Could Jeep introduce new model based on Fiat Panda Cross?
When Chrysler and Fiat announced that they were planning to join forces to better attack the worldwide auto market, the first question on all of our minds was which vehicles from Fiat the American side would import to the States? Much of the attention was focused on the little Fiat 500, and deservedly so. Small cars like the smart fortwo and MINI Cooper have proven that Americans will buy little machines as long as they are stylish, loaded with features and fun to drive.
Another vehicle that many enthusiasts are keenly interested in is the Fiat Panda, especially in its jacked-up off-road Cross trim. The overactive internet rumormill is now working on the idea that there's a possibility that the Panda Cross may make it Stateside wearing a Jeep badge. As long as we're dreaming, how 'bout throwing in the little 1.3L turbocharged diesel engine that powers it in Europe?
Chrysler's viability plan did include the introduction of a new Jeep in 2011, and the timing would be perfect to help the SUV maker meet looming fuel economy requirements. Before any of that can happen, though, the automaker has until the end of the month to prove it can survive as a viable company that's capable of repaying taxpayer-funded loans.
[Source: Motor Authority]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Brn 5:32PM (3/24/2009)
Off road? The beach maybe.
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Mattias 2:11AM (3/25/2009)
This car is very popular as a postal delivery vehicle in the french and swiss alps, so it can't be that bad, huh?
Yikes 5:40PM (3/24/2009)
Very cool
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Mark 6:24PM (3/24/2009)
This car is very popular here in Italy and it is a fantastic off-roader
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JDred 7:28PM (3/24/2009)
Very nice, Jeep or Fiat they have my interest!
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alan 11:58PM (3/24/2009)
I doubt it we'd be getting the one pictured. There's a new Panda due in 2011, and from what I've been reading, it's supposed to be much rounder. Do a search; you'll definitely find something. I agree though, I'd love to see it come here with the turbodiesel. Thankfully my current car has quite a bit of life left in it.
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Hank 7:51AM (3/25/2009)
Before too many offer knee-jerk reactions about how this is a bad idea, it might do well to see the Fifth Gear (British auto show) comparison to the Range Rover. It's a pretty impressive little ute.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAg4DdXAp7Y
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oldraven 10:03AM (3/25/2009)
Well, considering my opinion of the FWD Jeep Compass/Patriot, this should stay a Fiat.
There should never have been a FWD Jeep.... ever.
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fred schumacher 10:27AM (3/25/2009)
Considering the problem of US air quality regs for diesels, if Chrysler brings the Panda, they should do it with the Multiair gas engines. For the Panda, the two-cylinder 900 cc version would be sufficient. The auto horsepower race has really distorted our view of how much power we need. I drove a 5-speed 100 hp. Dodge minivan for years and never felt like I didn't have enough power, even when loaded. Of course, that was the 2.5 liter engine, which has good low-end torque.
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Darin 11:58AM (3/25/2009)
Oooooh that is nice. 86 the Liberty and "bring it". This could be the one, the replacement for my beloved Sportage ('95 280k). Pssst Jeep....bulid it on a frame.
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