 6,000 units per month. It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, to learn that early sales figures aren't exactly meeting expectations thus far, but according to Chrysler, this isn't by any fault of the car.

"I don't think we have a car problem; people love the car," Fiat chief marketing officer Oliver Francois said while speaking to Advertising Age. "I think we have an awareness problem."

Fiat has dumped its main advertising agency, Impatto, a small Southfield, Michigan-based firm that previously employed Laura Soave, who is now serving as Fiat's North American CEO. According to the report, Soave herself hired the Impatto back in January, and the ad industry rumormill has her on the hot seat for the failed relationship. How much fallout (if any) there will be from Fiat's advertising shakeup and the 500's underperforming launch remains to be seen.

Fiat's first attempt to market the 500 nationally on television has been with a recently launched music video-teasing spot starring Jennifer Lopez (view it after the jump), an effort that has been panned by many industry critics. And while company executives appear to bristle from the notion, Ad Age reports that celebrities have been essential to Fiat's brand strategy. In fact, the New York Post states that Fiat reportedly struck a deal with gossip TMZ in which the automaker would pay the website to photograph high-profile celebrities who were set up to drive the Fiat 500.

To date, Fiat has sold just 11,088 examples of the 500 range in the U.S., 3,106 of which were in August. And with new models like the Abarth not expected to arrive until next year, the 500 and 500C are the only offerings currently available. Head over to Ad Age to read the fascinating full report, and again, hit the jump to watch Fiat's television spot starring the voluptuous Jennifer Lopez.

Continue reading Fiat 500 sales in U.S. not meeting expectations amidst marketing meltdown [w/video]

Fiat 500 sales in U.S. not meeting expectations amidst marketing meltdown [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500commercialfiatj-lojennifer lopezvideoTue, 27 Sep 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20067482/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/27/fiat-500-sales-in-u-s-not-meeting-expectations-amidst-marketing/20067482/article-detail.xml 20067482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/07-2012-fiat-500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/07-2012-fiat-500.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat USA sees earnings boost on loaded 500 purchases]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/07/fiat-usa-sees-earnings-boost-on-loaded-500-purchases/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/07/fiat-usa-sees-earnings-boost-on-loaded-500-purchases/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/07/fiat-usa-sees-earnings-boost-on-loaded-500-purchases/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Fiat 500C

Fiat's return to the States after a 28-year absence has sent sales of its too-cute 2012 Fiat 500 soaring. Even better for Fiat, more than half of U.S. buyers are shelling out the dough to put higher-end 500s in their driveways.

According to Automotive News, half of the 500s sold to date have been optioned with the Sport package, which commands a $2,000 premium over the base Pop version. Around 20 percent of buyers are going straight for the Lounge models, which start at $19,500.

With the car's enviable spot as a style item adding to the madness, things are looking pretty sweet for Fiat at the moment.

Fiat USA sees earnings boost on loaded 500 purchases originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500fiatmarketingreportsalesSun, 07 Aug 2011 14:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20011184/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/07/fiat-usa-sees-earnings-boost-on-loaded-500-purchases/20011184/article-detail.xml 20011184 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-fiat-500c-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-fiat-500c-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat commences 500 national media onslaught [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/fiat-commences-500-national-media-onslaught-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/fiat-commences-500-national-media-onslaught-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/fiat-commences-500-national-media-onslaught-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fiat 500 advertisement

No new car launch would be complete without a corresponding marketing campaign. But when that launch and campaign are heralding the return of a famed automaker and nameplate to the American market after decades of absence, the marketing team is likely to be an especially important part of the overall success of launch... at least at the outset.

Such is the case with Fiat, which recently reentered the U.S. market by way of its bailout of struggling Chrysler. The car on which Fiat is banking its initial hopes on is the diminutive 500 and 500C convertible, and it's launching with a new tagline: Simply More. We'll let Fiat itself explain:

The FIAT brand's new tagline, "Simply More," defines the Fiat 500 as everything you need and nothing you don't. It represents the notion that the simple things in life are treasures, alongside the thought that the richness and fullness of a life well-lived is defined by one's view of self-expression.

Simply More... seems like a fine tagline to us, we're just glad someone was around to explain its meaning to us. In any case, expect to see this new marketing campaign in every facet of your life. In addition to the television spot you can see after the break, Fiat will also focus on print advertising, outdoor billboards, digital and social media and event sponsorships.

Check out some of the one-page ads in our image gallery, and check out the brand's first U.S. television commercial after the break.

Continue reading Fiat commences 500 national media onslaught [w/video]

Fiat commences 500 national media onslaught [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500500ccinquecentofiatfiat advertising campaignsimply moreMon, 01 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20006085/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/01/fiat-commences-500-national-media-onslaught-w-video/20006085/article-detail.xml 20006085 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fiat-500-marketing-launch-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fiat-500-marketing-launch-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Early sales show Fiat 500 going strong in Texas, manual transmission take rate high]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/early-sales-show-fiat-500-going-strong-in-texas-manual-transmis/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/early-sales-show-fiat-500-going-strong-in-texas-manual-transmis/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/early-sales-show-fiat-500-going-strong-in-texas-manual-transmis/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fiat 500
2012 Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the Fiat 500 launched here in the U.S., we didn't expect Texas to be one of the vehicle's largest markets. But according to Ward's Auto, that's exactly the case. Fiat boasts a total of 10 franchises in the land of cowboy boots and ten gallon hats - a figure that's only bested by the likes of California and tied with New York and Florida. The Italian automaker's North American boss, Laura Soave, says that a host of green and tech-industry workers, sprawling suburban living and the fourth-largest metropolitan center in the country in Houston, Texas is the perfect place for the 500.

Even more surprising is word that most Fiat dealers are ordering up the 500 with an impressive manual transmission take rate. In a country where most drivers believe their left foot is only good for mounting and dismounting their Hoveround, a full 70 percent of 500 dealer orders have been placed for manual transmission models - a figure that has surprised Fiat execs. Is there hope for the row-your-own way of life, or are these suckers destined to languish on dealer lots? Let's hope for the former.

Early sales show Fiat 500 going strong in Texas, manual transmission take rate high originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 fiat 500500fiat 500Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19979585/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/29/early-sales-show-fiat-500-going-strong-in-texas-manual-transmis/19979585/article-detail.xml 19979585 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/fiat-500-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/fiat-500-630.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat expanding beyond Chrysler-paired dealerships]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/fiat-expanding-beyond-chrysler-paired-dealerships/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/fiat-expanding-beyond-chrysler-paired-dealerships/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/fiat-expanding-beyond-chrysler-paired-dealerships/#commentsFiled under: , ,

fiat 500c
2012 Fiat 500c - Click above for high-res image gallery

Fiat dealerships aren't popping up quite as quickly as the original plans showed they would, but the retail outlets could get a push now that the automaker is looking outside of the Chrysler family. Automotive News reports that Fiat is now offering franchises to non-Chrysler dealers for the first time. There are currently 59 Fiat dealers nationwide, and the automaker plans to open 130 stores by the end of 2011

At one point, there were reportedly 130 Chrysler dealers that had been approved for a Fiat store, but many deals fell through for various reasons. A Chrysler spokesperson tells AN that letters of intent have already been sent out to seven non-Chrysler dealers.

While opening up the franchising process will likely speed up the pace of adding Fiat stores to the U.S., there are still many hurdles for the Italian make. For starters, the 500 is currently the only Fiat available in the U.S., and it could sit alone on the show floor for at least another year. And so far, Fiat has insisted that new franchises will only be awarded to those with plans to build a standalone store.

Though it doesn't sound like a great situation to us, we're guessing there are at least 71 more entrepreneurs willing to sign on the dotted line to gain another foothold in the car business.

Fiat expanding beyond Chrysler-paired dealerships originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500chryslerdealershipfiatfiat dealerfiat dealershipfiat franchisefranchiseWed, 01 Jun 2011 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19953784/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/01/fiat-expanding-beyond-chrysler-paired-dealerships/19953784/article-detail.xml 19953784 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-fiat-500c-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-fiat-500c-opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2012 Fiat 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/2012-fiat-500-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/2012-fiat-500-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/2012-fiat-500-first-drive-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Very Small Car In A Very Big America

2012 Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Five minutes behind the wheel sometimes tells you everything you need to know about a vehicle. Of course, you figure out more as the miles pile up, but the gained nuances usually support - not refute - that first impression.

Our first five minutes behind the wheel of the 2012 Fiat 500 shouted that it was solid, substantial and sporty. The rest of the day simply demonstrated the amplitude of these characteristics, and whether the exceptionally-popular-in-Europe 500 might actually catch on with American drivers.

We think it will.

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2012 Fiat 500: First Drive

2012 Fiat 5002012 Fiat 5002012 Fiat 5002012 Fiat 5002012 Fiat 500

Photos copyright (C)2011 Rex Roy / AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2012 Fiat 500

First Drive: 2012 Fiat 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500featuredfiatfirst driveFirstDriveWed, 02 Feb 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19824756/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/02/2012-fiat-500-first-drive-review-road-test/19824756/article-detail.xml 19824756 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fiat-500-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fiat-500-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 to have no-haggle sticker pricing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/28/fiat-500-to-have-no-haggle-sticker-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/28/fiat-500-to-have-no-haggle-sticker-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/28/fiat-500-to-have-no-haggle-sticker-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fit 500 U.S.
2012 Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Haggling, ugh. Generally speaking (and with a few notable exceptions) it's one of those unavoidable aspects of buying a new car from a dealership. If you're good and you're willing to shop around by pitting dealer against dealer, you may end up scoring something of a bargain. Thing is, if you're not such a good haggler, you're seemingly just as likely to pay more from a stealership than the next guy, which hardly seems fair.

According to Fiat's brand spankin' new United States arm, the younger car-buying generation isn't particularly keen on the notion of haggling for a better price. As such, the company has directed its dealerships to adopt a no-haggle pricing policy, starting with the new-for-the-U.S. Fiat 500. "The pricing is the pricing," said Laura Soave, head of the Fiat brand in North America to Bloomberg, much as it was with the now defunct Saturn brand. We think it's a lovely idea and hope it sticks.


Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Fiat 500

2011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 500

Photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

[Source: Bloomberg]

Fiat 500 to have no-haggle sticker pricing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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