Fiat will take the wraps off the 500X Compact Crossover SUV at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in September 2012. The Italian automaker has been expanding the 500 line-up and has already brought the 500L MPV to various countries. Next in line is the 500X Crossover, which is based on a widened Punto platform. The first images of the Fiat 500X show it to be a very good looking car. The muscular styling gives it massive appeal with the head lights and tail lights getting influenced from the 500 hatchback. The launch of these new vehicles on the 500 platform is Fiat’s attempt to broaden its portfolio into new segments.
Fiat will use the 500X to compete with the MINI Countryman. The vehicle will be offered in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive options. Fiat already sells a 4×4 version of the Panda and is expected to use a similar type of system for the 4-wheel drive 500X. The compact crossover will be a front-wheel drive in 2-wheel drive mode. The 5-seater Fiat 500X will offer decent boot space, which is expected to be around 375-liters. This will be enough for most buyers as it beats the luggage capacity of a hatchback. Fiat will also offer all the features it does on the 500 hatchback, which means the car will be very well equipped.
Fiat will use the same engines which do duty in the 500L MPV. The range of TwinAir, MultiAir and Multijet 2 engines offer enough grunt to keep the 500X move quikly. These engines are very frugal too and deliver exceptional mileage. At a length of slightly over 4-meters, the 500X is not too long (slightly longer than the Ford EcoSport) but the company can definitely fit it inside 4-metres. This will help Fiat India to take excise duty benefits when they launch the 500X here. The vehicle does look promising and can be a good alternative to both the EcoSport and Renault Duster.
