Italian auto giant Fiat’s new strategy will split its European line-up in two categories namely a rational side and a functional side. The rational side will be best portrayed by the Panda family of vehicles, while the emotional side will keep the company’s roots intact with the 500 family. The company’s next set of launches will see new products added to both the categories catering to different segments in the market that will be modelled around the 500 and Panda monikers set to replace a range of current vehicles in Fiat’s portfolio.
On the emotional side, Fiat confirmed that the 500X that was caught on test last week will be launched later this year. Based on the Jeep Renegade platform, the 500X gets the iconic 500 styling coupled with raised height and SUV like proportions. The crossover will be replacing the Sedici in the European market and will cater to the market essentially led by the MINI Countryman. Along with the 500X, the company also conveyed a new ‘Specialty’ model (under wraps) will arrive in 2015 which is most likely to be co-developed with Mazda.
On the functional side, Fiat will introduce the Bravo replacement to be likely called the Panda XXL in 2015, while a new LCV derivative (hidden) was also shown to be a part of the family. The company will then launch an all new compact model in 2015, followed by hatchback and wagon body styles in 2016. The B-segment will also see some changes with a new model from the Panda family that will replace the Punto, followed by a crossover in 2017. A redesigned Panda is set to make its debut in 2018.
Fiat aims to increase its production from 1.3 million units in 2013 to 1.9 million units in 2018. The new strategy will be extended to the ground level as well, with the dealerships also being divided into two categories with one catering to the functional models, while the other catering to the emotional ones.
