Fiat To Introduce 500-Based SUV

Reports indicate that Fiat is set to introduce an SUV, based on the popular 500, in 2010. The 4wd wagon-style variant would do showroom battle with Mini's upcoming Clubman crossover and would add to the expanding 500 product range.

The Fiat 500 wagon would likely use the same four-wheel drive system as seen in the Fiat Panda, with which the 500 shares its underpinnings.

Should the project go ahead, 32,000 units are expected annually with an as-yet undisclosed sticker price. Engine details are also unknown. The standard 500 offers 52kW 1.2 litre and 75kW 1.4 litre petrol engines, as well as a 56kW 1.3 litre Multijet diesel engine. It's unknown if these units could support the extra bulk of the larger vehicle and heavier drive train.

A 115kW 1.4 litre four-cylinder appeared in the Castagna-built Fiat 500 long-wheelbase wagon concept that was shown at the Geneva Motor Show this year. That would appear to be a sensible option for the heavier SUV.

The Fiat 500 is already a highly popular model. Adding a larger four-wheel drive enhanced version will surely widen its appeal. With a Cabriolet model also on the horizon, Fiat's 500 will soon have a model for everyone.