The prayers of many American enthusiasts were answered today as Fiat's CEO Sergio Marchionne confirmed that the Fiat 500 will indeed be coming to the U.S. When Fiat purchased a 20-percent stake in Chrysler and announced plans to add smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles to the lineup, many hoped that this would mean a reintroduction of the Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands to North America. The adorable Fiat 500 was at the top of many wish lists.
The Fiat 500's arrival was hinted at in April, when Chrysler executives showed up on stage driving a 500. Marchionne has confirmed that four Fiat 500 models will be sold in the U.S.: the hatchback, convertible, Abarth and an estate model. The 500 will be the only Fiat product to leap the pond. "All of those cars will be coming to the U.S.," Marchionne said. "Fiat will be known in the US purely in terms of its 500 car."
Chrysler has been hurting for a viable small car for many years. The Neon was popular, but had a much-deserved reputation for poor quality, and its successor the Dodge Caliber has proven to be less popular. The cheeky, MINI Cooper-baiting Fiat 500 is certain to bring some excitement back to Chrysler's showrooms. No on-sale dates or pricing have been announced.
alessandro
July 3, 2009 8:12 PM
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