Fiat 500 USA

Fiat Dual Dry Clutch Transmission Making Its Way to the US

2012-02-23T01:02:00.000-05:00

Here is an overview of how the dual dry clutch transmission works and what it does for the driving experience.

When the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth was unveiled last November, conspicuously absent was any mention of an automatic type gearbox. However, buried deep inside Fiat are plans to produce dual dry clutch (DDC) transmissions suitable for A and B segment cars. We've explored these plans in the past (go here), but now that the new 2013 Dodge Dart will be available with the Alfa TCT (Twin Clutch Transmission), let's revisit the story.

In Europe, the Alfa TCT dual dry clutch transmission (C635 TCT) is considered the class benchmark for its ratio between performance, fuel consumption and emissions.

This cutting edge transmission is spec'd out for cars larger than the Fiat 500, however, there are two smaller DDC transmissions developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies that could fit the Fiat 500, as well as other A and B segment cars.

The first is a seven speed DDC transmission with a torque capacity of up to 140lbs.ft. (190Nm). This is suitable for Fiat 500 models with TwinAir, 1.2 liter, 1.4 liter and 1.3 liter MultiJet engines, plus the NAFTA Fiat 500 if Fiat so desires (the NAFTA 500 is available with an Aisin manufactured, conventional 6 speed, torque converter equipped auto trans).

The other DDC transmission is called the C625 TCT. This unit has a much higher torque capacity of between 148-184 lb.-ft. (200-250 Nm) and would be ideally suited for the US Fiat 500 Abarth's 170 lb.-ft (231Nm) torque rating. So far, there has been no mention of any future transmission options available for the Fiat 500 Abarth, but keep this info in mind.

Not much has surfaced about these smaller DDC transmissions other than the story I did back in June 2010 and in a few postings mainly on Italian sites, however there was a brief announcement in Automotive News last summer saying that Fiat will begin building DDC transmissions in China in 2013.

The manufacturing will occur at Hangzhou Haveco Automotive Transmission Co; a joint venture equally owned by Fiat, Guangzhou Auto and Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group Co. Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group Co is the largest gearbox manufacturer in China and produces transmissions for a wide variety of applications from light duty all the way to heavy marine transmissions for cruise ships.

The plan is for these new sophisticated transmission types to replace the older, cheaper Dualogic automated manual gearboxes used wherever the NAFTA Fiat 500 isn't sold. The A and B segment are extremely price competitive and to make the DDC transmission a viable option, Fiat set a goal to have the DDCT achieve the same manufacturing cost as the Dualogic. The plant in China should help Fiat reach this goal.

At this time, it is unknown which dual dry clutch transmissions will be built in China; the larger C635 TCT or the smaller units or a combination of both. We'll continue to keep tabs on this story as it goes a long.

Sources: Automotive News, Fiat SpA

The New Abarth 695 Tributo Maserati

2012-02-22T00:08:00.000-05:00

Abarth is unveiling a new tribute model at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, March 8 - 18. The new 695 Abarth Tributo Maserati pays homage to its sister company Maserati, and has been thoroughly massaged in keeping with Maserati's high performance and luxury car standards.

The car starts as a Fiat Abarth 500C cabrio and gets the full 'Tributo' performance treatment. Mechanical upgrades include; uprated engine tuning to 180 horsepower, brakes with larger, 305 mm drilled front discs clamped by 4 piston Brembo calipers, Koni dampers, and exclusive 17x7 "Neptune" wheels. An electrically-operated manual Abarth Competizione gearbox with steering wheel control and Abarth "Record Monza" variable back-pressure "dual mode" exhaust complete with hexagonal exhaust tips round out the performance package.

Besides outstanding performance, a car labeled "Tributo Maserati" must also promise exclusive luxury and details. This new Abarth doesn't disappoint and captures the elegance of Maserati with distinctive exterior and interior trim.

The exterior features the unique Maserati paint color Pontevecchio Bordeaux complemented by a grey cloth top, Xenon headlights and special "Tributo Maserati" badging.

Inside, the collaboration of Maserati and Abarth is in full effect. The seats are upholstered in supple sand beige Poltrona Frau ® leather with "695" embossed into the headrests and the rear side panels and door panel inserts are treated to a stylish flocking effect. Trim includes a matte finished carbon fiber dashboard, black leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and sill plates, and a carbon fiber kick plate with customised "Abarth 695 Tributo Maserati" graphics.

The 695 Abarth Tributo Maserati is an exclusive vehicle with only 499 being produced. It and the other limited edition 500 Abarths can be viewed on the new Abarth website called abarthspecialties.com, debuting next month during the Geneva Motor Show. The new site will cover all special edition Fiat 500 Abarth models from the "Opening Edition" in 2008 to the current models and beyond. I'll announce when it goes live. Don't miss it!

Abarth 695 Tributo MASERATI Technical specifications
1.4 16v Turbo MTA 180 HP Engine
• 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cm3.
• Power: 180 HP (132 kW) at 5500 rpm.
• Maximum torque 184 lbs-ft (250 Nm) in sport mode at 3000 rpm.
• Supercharged with Garrett 1446 turbo

Transmission
• 5 gears, C510 gearbox family with gear paddles on steering wheel
Suspension
• Abarth Koni front shock absorbers with FSD valve
• Abarth Koni rear shock absorbers with FSD valve
• Lowered ride.

Steering
• Electric power steering with “sport mode”

Brakes
• Floating, perforated and self-ventilating front brakes ø 305 mm × 28
mm
• Perforated rear brakes ø 264 mm × 22 mm
• TTC - Torque Transfer Control

Wheels
• 7×17" alloy rim Tyres: 205/40 R17"

Emissions
• Euro 5 EEC-F5 standard
Emissions of CO2 • 151 g/km

Consumption
• Urban consumption (l/100 km): 8.4
• Combined consumption (l/100 km): 6.5
• Extra-urban consumption (l/100 km): 5.4

Performance
• Max speed >225 km/h.
• Acceleration 0–100 km/h: <7 secs.

Fiat 500 on Display at the Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance

2012-02-21T11:38:00.000-05:00

Fiat 500s on display along with new and vintage Ferraris and other Italian exotics, in a beautiful Palm Springs setting. Folks, car shows don't get any better than this.

On Sunday, February 26, the Official Southern California chapter of the FIAT CLUB AMERICA and FIAT LANCIA UNLIMITED CLUB will be displaying cars at the spectacular Concours d’Elegance at the Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa in Beautiful Rancho Mirage.

A display area on the golf course, adjacent to the Concours d’Elegance exhibit, will be reserved for the FIAT Club America Socal Chapter. It is the perfect venue for the Fiat 500, a car you can drive to the market one day, and the next day, park alongside an exotic car and not look out of place.

Use the links below to find out more:

FIAT Club America Socal Chapter Facebook Page

Visit the Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance Website Here

About the Rancho Mirage Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance
An annual celebration of beauty, art, design and engineering, this 2 day premier motorsports event culminates with the prestigious Concours d’Elegance. In addition to more than 250 classic cars, featuring the finest examples of automotive excellence, exhibit areas will include displays of other collectible items such as jewelry, watches and art. Visitors will enjoy fine food, beverages and music while viewing rarely seen automobiles, many from private collections and museums.

In 2012, the setting for the Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance is the beautiful Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa, in the heart of the Palm Springs valley, it is renowned for world-class hospitality. Often recognized by prominent publications as one of the top destination resorts in the world, the 45-acres of lushly landscaped grounds and warm, perennial sunshine makes it an ideal paradise.

The Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance is a 501(c)(3), non-profit corporation. Net proceeds from the event will be donated each year to several charitable organizations in the Coachella Valley.

Source: Rancho Mirage Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance

Details on the New Fiat 500L

2012-02-20T13:32:00.000-05:00

Fiat has just released more information on the new Fiat 500L, making its debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, March 8 - 18. The Fiat 500L will be available in Europe at the end of the year and will make it to North America sometime in 2013.

Fiat provided some details on the new Fiat 500L:

The Geneva Motor Show is the occasion for the world premiere of the Fiat 500L, the new extension of the 500 range that in the wake of the Abarth and Cabrio develops the brand's strategy that aims at expanding its offer by introducing a brand-new model able to satisfy different types of customers.

With the 'L', the 500 grows in size to accommodate new experiences and needs once more. If the 500 is the super-compact car perfect for young people and the city, the Fiat 500L is the first car of the 500 family able to contain all of life's greatest emotions all together: children, friends, journeys. Every time great emotions become great experiences.

Produced at the Serbian plant in Kragujevac, the Fiat 500L will become available in Europe starting from the last quarter of 2012.

Made in Fiat
The 500L interprets and expresses the totally Fiat capability of conceiving and designing cars which are innovative in substance and in form. Substance turns into the modern equation of "space-efficient" that distinguishes all of the most innovative Fiats in history - from the 600 Multipla onwards.

Just as the 600 Multipla was the forerunner of the concept of compact people carrier, the 500L is the new Fiat interpretation of the Simply More philosophy applied to the Multispace concept.

The 500L reformulates the category of compact cars for the modern family in an emotional vein by developing some of the 500's winning emotional elements in unprecedented forms. It is a perfect match between solutions to make life simpler, with the generosity of a passenger room which is a benchmark for the category.

The Fiat 500L states all of the taste of a made in Italy product with a distinguishing, specific and lively look.

The new model of the 500 range emerges from the conventional distinctions owing to its passenger space typical of an MPV, its presence on the road characteristic of a small SUV and its compactness and efficiency worthy of a B segment car.

By following this novel recipe, the Fiat 500L puts together characteristics peculiar to different classes to offer a concept of distinctive and versatile first car that is an alternative to the traditional saloons of the B and C segments.

Design
The 500L was designed by the Centro Stile Fiat which drew inspiration from the cab forward concept, the modern reinterpretation of a car concept designed to achieve better external visibility and a large amount of internal light. This is where 'seamless' glazing comes into being. It runs all around the car to improve the sense of command of the road and to make parking manoeuvres easier. The glass roof - the largest in its category - also floods the 500L passenger compartment with plenty of light.

Bright inside, colourful outside. With more than 30 shades of colour, the 500L will offer the widest range of colours of the segment, combined with the specific colours of white, grey and black for the alloy wheels.

The interiors of the 500L are also distinguished in terms of variety and extent of solutions available to the customer. From the finish of the body-coloured dashboard that calls to mind the atmospheres and treatments typical of the 500 to the availability of soft-to-the-touch upholsteries with elegant finishes.

To then arrive at tasteful styling details like the sophisticated design of the steering wheel, the crystal-clear lighting of the dashboard, and the practical and original shapes of the handbrake and gear lever.

Space
The level of comfort that the new 500L offers will be a benchmark owing to the roominess of its interior, the best in its category in relation to the external dimensions.

The driver and passengers of a Fiat 500L will find many handy compartments on board that can hold all objects of everyday life: from remote controls and mobile phones to bottles of water and an umbrella.

Driving pleasure and on-board comfort will be helped by the multifunctionality of the seats, which can be adjusted on every axis of movement using 8 different modes.

The Fiat 500L will have a full range of accessories in perfect 500 style: customised graphics, chrome-plating and fragrance diffusers. And there are also ski roof bars and bicycle holder for the sportier at heart.

The size package of the new Fiat 500L - 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high - makes it an ideal living space for sitting and looking out onto the world. Perhaps for a great journey, made comfortable by a boot with a capacity of almost 400 litres that is able to hold up to 5 suitcases or a full-size push chair.

Technology
The 500L will offer outstanding performance matched with reference efficiency and fuel consumption levels. Standing out amongst the petrol engines is the new 0.9-litre TwinAir, the new generation of the multi-award-winning Fiat two-cylinder engine that set the world fuel consumption and emissions record thanks to its low displacement and inclusion of a high-efficiency turbocharger.

The emissions level will set the record amongst petrol engines for the MPV category in this latest evolution as well. A 1.4 petrol engine and a MultiJet 1.3 diesel engine will also be available as of the launch date, in addition to the TwinAir.

The 500L will represent the best of Fiat Air Technologies owing to its reduced fuel consumption and emissions and enhanced driving pleasure. Not just efficient engines, but advanced technologies as well. One of these is the innovative and multi-award-winning eco:Drive application. It provides customised driving advice for cutting fuel consumption and emissions, and for the first time will be available in the live version. This means that the 500L will offer a virtual personal trainer able to analyse your driving style in real time so you can improve it based on the actual parameters of use.

Fiat's "human-friendly" technology is also the hallmark of the passenger compartment thanks to its state-of-the-art features. These include the unique characteristics of the new touchscreen interface, that for the first time integrates all of the key functions of the car (navigation system, infotainment, self-diagnosis) through an easy and intuitive user experience.

The large touchscreen with built-in navigation system makes the hardware advanced for the category: 5 inches that make it a small tablet. The USB connections, Bluetooth and AUX-IN let you make calls hands-free, listen to received SMS messages and your favourite music through the most popular smartphones and MP3 players. Controls on the steering wheel and voice recognition make all of this possible, distraction-free.

What's more, the 500L will integrate all of the most modern digital applications. The most popular apps on the car's touchscreen provide access to social networking sites, news channels and all web content, starting from Internet streaming radio so you can listen to your favourite digital channels.

The dedicated software applications will also be particularly advanced. In addition to the previously mentioned eco:Drive Live, the 500L will also have the exclusive Fiat application called my:Car available. It will be able to diagnose, record and certify your car's history and state of maintenance at any time.

Source: Fiat SpA

Fiat 500 Abarth Racing: Onboard

2012-02-17T13:36:00.001-05:00

Track ready. That is what the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is all about. In Europe, the Fiat 500 Abarth is well known to all the race circuits. Small but wicked! Here are a few videos to give you an idea of what is in store for you - and the competition - when you get your 500 Abarth!

At Autodromo Vallelunga. Taking on a pair of Audis with 2 liter Turbos

Fiat 500 Abarth on Nurburgring. Watch it take out a 200 HP Abarth, a Suburu, plus a bunch of other hot cars. This car is smoking!

At the legendary Imola racetrack

Abarth Driving Experience
Track day with a new Fiat 500 Abarth. What could be better? How about knowing how to use all the capabilities of this performance car? Fiat has you covered on that front, because included in the price of each 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is professional driving instruction to get the most out of the 500 Abarth. That's right, Fiat will give new owners of a 500 Abarth the opportunity to attend the Richard Petty Driving Experience. That is an entire day of high performance driver training by professional instructors, in a safe and structured environment.

Now, how cool is that!

Marchettino's YouTube Channel
NickS2kItaly's YouTube Channel

Fiat 500 Wins Travel + Leisure's Annual Design Award

2012-02-16T01:23:00.000-05:00

The Fiat 500 has done it again! In what by now can be considered an endless stream of awards, the Fiat 500 has just added another to its trophy case. This time it has been named “Best Car” in Travel + Leisure’s Annual Design Awards.

The new Fiat 500 has accumulated more than 17 U.S. and 80 international awards since its debut, recognizing its design, engineering, driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.

Fiat press release below:

New 2012 Fiat 500 Named “Best Car” in Travel + Leisure’s Annual Design Awards Issue

Travel + Leisure Design Awards recognize thoughtful design that improve the travel experience
New 2012 Fiat 500 models deliver contemporary Italian styling, beautiful craftsmanship and city-friendly proportions combined with intelligent adaptations for American roads.
New 1.4-liter engine with state-of-the-art MultiAir® technology, invented and patented by FIAT, delivers power, fuel efficiency and refinement
Starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $15,500

February 15, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Known for providing its readers with insight into the authentic, the innovative and the irresistible, Travel + Leisure named the new 2012 Fiat 500 “Best Car” in its eighth annual “Travel + Leisure Design Awards.” The 2012 Travel + Leisure Design Awards recognize new products, buildings and destinations that improve the travel experience through thoughtful design.

“The Design Awards jury applauded the Fiat 500 for its effortless combination of compact practicality with a real sense of style, speed, and fun,” said Luke Barr, News Director of Travel + Leisure.

The Fiat 500 will be featured in the March issue of Travel + Leisure – available on newsstands February 17 and is currently online at Travel+ Leisure Design Awards 2012. In addition, the Fiat 500 will be recognized at the Travel + Leisure Design Awards event on March 7 at Department in Berlin, Germany.

“We are extremely honored to win the ‘Best Car’ Design Award title from Travel + Leisure – as the 2012 Fiat 500 offers a unique combination of Italian design, driving fun and efficiency at an unbeatable value,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand North America. “In addition, our open-air Fiat 500 Cabrio, the exclusive 500 and 500c by Gucci models and the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth provide drivers with the best of Italian style and driving excitement.”

Source: Chrysler Media

Vote for the Fiat 500 Abarth Seduction Ad in YouTube Competition

2012-02-12T00:02:00.004-05:00

The Fiat 500 Abarth "Seduction" spot has been entered in YouTube’s Ad Blitz 2012 competition! Show the world your good taste, grab the link below and vote for it!

This is big, so we need EVERYBODY to vote. The deadline is Monday, February 13 at 11:59PM EST, but vote now and tell your friends.

Important: To find the ad; click "sort by advertiser" on the right side, select Chrysler, the Abarth thumbnail and then vote thumbs up.

Vote for the Fiat 500 Abarth Superbowl ad here

How Fiat MultiAir Technology Works

2012-02-10T10:38:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder how 100HP feels like a lot more? Watch the video and see...

One of the striking characteristics about the Fiat 500 is it's fun to drive. Ask any Fiat 500 owner and they'll comment on the lively acceleration and strong pulling power from surprisingly low rpm, making the car seem like it has a larger engine.

This is all achieved through the use of Fiat MultiAir, the innovative technology created by Fiat Powertrain Technologies. MutiAir has been described as 'variable valve timing on steroids.'

MultiAir electo-hydraulic valve operation allows engineers to tailor valve openings to optimize drivability while at the same time maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing exhaust emissions.

Fiat MultiAir allows the Fiat 500 engine to be tuned for good midrange torque, particularly at part throttle operation, increasing the fun to drive factor. That is why the car always feels 'punchy' and ready to go.

Images: Chrysler LLC

Fiat 500 Abarth Super Bowl Ad Draws the Largest Online Traffic Increase

2012-02-08T12:25:00.000-05:00

The Fiat 500 Abarth "Seduction" Super Bowl Ad scored the largest online traffic increase according to Edmunds.com. Edmunds measured the impact of each Super Bowl car ad on its auto site, and found traffic to the Fiat 500 page increases 138 percent. Fiat500USA.com also had a huge spike of 10,000 pageviews during that one hour alone. Site traffic here is up an average of 70% since the ad aired.

The Fiat 500 Abarth ad kicks off the year on a high note. This year will be an exciting year for Fiat 500 fans with the launch of the Fiat 500 Abarth this spring, the unveiling of both the new Fiat 500L in Geneva next month and the Fiat 500 EV electic car towards the end of the year.

Images: Chrysler Media

Fiat 500 Sales for January Beat MINI Cooper Sales

2012-02-07T01:09:00.001-05:00

Fiat 500 sales figures are in for January, and they have once again beaten MINI Cooper sales. Last month, 1911 Fiat 500s were sold compared to 1710 MINI Cooper Hardtop and Convertibles sold. This is the fourth time Fiat beat MINI sales since last March, the first month the Fiat 500 went on sale. MINI figures are used because they are the closest competitor type and offer perspective to the sales figures posted.

July 2011 Sales
Fiat 3038
MINI 2753

August 2011 Sales
Fiat 3106
MINI 2003

September 2011 Sales
Fiat 2773
MINI 2331

January 2012 Sales
Fiat 1911
MINI 1710

Fiat sold 25,191 cars during the 10 months it was on sale last year. Taken by itself, this figure would be considered a respectable showing for the niche car that had only half of its 130 dealers open during most of that time. However, Fiat shot themselves in the foot with a prediction of selling 50,000 units during its first year. Where this figure came from will always be in question, but it put the 500 under the burden of not meeting its first year's sales forecast and has garnered the attention of those who look for a quick headline.

Follow this link here to read more about Fiat sales. Below is a video where Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat SpA gives some insight on Fiat 500 sales.

Fiat 500 sales forecast for 2012 is 25,000 - 35,000 cars, a much more realistic goal. Now with the dealer body fully up and running, a hugely successful Super Bowl ad, the launch of the new Fiat 500 Abarth coming this quarter and the Fiat 500 EV scheduled by year's end, 2012 promises to be an exciting year for the Fiat 500. Stick around!

Win a New Fiat 500 Abarth with the "Score a Scorpion" Contest

2012-02-06T12:17:00.001-05:00

You've seen the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth Super Bowl ad "Seduction", now here is your chance to win the car that caught the eye of more than 100 million viewers.

Fiat USA has a contest on Facebook running now until March 4, giving away 3 brand new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarths! The giveaway is called "Score a Scorpion", and is a fun contest where you follow clues to collect 'Scorpions" over the internet for your chance to win a new Fiat 500 Abarth, plus other cool prizes. Don't miss your chance to win!

Follow the link here to join the fun!

Official Rules

Fiat 500 Abarth Seduction Ad Translation

2012-02-05T21:13:00.002-05:00

FIAT 500 Abarth - 2012 Super Bowl Commercial - Seduction

The Fiat 500 Abarth is beautiful and exquisite - just like Catrinel Menghia in the ad. Here is what she is saying to you:

"What are you looking at? Uh!? What are you looking at?! Are you undressing me with your eyes? Poor guy… you can’t help it? Is your heart beating? Is your head spinning? Do you feel lost thinking that I could be yours forever?”

Translation courtesy of Giallo Edizione, member of
the Fiat 500 USA Forum

Fiat: The Things We Make, Make Us

2012-02-04T15:03:00.000-05:00

Fiat is running a TV ad in Italy that highlights the best traditions and values of Italian society and heritage. Along the lines of the award winning Chrysler "Made in Detroit" ad that debuted last year during the Superbowl, the Italian Fiat ad is a rallying cry to Italians to embrace who they are and remind the world what Italy is capable of.

“The things we make, make us”

For the launch of the new Panda, Fiat Automobiles chose a highly emotive 90 second spot which departs from the use of traditional advertising language in favor of a message that portrays Fiat's approach to the future and describes the Italy we like, an Italy driven by talent, passion, creativity and the desire to do things well.

Airing on Italian TV from January 22nd and on the web (including www.fiatpanda.it and www.fiat.it) from January 23rd, the spot is an event in its own right as it presents the product by talking about the people and values behind it. The choice to deliver a message that is full of symbolism is an important one. In the spot, the Fiat family is seen leading the way in a new era of growth and development in Italy and all Italians are called on to participate, with the same commitment and determination.

The spot is a response to the question: “What kind of Italy do we want to be?” Of course, there are many Italys in the collective imagination: a nation of art, invention and creative talent not to mention great industrial and technological enterprise. To dispel the quaint image of Italy and the negative stereotypes that are still often portrayed today, the spot shows powerful images of workers at the Pomigliano d’Arco plant where the new Fiat Panda is made.

These workers are symbolic of the Italy that never gives up, even in the most difficult moments, but rather has the will to take its future into its own hands with unquestionable dedication. They are proud and determined men and women who every day devote talent, passion and creativity and above all desire into making a product of the highest quality: the new Fiat Panda.

The images are accompanied by a narration that makes no reference to the product, brand or even to cars. The words draw viewers in and then capture their attention with Fiat's response to the initial question about the kind of Italy we want: “The things we make, make us”. Because what we do and the way we do it say everything about who we are, our vision of the world, and the type of people we want to be. That notion is further strengthened by the key message of the entire campaign – “This is the Italy we like” – which expresses appreciation for a nation that works and overcomes challenges, that doesn’t give up, but rather strives to do, to make, to achieve.

Fiat is the well-established leader in the city car segment in Europe with a unique know-how developed in European markets over the years: from the first 600 to the 500, from the 126 to the first Panda, from the Cinquecento to the Seicento, from the second generation Panda (2003) to the new 500 launched in 2007. Today, that legacy is embodied in the new Panda, the logical evolution of a car that in its 31 years has always been synonymous with Italian style and ingenuity, bursting with a rational yet emotional appeal that has won over more than 16 million drivers of different tastes, ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

An established icon of Italian design and know-how, the objective of the new Panda was to confirm Fiat's undisputed leadership in the city car segment. To achieve that, Fiat Group Automobiles focused on attaining the highest levels of quality throughout the development and production process. Naturally, such a project could not be implemented at a plant that wasn't equally advanced and adapted to the needs of the new Panda and that is why the new model is being made at the Pomigliano d’Arco plant near Naples. The plant has been completely retooled and upgraded with new bodywelding and assembly technologies, as well as a brand new Quality Center, making it not only the most advanced Fiat facility, but also among the most advanced in the world.

Olivier François, head of the Fiat brand, said: “The new Panda is a symbol of Fiat's know-how in the city car segment and this spot celebrates the return of production to Italy of the icon of Italian city cars : the Panda, the most sold city car in Europe. The upgraded plant in Pomigliano has introduced a radical new approach to quality and the campaign tells the story of this special place, a place where an industrious Italy has been reborn. An Italy where a job well done is a matter of personal pride. A place where people’s desire to produce a car of the highest quality is stronger every day. A place where innovation, research and passion are alive, where the relaunch of an Italy that the entire world believes in has begun.”

The new campaign – which encompasses TV, press, billboards and web – was conceived and developed by the advertising agency Kube Libre, under the creative direction of Luciano Nardi. Shot in and around Naples, the TV spot was directed by Luca Maroni and produced by Movie Magic. The people appearing in the spot are actual workers at the plant who participated in the production with a great deal of enthusiasm. Finally, the images and narration are accompanied by a soundtrack composed by Flavio Ibba.

Following is the text of the spot for the new Fiat Panda.
“New Fiat Panda. This is the Italy we like.
How many types of Italy are there?
A nation of art?
A nation of great invention?
A nation of creative talent?
A nation of quaint images?
A nation of youth in search of a better future?
Or a nation capable of great industrial and technological enterprise?
We can choose which Italy to be.
It’s time to decide whether we want to be ourselves
or to be what others think we are.
Now is the moment to start afresh
To start the only way we know how: with our work
and rise to the occasion
Because, everyday, in Italy,
there is someone who wakes up
and puts their talent,
passion,
creativity,
and above all desire
into doing something well.
The things we make, make us

Fiat Press
Turin, 20 January 2012

Breaking News: Fiat 500L Official Images Revealed!

2012-02-02T09:10:00.002-05:00

Here are the first official pictures of the new Fiat 500L. The Fiat 500L will be unveiled next month at the Geneva International Motor Show and will eventually make its way to the US as a 2013 model.

Here are the preliminary details below, courtesy of Fiat SpA:

Fiat 500L: world preview at the Geneva Motor Show

The new model in the 500 range
In Europe in the last quarter of 2012

Fiat presents the first official images of the 500L, the new model which will have its world preview at the International Geneva Motor Show on 6 March this year.

500L - the L stands for ‘Large’ - is the new addition to the 500 range, which, following the Abarth and Cabrio versions, furthers the brand’s strategy, with the aim of extending its offer by introducing models in a position to satisfy different types of customers.

With the ‘L’, the 500 expands and grows together with customers, to accommodate new experiences and needs once more.

With 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, the new Fiat model defies the conventional distinctions between the various segments, combining the typical characteristics of different categories in order to create a distinctive alternative to the traditional B and C segments.

Fiat 600 Multipla 1955-1960

With the 500L, the Fiat brand demonstrates its creative spirit once more: a marriage of functionality and emotion, it features a 5-seater single-volume structure which is 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high. It is a further development of the concept of ‘cab forward’ introduced by Fiat with the 600 Multipla, a precursor to the concept of the compact people carrier.

Produced at the Fiat factory in Kragujevac, Serbia, 500L is a ‘first car’ for those who won’t settle for anything less than Italian style, the versatility that comes from a functional design and engine technology that sets the bar in terms of efficiency.

The Fiat 500L will be introduced to Europe in the last quarter of 2012, with an engine range which will initially comprise two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II) and the most advanced, state-of-the-art technology from Fiat Group Automobiles.

Turin 2 February 2012

Fiat 500 Abarth Walkaround

2012-02-01T11:49:00.000-05:00

The high performance Fiat 500 Abarth is about to hit the streets shortly. With nearly 60 percent more HP and 70 percent more torque than the regular Fiat 500, the Fiat 500 Abarth is becoming one of the 'big' performance car stories of 2012. Matt Davis, Head of Product Marketing for Fiat USA, gives a tour of just some of the features that will make the Fiat 500 Abarth so sought after.

New Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger Unveiled

2012-01-31T10:30:00.004-05:00

The Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger is a Fiat 500 customized with Mopar accessories. The Fiat 500 Stinger Stage 1 is a visual package that features blacked out lights, door handles and trim; body side moulding with stripes and roof graphics on the outside, plus 17 inch wheels in hyper black finish.

Inside, the seats are modified with Katzkin seat covers and a carbon fiber dash. The Fiat 500 Stinger Stage 2 is a performance package consisting of a Mopar cold air intake, cat back exhaust and drilled rotors.

Here are more details about the Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger, courtesy of Chrysler:

2012 Fiat 500 ‘Stinger’
Building on the Fiat 500’s “Hottest Sports Compact Car” award by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) this past November, the new Fiat 500 “Stinger” integrates two Mopar stage kits that deliver bold styling appointments and select high-performance parts from the Mopar catalog.

Adding even more style to the new 2012 Fiat 500 Sport, the Fiat 500 Stinger features Giallo (yellow) exterior paint combined with unique blackened exterior and interior appointments – all designed to amplify the hatchback’s athletic Italian styling.

Stage 1: athletic and purposeful styling enhancements
For a more aggressive appearance, the Fiat 500 Stinger’s signature “whiskers and logo” face and circular projector headlamps are finished in Black Chrome. Accenting the Giallo bodyside are exterior door handles and mirror caps finished in Black Chrome, while larger 17-inch by 7-inch Abarth Hyper Black aluminum wheels with wider 205/40 R 17 performance tires provide the hatchback with a menacing stance below. Tinted head and taillamps and license-plate brow, and Mopar’s vinyl bodyside and roof graphics in black checker add to the Fiat 500 Stinger’s serious look.

The interior of the Fiat 500 Stinger continues the duality of Giallo and black with Mopar’s Katzkin leather seats. Based on the Fiat 500 Sport’s athletic-styled seats, the 500 Stinger’s seats feature Alcantara seat centers sandwiched by smooth and Giallo black leather bolsters and Giallo accent stitching. Below, a Mopar carbon-fiber instrument panel decal provides this Cinquecento’s interior with a technical appearance. A Mopar shifter ball is finished in Gloss Black completes the appearance.

Stage 2: track-tested performance upgrades
Delivering factory-designed performance, Mopar’s new Stage 2 kit ensures that the Fiat 500 Stinger delivers improved power and braking capabilities to match its aggressive styling upgrades.

Mopar’s cold-air intake and free-flowing cat-back exhaust enable the Fiat 500 Stinger’s fuel-efficient 1.4-liter 16-valve MultiAir™ engine to deliver even more power and torque.

And to make sure this Cinquecento delivers track-ready brake performance, the Fiat 500 Stinger features performance brakes with cross-drilled rotors for additional surface-heat dissipation.

Be sure to check out your Fiat Studio for more information on Mopar accessories.

Images: Chrysler Media

Fiat 500 Takes Part in Mopar's 75th Anniversary Celebration

2012-01-31T00:02:00.002-05:00

Watch the live event today, Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST

Mopar is celebrating its 75th anniversary today and unveiling its Mopar 12 car, plus a few more cars it’ll have at the Chicago Auto Show. My sources say there will also be a Fiat 500 show car debuting!

During the live show, look for a special promotional code that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

Watch the live event today, Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST

Official invite:

MOPAR 75TH CELEBRATION EVENT
You've been a part of our rich history and contributed to our strength today. We invite you to take a powerful ride with us into a new and exciting future. Please join us for a 75th Anniversary Celebration and glimpse in our future.

Be a part of the entire event and watch the Web Broadcast live!

Event Highlights include:

Unveiling of the Mopar ‘12
View a collection of Past, Present and Future Vehicles
Special Events Announcements
Much more…

New Fiat 500 Show Car to be Unveiled at Mopar's 75th Anniversary!

2012-01-28T14:22:00.001-05:00

Fiat 500 Titanium show car from last year's SEMA Show

Heard from outside sources is Mopar will be unveiling four new show cars including a new Fiat 500 during its 75th Anniversary celebration Tuesday, January 31!

When you think about American performance cars, the name Mopar shines bright. From the legendary HEMI 'Cudas of the past to the modern racing Viper SRT10s and Challenger V10 Drag Paks, Mopar knows extreme performance. This year marks Mopar's 75th anniversary and they are celebrating in a big way. On Tuesday, January 31, there will be a live broadcast unveiling its latest creations including a new Fiat 500 show car!

You'd be forgiven if you asked what does Mopar have to do with the Fiat 500, because at first glance they don't seem to have anything in common, but the simple fact is Mopar supplies the parts and manages service to all the Fiat Studios in the nation. Probably more important, from an enthusiast's point of view, is that Mopar has also developed a full range of custom parts and accessories for the Fiat 500.

I'll be hosting the live unveiling here on the site Tuesday morning at 8:30 AM. Watch for a special promotion that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

Below is the official invite:

MOPAR 75TH CELEBRATION EVENT
You’ve been a part of our rich history and contributed to our strength today. We invite you to take a powerful ride with us into a new and exciting future. Please join us for a 75th Anniversary Celebration and glimpse in our future.

Be a part of the entire event and watch the Web Broadcast live Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST !

Event Highlights include:

Unveiling of the Mopar ‘12
View a collection of Past, Present and Future Vehicles
Special Events Announcements
Much more…

SPECIAL PROMOTION
Watch the Web Broadcast, for a chance to win a special 75th anniversary prize pack. During the broadcast, watch for a special promo code that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win. Winners will be randomly selected and will receive a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

New US Fiat Model Named

2012-01-27T11:17:00.000-05:00

The new larger Fiat that is coming to America next year will be called the Fiat 500L. Previously known by its codename the Fiat L0 or ElleZero, it is a larger car than the current Fiat 500.

The Fiat 500L will use a widened and US-compliant chassis based on the one used by the Fiat Punto and Alfa Romeo MiTo models. The revised platform will have 4 wheel drive capability.

In Europe, the car will be available in 5 or 7 seat versions, but the US will just see the 5 seat version. The length of the new Fiat 500L is reported to be approximately 161 inches long or about 22 inches longer than the Fiat 500.

Video montage of spy shots and illustrations

No images of the car have been released, but there are numerous design interpretations on the Internet. Styling has been described as being a cross between the Fiat 500 and the new Fiat Panda.

The car will make its public debut during the Geneva International Motor Show, March 8-18, 2012.

Read all the posts on the Fiat 500L or ElleZero here

Image: blogautomobile.fr

FIATRide Debuts Friday

2012-01-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

Fiat USA is continuing to bring the Fiat Experience to the public. The latest experiential event, called the FIATRide, will be held at the 2012 Washington Auto Show, (Jan. 26-Feb. 5). The unique indoor interactive event begins this Friday and will demonstrate the qualities that have made the Fiat 500 a worldwide phenomenon with nearly 800,000 cars sold worldwide.

Consumers will have a chance to experience the Fiat 500 while product specialists drive the participants over a variety of surfaces that demonstrate the 500's outstanding handling, agility, ride comfort and maneuverability.

The FIATRide is an indoor event and features the Fiat 500 in the Hatchback and Cabrio versions.

FIATRide Track location and hours include:

2012 Washington Auto Show
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Mount Vernon Place Northwest
Washington, D.C. 20001

Friday, Jan. 27
Noon – 10 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 29
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 30 – Thursday, Feb. 2
Noon – 9 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 3
Noon – 10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 4
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 5
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Source:Chrysler Media

Fiat 500 Abarth Price Details

2012-01-23T00:02:00.004-05:00

Here are preliminary pricing* details for the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, including the prices of various options. This should hold you over until the official Abarth website gets their configurator online!

Base Price $22,000

Safety & Convenience Package $600
SiriusXM satellite radio with 1-year of included service; Single-zone automatic climate control with micron filter; Remote anti-theft alarm system

Leather Trim $1,000

Engine Block Heater    $50

TomTom Navigation w/Blue&Me    $400
TomTom 4.3" touchscreen portable navigation system unit that docks on top of the instrument panel and is integrated into the vehicle with controllability of the system through the vehicle's steering wheel mounted controls. Capable of displaying real-time traffic and weather reports; Blue&Me Handsfree Communication that allows Bluetooth enabled phones and USB-connected media players with iPod to be controlled through voice commands.

Smoker's Group    $30
Cigar lighter; Removable ash tray

Power Sunroof     $850

17" x 7.0" Forged Aluminum Gloss White Wheels     $1,000
17" x 7.0" forged aluminum gloss white wheels with 205/40R17 Pirelli P-Zero Nero black side wall 3 season tires

17" x 7.0" Forged Aluminum Hyper Black Wheels    $1,000
17" x 7.0" forged aluminum hyper black wheels with 205/40R17 Pirelli P-Zero Nero black side wall 3 season tires

Black Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripe     $350
Red Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripe     $350
White Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripes     $350

Stock Fiat 500 Abarth 16 inch wheels

Hawaii Additional Destination Charge $50

Destination Fee $700

Click here to go to the Official Fiat 500 Abarth Website

* Preliminary pricing subject to change
Images: Fiat USA

Fiat FreezeOut 2012 Event

2012-01-21T12:34:00.000-05:00

The 2012 Fiat FreezeOut will be held next Saturday, January 28. Beat the winter blues by hanging out with fellow Fiat enthusiasts and enjoy refreshments, music and cars. The event promises to be a great time. Here are the details:

The Delaware Valley Chapter of the Fiat Lancia Unlimited Club (FLU) will co-host the 'sometimes annual' FIAT FreezeOut. For 2012, we are being welcomed by FIAT of Maple Shade, NJ. They are located about 15 minutes from Philadelphia.

There will be food, beverages, and music. This is a good chance to see a lot of your old friends as well as an opportunity to make some new ones. Members and non-members are welcome to attend. The folks at FIAT of Maple Shade are making this a free event for everyone! Come out in the dead of winter with or without your FIAT. We'll gather about 5pm and continue until they kick us out! There might even be a few prizes!

Saturday, January 28, 2012
5PM until ???
FIAT of Maple Shade
587 West Route 38 Maple Shade, NJ 08052
www.fiatusaofsouthjersey.com
Please RSVP so that proper estimates can be given to the caterer. Contact Sherman Barton at shore208@comcast.net or by phone at 609-923-7426.

http://fludelaware.italiancarclub.com/

Fiat 500 Celebrates its Fans on Facebook

2012-01-20T08:55:00.002-05:00

The Fiat 500 is arguably the most popular car of the Fiat Group not only in Italy, but all over the world and recently hit a social media milestone. Its official Facebook page hit 200,000 likes. To celebrate, a movie was commissioned to thank all its fans.

The movie collects the adjectives and words that people have used to describe the Fiat 500 on its Facebook page.

Fiat says:
There are as many ways to go with the 500 as the ways you have defined on Facebook. 200.000 fans: 200.000 ways to be 500. Thank you all!

Visit the Fiat 500 Facebook Page

Fiat 500 Liberation Commercial

2012-01-19T10:18:00.000-05:00

A new Fiat 500 TV commercial called 'Liberation' debuted earlier this month at the 2012 Golden Globes Award Show. A sneak peak of this Fiat commercial was given to those who attended the unveiling of the Fiat 500 Abarth last November. Enjoy!

US Fiat ElleZero Confirmed

2012-01-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

Olivier Francois, Global Head of Fiat Brand, recently confirmed the 4 door Fiat MPV will indeed make its way to the US next year. The car, code name L0 or ElleZero, uses the updated chassis of the new Fiat Panda but stretched to accommodate up to 7 passengers. The above image is an artist's interpretation of the design, but appears to be the most accurate yet published.

The roomy 4 door MPV's length is approximately 161 or 169 inches, depending on whether it is a 5 or 7 seat version. This compares with 139 inches for the Fiat 500. The Fiat ElleZero will make its debut during the Geneva International Motor Show, March 8-18, 2012.

You can read more about the Fiat ElleZero here

Image:Autoexpress.com