Autoblog

Fiat to expand Canadian lineup with Panda and Punto?

Noah Joseph — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 12:02:00 EST

Filed under: Canada, Fiat

Much like Mini at its launch, Fiat remains largely a one-model make (here in the United States, that is). While that may not change anytime soon in the U.S., there are rumblings that the model lineup in Canada could expand.

Buoyed by sales proportionately larger above the 49th Parallel than below it, Fiat is apparently plans to add the new Panda (pictured above) and the aging Punto to the Canadian market. Coupled with the expected arrival of the 500L in Fiat "studios" both in Canada and the United States, suddenly the availability of affordable Italian cars looks on the up in the country where Sergio Marchionne was schooled.

Fiat to expand Canadian lineup with Panda and Punto? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat co-opts Jeep tagline for new Panda campaign

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Hatchback, Fiat

Recognize that tag line? It was used in the first ad for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a 90-second spot devoted to resetting our image of Jeep and, subtly, America itself. Chrysler parent Fiat evidently thinks so much of the tagline that they've taken it to Italy for use in the ad campaign for the 2012 Fiat Panda.

Italy's had a tough time of late: just as it was trying to get Berlusconi and his "bunga bunga" in the rearview, its debt crisis went from 'critical' to 'euro-zone threatening,' austerity measures led to social and labor unrest, and now comes the capsized Costa Concordia and an Italian captain with the unique ability to trip and fall into a lifeboat before his passengers.

The Panda doesn't softly beat the drum of national spirit, it instead presents the Panda as just one symbol of what Italy can be if it is dedicated to working its way out of its funk. The Panda is so symbolic that, unlike in the Jeep commercial, the narrator never mentions the car. It's airing on Italian television now, and you can see it after the jump.

Continue reading Fiat co-opts Jeep tagline for new Panda campaign

Fiat co-opts Jeep tagline for new Panda campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat Panda Classic keeps old model on the (European) market

Noah Joseph — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:57:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat

When a new vehicle arrives, the previous model is usually consigned to the history books. But that isn't always the case. Volkswagen, for example, has continued production of outdated models in South America and other markets years after they've been replaced. Jeep did the same with the XJ Cherokee in China, and now Fiat has taken a page out of the same playbook with the Panda Classic.

Launched in 2003, the outgoing Panda remains a strong seller in Italy (where, despite its lingering age, it held 38 percent of the market share last year) and across Europe (where its 15.7 percent market share makes it the top-selling city car). It's now being replaced by the New Panda, but rather than phase the old car out completely, it lives on as a budget proposition.

The front-drive Panda Classic will be offered in one trim level, with six color options and four engine options. The all-wheel-drive Panda Climbing soft-roader also soldiers on with similar specs.

Although the New Panda may be the better product in every way, European buyers on a budget may find the Panda Classic a tempting proposition with prices starting at just 7,900 euros. Full details follow in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Fiat Panda Classic keeps old model on the (European) market

Fiat Panda Classic keeps old model on the (European) market originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat previews updated Panda ahead of Frankfurt

Jeff Glucker — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:33:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Fiat

Fiat has prepped an all-new Panda, and the high-riding city car is set to make its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2012 Panda represents the current zenith of the front-wheel-drive compact's evolution. This third-generation Panda features a restyled exterior paired with an updated interior design and a handful of engine choices.

Two new engines join the Panda powerplant family, which brings the total number of available mills to six. The new units are both two-cylinder 900-cc engines equipped with Fiat's Start&Stop system to help cut down on emissions while raising fuel economy. Both engines are TwinAir mills, with one breathing naturally and the other utilizing forced induction by way of a single turbocharger. The non-turbo engine produces 65 horsepower while the turbo version pumps out 85 horses.

The rest of the engine lineup doesn't grow larger than 75-horsepower 1.3-liter Multijet II, and you can read all about it and the 2012 Fiat Panda by clicking past the jump to see the full press release.

Continue reading Fiat previews updated Panda ahead of Frankfurt

Fiat previews updated Panda ahead of Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat produces two millionth Panda in Poland

Noah Joseph — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:01:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hatchback, Fiat

Though the relaunch of Fiat in North America has centered around the 500, that's not the only model that the Italian automaker offers. Not by a long shot. And we're not even talking about rebadged Dodge models like the Freemont/Journey.

Overseas, one of Fiat's most popular models has long been the Panda. The vehicle forms the basis upon which the Fiat 500, Lancia Ypsilon and Ford Ka are built, not to mention the Brazilian-market Uno, making it one of the company's most successful and proliferative platforms. But even on its own, the Panda is a success in its own right.

In fact, the Panda has just reached its two-millionth unit built and sold, rolling off the line at Fiat's busy assembly plant in Tychy, Poland. The model in question (pictured above) is a red Panda Cross softroader with a 75-horsepower, 1.3-liter MultiJet diesel four - one of four engines offered across eight trim levels, in fifteen different colors with two drivetrain configurations. Follow the jump for the full press blast.

Continue reading Fiat produces two millionth Panda in Poland

Fiat produces two millionth Panda in Poland originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come!

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Crossover, Jeep, Fiat, Off-Road

2011 Jeep Phoenix Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It comes as little surprise that Jeep is looking beyond its current Patriot and Compass models, which have, to put it mildly, underperformed in the burgeoning compact CUV market. While the two concepts had lots of potential, the actual production ComPatriot twins were deemed uncompetitive with class leaders right when they were launched.

As such, the two models are both destined to meet their makers after the 2012 model, to be replaced by a single model sourced from Fiat. Can you say Panda (the image above is just a possible rendering, not a production car)? It's also worth noting that the iconic Wranger will get mild makeovers for both the 2010 and 2011 model years along with what seems likely to be a special 70th Anniversary Wranger for 2011.

Across the line, all Jeeps will reportedly come with an optional Trail Rated package, which means no more on-road only models like the Compass are likely to dilute the Jeep brand. That edict includes the new Grand Cherokee, and Jeep says the Trail Rated Grand Cherokee has already successfully tackled the legendary Rubicon Trail and Moab.

Gallery: 2011 Jeep Phoenix

Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Chrysler PT Cruiser gets unlikely stay of execution thanks to Fiat tie-up

Chris Shunk — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler

We've been telling you that Chrysler's PT Cruiser is destined for death for years now, yet the little wagon continues to endure. Inside Line is reporting that the PT has yet again escaped the gallow's pole, and instead the Little Paddy Wagon That Could will soldier on until December 2010.

The move will reportedly keep Chrysler's Toluca, Mexico plant running until the Fiat 500 and Panda arrive to fill the space. Inside Line says the two models will be built at the site beginning summer 2011, and the six or so months between the final demise of the PT and the beginning of the Fiat era will be utilize to retool the facility.

With the PT Cruiser possibly around for another year and a half, we have no choice but to continue to "enjoy" its retro-ness. Heck, with an 11-year-old platform and a design that hasn't changed much since its inception, the little PT is practically a living, breathing classic car in its own right.

[Source: Inside Line]

REPORT: Chrysler PT Cruiser gets unlikely stay of execution thanks to Fiat tie-up originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Court documention reveals which Fiats and Alfas are destined for U.S.

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Sedan, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

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

Curious which of its models Fiat plans to send over to the United States to sell through its planned partnership with Chrysler? Wonder no more. The most recent set of documents filed in Chrysler's Chapter 11 proceedings offer a number of intriguing clues as to what we can expect to see in the coming years.

Tom LaSorda, current ChryCo Veep, suggests that Fiat has agreed to assemble a vehicle using its C-EVO platform at one of Chrysler's underutilized U.S. plants. Further, Robert Manzo, executive director of Capstone Advisory Group, has specifically named the Fiat 500, Grande Punto and Panda (tellingly, Manzo called the Panda a Jeep) along with the Mito and Milano from Alfa Romeo as models coming to the aid of Chrysler.

Joining these new models would also be Fiat's 3.0-liter diesel V6 and 1.4-liter four-cylinder Multiair engine line, along with the Italian automaker's dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which would replace the units Chrysler will no longer be receiving from Getrag. The biggest question left unanswered seems to be what will be left of Chrysler's current line?

Gallery: Fiat 500

[Source: Inside Line]

Court documention reveals which Fiats and Alfas are destined for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 May 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat unveils another special little Panda

Noah Joseph — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Hatchback, Fiat, Specialty

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Fiat Panda 4x4 Glam edition

You might think that Mercedes and McLaren have been busy churning out new editions of the SLR supercar like madmen (you know, aside from winning the world championship), but they're just taking a page out of the Fiat playbook. The Italian automaker has once again unveiled a new version of its diminutive Panda.

Called the Glam Edition, the special version starts with the Panda 4x4 and updates it with a new pearl white paint job complimented by aluminum roof rails and a new set of 15" alloys, but the Panda 4x4 Glam differentiates itself further inside with denim-style upholstery that should bridge the gap between the hip Diesel edition 500 and the maternal Panda Mammy. We've got more images in the gallery below, but something tells us this isn't one of those European hatchbacks we'll be pining for Stateside.

[Source: Fiat]

Fiat unveils another special little Panda originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Nov 2008 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: 2010 Fiat Panda may take retro cues from 500

Noah Joseph — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Budget, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat

Click to view more of the rendered 2010 Fiat Panda in high resolution

The Fiat Panda has been on the market in its current form since 2003, making it a likely candidate for replacement in the next couple of years. The miniscule five-door hatch was a big success contributing to Fiat's revival, winning the European Car of the Year award in 2004 before donating its platform for the even more successful 500 retro-hatch.

Italian car site OmniAuto is featuring a series of renderings predicting what the next Panda could look like, borrowing some of the retro cues from its Fiat 500 stablemate. Of course, this is mere speculation at this point, and while Fiat could decide to capitalize on the sell-out success of the Cinquecento with a similarly-styled five-door, it could alternatively deem keep the two models entirely separate. We'll see by 2010 when the new Panda is anticipated to make its debut, but in the meantime you can check out the renderings in the gallery by clicking on the thumbnails below, and let us know what you think in the comments.

Gallery: 2010 Fiat Panda retro renderings

[Source: OmniAuto.it via Motorpasion]

Rendered Speculation: 2010 Fiat Panda may take retro cues from 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat Jolly vacation car returns as Panda concept

Stuart Waterman — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 13:56:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible

VIP visitors to the Isle of Capri this summer are being ferried about in this new Fiat concept car - the Panda Jolly. The latest in a long line of Jolly vacation cars from Fiat, The all sun, all the time Panda runabout was designed around Mediterranean and nautical themes by Centro Stile Fiat and interior designer Paolo Lenti.

The Panda Jolly retains most of the look and feel of the production car, aside from the obvious lack of a roof and doors, and a redone rear boot lid. Much of the design work went into the interior, with a modular arrangement of tube-frame seats covered with nautically-inspired rope and color-coordinated seat cusions. The ash wood floor, sills and rear deck continue the sailing yacht theme.

Show car builder Stola finished the cheerful little car with a sky blue metallic paint job.

Over the years, Fiat has produced a number of Jolly models, including versions based on the Multipla, 500 and 600. Check out the Jolly Registry here, and a gorgeous Fiat 500 Jolly here. In their heyday of the late '50s and early '60s, the Fiat 500 Jollys were a favorite toy of the rich and famous, including Yul Brynner and Aristotle Onassis, who used them as estate runabouts, yacht tenders and golf carts.

[Sources: Italiaspeed, Fiat, The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum]

Fiat Jolly vacation car returns as Panda concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Aug 2006 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat Panda Terramare 4 makes it across the English Channel

Stuart Waterman — Fri, 21 Jul 2006 17:02:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Etc.

Maurizio Zanisi apparently has way too much time on his hands. The Italian engineer has modified a Fiat Panda 4x4 with a flotation belt and a waterjet propulsion system to create the Panda Terramare 4 - a vehicle that adds a new dimension to "off-roading."

Zanisi's Panda paddleboat splashed into the English Channel today at the British seaside town of Folkestone and came ashore on the French coast at Cap Griz Nez six hours later. The distance covered by water was 25 nautical miles across a body of water that's the H2O equivalent of an L.A. expressway.

The watertight Panda has been paddling about since 2005, but this has been its longest ocean journey to date. Zanisi, who builds specialty vehicles for a living, estimates that the Terramare version of the Panda would sell for about €80,000 (around $100,000).

Thanks to Into Gear for the tip!

[Source: Italiaspeed, Quattroruote]

Fiat Panda Terramare 4 makes it across the English Channel originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Jul 2006 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat plans to double Alfa Romeo, Lancia sales

Stuart Waterman — Wed, 28 Jun 2006 17:56:00 EST

Filed under: Trends

Italy's Fiat Group, flush with the success of its flagship Fiat brand, has plans to more than double the sales volume of its niche-market Alfa Romeo and Lancia brands by 2010.

The aggressive target will put Alfa Romeo sales at 300,000 units annually, from 125,829 in 2005. Alfa Romeo plans to sell 180,000 units in 2006. (We're hoping that U.S. market sales will play a role in Alfa Romeo's growth.)

Sales of the Lancia brand were only 113,783 in 2005, but Fiat plans to increase sales to 300,000 units by 2010.

Meanwhile, the Fiat brand is powering ahead, with 2006 year-to-date sales in western Europe up 28 percent over 2005, driven by the success of its new A and B segment cars, the Panda and Grande Punto. Fiat's new C-segment hatchback, the Bravo, will be launched early next year, followed by the new Fiat 500 minicar (shown in spy garb at right). A new "family car" is also said to be in the works.

[Source: Reuters, Italiaspeed]

Fiat plans to double Alfa Romeo, Lancia sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jun 2006 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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