Fiat is looking to expand its 500 model range with the addition of a crossover/SUV model to join the recently revealed long-wheelbase 500L.
The new car will replace the Fiat Sedici – basically a badge-engineered version of the Suzuki SX4 – and will reportedly wear the 500X moniker to denote a crossover or SUV-type bearing. According to Fiat, the 500X will feature both hatchback and SUV styling elements and will be underpinned by a revised version of the Punto/500L platform. With a wheelbase of 4 200 mm, it will be the longest member of the 500 family.
The 500X will be built at the firm’s Mirafiori plant, which is due to receive a 1 billion euro expansion investment. Production will commence by the end of 2013 with annual volumes as high as 280 000 units.
A Jeep-branded sister car, tentatively named B-SUV, will be aimed at the North American, European and Chinese markets with manufacture taking place in Poland and Mexico.
Like its Italian counterpart, the B-SUV is likely to spawn both 4×2 and 4×4 variants. The Jeep will also reportedly feature a Trail Rated version that will be able to tackle more extreme terrain conditions. Both cars are likely to feature Fiat-sourced powerplants, including 900cc Twin Air and 1,4 MultiAir petrol units and a MultiJet diesel.