The use of the familiar Smart Car platform means we have a good idea as to the powertrains that will underpin the new Fiat SUV models. As seen elsewhere in the group, they are likely to share the same flexible combination of either a full-electric powertrain with a 44kWh battery pack, or small-capacity hybrid engine. When questioned about whether the platform is being prepared to accept a larger battery pack, Francios said: “No, this is not our plan, but instead of being bigger, we’re looking to make it better, with faster charging capabilities and better range, this is something that we’re working on.”
The interior will focus on spaciousness and versatility, with rugged finishes designed to be practical and hardwearing. Yet in contrast to Dacia with its Duster, for example, the Fiat brand is intent on emphasising the value in its design and heritage, so there will still be a sense of fun and high design, not just pure cost cutting.
Timelines for the new Fiat models have yet to be confirmed, but we could see one, if not both in production specification by the end of this year, before they enter production some time in 2025.
Fiat’s slow rate of new product launches and updates to existing models over the last few years has been a worrying sign for such an iconic brand – one that’s so important not just to the Italian car industry, but Italian manufacturing in general. But this is all about to change as Fiat now has the low-cost, flexible architecture it has long needed for models like the new Panda and the forthcoming C-Segment SUVs. Fiat appears fully focused on making the absolute most of it.
Want the latest car news in your inbox? Sign up to the free Auto Express email newsletter…