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.
[Source: Motor Authority]
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