Autoblog

Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon?

Jeffrey N. Ross — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Crossover, Fiat

Toyota tried to make family hauler commercials cool with its "Swagger Wagon" spot for the Sienna minivan back in 2010, but now Fiat looks to have created the unrated version of Toyota's idea with a web ad for its new Fiat 500L called "The Motherhood." Trying to cater to the 500L's target demographic, no punches are pulled as this blonde British mom attempts to describe all the joys of family raising.

We're not going to spoil anything for you here, but if you're hoping for useful information about the larger 500L, then this commercial isn't for you. If you're looking for an entertaining way to kill a few minutes, then check the (now viral) video out by scrolling below. With more double entendres than you'll know what do with, though, we have to warn you that this video's language might be a little unsafe for conservative workplaces.

Continue reading Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon?

Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Fiat 500L Trekking takes the hatchback into the big leagues

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:10:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Fiat

Didn't think it was possible to pull and pry at the diminutive Fiat 500 with enough gumption to make the Italian hatchback qualify as a large car (according to the EPA, at least)? Witness the Fiat 500L Trekking, seen above. It's a full 26-inches longer than the regular 500, and it's grown six-inches taller and wider.

All that stretching means there is 42 percent more interior room in the 500L than the standard car, which means it's a good thing the only engine available is Fiat's 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo four-cylinder engine, as seen in the Abarth, with 160-horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A manual gearbox is standard, and a dual-clutch automatic is optional, each with six gears.

The Trekking model features unique front and rear fascias and 17-inch alloy wheels to set it apart from the base 500L, and the black wheel arch and body-side sill moldings make it look more aggressive. Want to know more? Check out the high-res gallery above and scroll down below for the press release.

Continue reading 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking takes the hatchback into the big leagues

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking takes the hatchback into the big leagues originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Fiat 500L adds size, refinement and toys to 500 lineup

George Kennedy — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Fiat

Fiat is taking the lead from Mini and expanding its lineup of mini-me runabouts. The Italian automaker has done the 500 every which way, including convertible and performance models and now even electrified versions. Following this expansion comes the first actual growth in size; the 2014 Fiat 500L.

First shown at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the 500L features 42 percent more interior space through lengthening the 500 platform by 26 inches. With that added size comes added power, specifically the 1.4-liter MutliAir inline four cylinder engine. Also found in the Fiat 500 Abarth and Dodge Dart, the turbocharged four-pot makes 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a six-speed-manual transmission or a dual-clutch gearbox.

From what we can see, the 500L has a more refined and advanced interior than its smaller Italian stablemates. Most notable is the availability of the Uconnect 5.0 (and available 6.5) system, featuring audio and navigation controls, among other functions.

The four-door Fiat 500L is set to arrive at dealer showrooms mid-2013, and will be produced in Fiat's Kragujevac, Siberia plant... so you know the heat will work! To learn more about the 500L and its utilitarian predecessors such as the Fiat Panda and Multipla, check out the press release below.

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2014 Fiat 500L adds size, refinement and toys to 500 lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Fiat 500L rounds out the model range

Zach Bowman — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:07:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Fiat

Fiat has pulled back the curtain on the North American 500L ahead of the five-door's debut at the 2012 LA Auto Show. Engineers have drawn and quartered the base 500 to create a machine that's a full 26-inches longer and six-inches taller and wider. The result is a crossover with 42-percent more interior room than its tiny three-door counterpart. Power comes from a version of the same turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo four-cylinder engine that powers the 500 Abarth and Dodge Dart. The 160-horsepower mill is paired to the buyer's choice of either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch transmission, and offers 184 pound-feet of torque.

The 2014 Fiat 500L will come in standard and Trekking configurations, with Trekking models like the one above offering differentiated front and rear fascias as well as a two-tone interior, bulging fender arches and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. Designers also graced the trim with black exterior accents for a more aggressive look.

Inside, the 500L will offer Chrysler's Uconnect 5.0 infotainment interface as standard equipment, though Trekking models can be had with the 6.5 system and its larger touchscreen audio. Expect to see both trims show up in Fiat dealers toward the middle of next year. Until then, check out the full press release below.

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2014 Fiat 500L rounds out the model range originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler 200 successor to boast 38 mpg, 9-speed automatic

Zach Bowman — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Chrysler, Jeep, Fiat

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the next-generation Chrysler 200 will show off a host of improvements, including a fuel economy rating of 38 miles per gallon on the highway. That's a jump of seven mpg over the current model, and much of that efficiency can be chalked up to a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Expect to see the revised 200 show up on dealer lots in the first quarter of 2014. The news came courtesy of a dealer meeting in Las Vegas, where Chrysler unveiled upwards of six new vehicles set to arrive within the next year and a half.

Chrysler reportedly also showed off its subcompact 100, said to be based on the Dodge Dart. Other vehicles shown at the dealer sit-down included a four-door version of the Fiat 500, the replacement for the Jeep Liberty and a new small Jeep as well. Both dealers and the manufacturer are keeping the rest of their secrets to themselves at the moment. Stay tuned.

Chrysler 200 successor to boast 38 mpg, 9-speed automatic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Seven-seat Fiat 500XL leaked ahead of Paris debut

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:32:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Paris Motor Show, Crossover, Fiat

The Fiat 500 continues its program of aggrandizement, going from the five-seat 500L and 500X to the seven-seat 500XL - that is, if these patent drawings and snapshots from Fiat's Centro Stile are accurate pictures of the future. The 500 is 11.6 feet long, appending the L added exactly two more feet, and the XL is said to be another six inches longer in the rear overhang to make room for that third row. The Small U.S. Wide (SUSW) platform it sits on will, so it is said, find its way under "a future B-segment Jeep crossover."

While the Fiat 500L is on its way to dealerships this year, the 500XL (if that ends up being its production name) isn't expected to hit showroom floors until later in 2013. It is believed that it will not be coming to the U.S., the rumor being that Fiat doesn't think Americans are ready for a tiny seven-seater. We might see all of them at the Paris Motor Show next month and get a handle on which 500 will go where.

Seven-seat Fiat 500XL leaked ahead of Paris debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat 500L to launch with world's first in-car coffee maker option [w/video]

Chris Tutor — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Technology, Videos, Crossover, Design/Style, Fiat

Generally speaking, until we've had at least twice of the FDA's recommended daily allowance of caffeine, we aren't as observant as we need to be. For instance, when we wrote about the newly announced Fiat 500L, we were so distracted by its massive glass roof, seating for five and the potential of six engine choices we totally overlooked a small, but buzzworthy option.

When launched, the 500L will be the first production car in the world to offer a "true espresso coffee machine." Yup, right there between the front seats plugged into its very own power source will be an actual, water-boiling, caffeine-dispensing, java-juicer.

Developed by famed Italian coffee maker Lavazza, the "Coffee Experience" kit comes with car coffee cups, a spoon holder and its own sugar container. At least one media outlet says the kit will cost €250 (about $300 USD). Fill the Lavazza 500 base with water and pop it into the center cupholder. The heating element boils the water, steeping the coffee-filled pod in the top part and, seconds later, you have a piping hot cup of brew.

Well, not you. Unless you live somewhere other than the States. Because while we fully expect the 500L to be sold here, there's no indication from Fiat that the Coffee Experience kit will make it through the gauntlet of attorneys just itching for a good burn lawsuit. It could happen, but it's not likely, so we're guessing 500L owners will want to keep an eye out on eBay for retrofit possibilities. Check out a couple of videos by scrolling down to see if it percolates your interest.

Continue reading Fiat 500L to launch with world's first in-car coffee maker option [w/video]

Fiat 500L to launch with world's first in-car coffee maker option [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics Aplenty: More Fiat 500L images, details divulged

Zach Bowman — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Crossover, Fiat

After first revealing its new baby at the Geneva Motor Show in March, Fiat has finally served up more information and images on its upcoming 500L. Spanning 13.6 feet from tip to tail, the Italian automaker says there's room for five full-grown adults inside along with room for their luggage, thanks in part to a rear bench that can slide fore and aft as need be. All told, there's a bit more than 14.1 cubic feet of cargo area out back, which bests the Mini Countryman by nearly two cubic feet. With the second row seats stowed and the front passenger seat folded forward, the 500L can also transport material just shy of eight-feet long.

In Europe, buyers will be able to chose between two gasoline engine options: a turbocharged 0.9-liter two-cylinder good for 105 horsepower or a 95-horsepower 1.4-liter four-cylinder. An 85-horsepower 1.3-liter turbodiesel will also be available. Later, Fiat plans to introduce a version of the two-cylinder designed to run on methane.

The Fiat 500L will be produced in Serbia and will be available with options including UConnect with a five-inch screen, a glass roof that covers five square feet and 11 different body colors. No word yet on a U.S. on-sale date, but we do expect the plus-sized Cinquecento to make it to our market, awkward looks and all. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: More Fiat 500L images, details divulged

Pics Aplenty: More Fiat 500L images, details divulged originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat surprises journalists with 500X sneak peek

Chris Tutor — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Paris Motor Show, Crossover, Mini, Fiat

Fiat is aiming its 500 lineup straight at Mini with the 500L and now this Countryman rival, the 500X.

To us, the vehicle shown here (reportedly shown as a teaser to a pool of assembled journalists) looks to have opaque windows which could indicate that it's a non-rolling prototype, possibly without an interior.

CarsUK guesses it's based on the 500L, suggesting the same 1.4-liter gasoline and 1.3-liter diesel engines will be available. It also makes sense to expect a better look and more details on the 500X that will presumably be released at the Paris Motor Show this September. The vehicle looks somewhat similar to the already-shown 500L, but its raised ride height, trim-free doors, rounded wheel arches and matte lower trim improve the look greatly in our opinion. The best part? It doesn't have the 500L's awkward wraparound windshield or its ungainly greenhouse and stepped roof. The faster rear windscreen angle and different lighting looks much cleaner, too.

Without citing a source, Indian Cars Bikes maintains the 500X is just over 13 feet long and will be available with all-wheel drive with production starting in late 2013.

Check the video below and watch for details coming ahead of Paris in September.

Continue reading Fiat surprises journalists with 500X sneak peek

Fiat surprises journalists with 500X sneak peek originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jul 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat turns old Yugo factory into its most advanced plant

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Fiat

Several years ago, we were surprised to discover that the Yugo was still being made. Sometimes dubbed the worst car in history, Serbian automaker Zastava continued producing the Yugo through 2008 when the last one rolled off the assembly line in Kragujevac after a twenty-year production run. That was only months after Fiat inked a deal to buy the company and its assets, including the factory.

Now almost four years later, Fiat has finished upgrading the Cold War-era assembly plant into what it now calls its most advanced factory yet. Inaugurated just the other day by Chrysler/Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne and Serbian Prime Minister Mirko Cvetkovic, the former Zastava plant has undergone a billion-euro renovation, including new production shops, machinery, infrastructure, landscaping and roof over a 1.4 million square meter site.

By the end of the year, the plant will employ a workforce of some 2,400. Their first task will be production of the new 500L mini-minivan (pictured above), which is scheduled to begin delivery (at a rate of as many as 200,000 units each year) from the former Yugoslavian country to markets across Europe and around the world later this year.

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Fiat turns old Yugo factory into its most advanced plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Fiat 500L is one homely Cinquecento [w/video]

Chris Paukert — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Videos, Crossover, Design/Style, Diesel, Fiat

The Fiat 500 wins hearts and wallets by trading in large measure on its unassailable cuteness and compact dimensions. But that's not enough for Sergio Marchionne and Company, who are looking to broaden the range's appeal with this new 500L. Certainly, it's bigger by nearly every measure, but after having clapped eyes on this thing in person at the Geneva Motor Show, we think it gives up a disturbing amount of the standard car's adorableness in exchange for the extra utility.

Clearly, it's not for lack of trying - Fiat has splashed out not just on a lot of new sheetmetal and light fixtures, it has also opted for a very different (and markedly more conservative) instrument panel inside. The family-minded Cinquecento has a roofline that apes that of the Mini Countryman, but like the 500, there should be no lack of customizability, including a whopping 30 different paint colors.

When it launches in Europe at the end of this year, the 500L will be available with Fiat's groundbreaking 900cc, two-cylinder TwinAir and 1.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines, along with a 1.3-liter MultiJet diesel. No North American release date has been made public, though the model is expected to be available in our market before too long. Check out the gallery of live shots above, then look below for a short official video and press release.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500L is one homely Cinquecento [w/video]

2012 Fiat 500L is one homely Cinquecento [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show

Zach Bowman — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:57:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Crossover, Hatchback, Fiat

Fiat has finally tipped its hand on the 500L. After months of watching painful renderings of the five-door hatchback float to the surface, the company has dished a few official details ahead of the vehicle's debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March.

The 500L is 162.9 inches long, a smidge over 70 inches wide and 65.3 inches tall. Fiat says the four-door 500 combines an SUV driving experience with B-segment fuel efficiency and could easily serve as a first car for those who like the 500 but need a little more functionality. The Fiat 500L will begin production in Europe in the last quarter of this year. When it does, two gasoline engines and a turbo-diesel will find their way behind the headlights.

The Italian automaker isn't saying much about the company's plans for the 500L in the U.S., but we've previously heard American buyers will be able to sample the five-seater soon. Believe it or not, a seven-seat version is also planned for Europe. Follow the jump for the full press release and stay tuned for the unveil on March 6.

Continue reading Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show

Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat dishes up more information on 500L five-door

Zach Bowman — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Etc., Crossover, Fiat

Fiat has served up a few more tidbits on the upcoming 500L five-door expected to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. According to Automotive News, the vehicle will feature a taller roof than the thee-door Fiat 500, and while the two sill share a front fascia, the larger vehicle will ride on a widened version of the same chassis that underpins the Fiat Punto. All told, the Fiat 500L will be around 163.38 inches long, which is around 2.36 inches longer than the current 500.

Interestingly enough, Fiat plans to introduce both five-seat and a seven-seat version of the 500L in the near future, though American buyers are only likely to be able to enjoy the former configuration. The 500L is expected to touch down on dealer lots in Europe in July, while Americans will have to wait until early 2013 to plop themselves in the driver's seat.

In Europe, the vehicles will likely be available with with a turbocharged two-cylinder 900cc gasoline engine with 85 horsepower as well as a 1.4-liter four-cylinder good for either 77 or 105 hp depending on configuration. A 1.3-liter diesel will also be an option across the pond with either 75 or 99 hp. Odds are American buyers will simply see the 1.4-liter Multiair four-cylinder on their option sheets.

Fiat dishes up more information on 500L five-door originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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