Fiat couldn't wait until the Geneva Motor Show to reveal its all-new 500L so it is giving us an early preview of its all-new sub-compact model. As you may have already guessed, the "L" in the name stands for "Large", with the 500L being the latest addition to the 500 range after the three-door hatch, the Cabrio and the Abarth models.
While the name and the styling (to some extent) refer to the 500 mini, the five-door 500L is based on the platform of the B-segment Punto measuring 4,140mm long, 1,780mm wide and 1,660mm tall. It is 594mm longer, 153mm wider and 175mm taller than the three-door 500.
The Italian company says the 500L offers "MPV passenger space combined with the feel of a small SUV on the road and the restrained dimensions and efficiency of a B segment car" and that it's an alternative to the traditional B and C segments.
The 500L is a five-seater model, though sources state that Fiat will present a longer version with seating for seven later this year. However, only the 5-seat model will be offered in the U.S.A.
The small MPV will launch in Europe in the last quarter of 2012 with an engine range that will initially comprise two petrol engines, the two-cylinder TwinAir anda 1.4-liter inline-four, plus a 1.3-liter turbodiesel. U.S. sales of the 500L are expected to start in 2013.
It will be produced at Fiat's factory in Kragujevac, Serbia.
8 Comments:
I like it, it's fun !
I can't see Fiat cracking the US with this model either - it is wilfully ugly rather than cute - the yanks will ignore it. Fiat are playing with the 500 sub-brand too, rather like Mini, but this car is obviously "Panda-L" in its styling - it debases the 500 name.
It's a mix of 500 and Panda, but is not a fault: the new Panda is very cute and pratical and also leader of "A" segment, whereas 500 is at top of style. This 500L go to replace Idea and for that kind of target is more important to have a smart car than a "toy car". But if smart car is also a trendy car what's the matter? Now they can have both. Well done.
Looks like the ugly child of a Mini Countryman and a Skoda Fabia to me.
Ugly and without any trace of personality.
I like it......including the above mentioned 500 and Panda influences, I also see a lot of Citroen MPV DNA in its proportions and detailing too.
More practical than the standard 500, room for four passengers and luggage. I think I'd take it with the turbodiesel.
after a few days.... I like it!!
nice. much better than normal 500.
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