The Fiat 500 has been a hit in Europe but sales in the US have been disappointing. In an effort to expose the brand to a wider audience, Fiat plans to expand its domestic lineup. Looks like the next model to roll into dealerships will be a wagon version of the 500.
Fiat's new five-door will first meet its public at the Geneva Auto Show in March. Of course, in following this kind of expansion, Fiat is taking a page out of Mini's playbook; size-wize, the upcoming wagon is expected to echo the Mini Countryman. Fiat hasn't confirmed a name yet, but the model could very well carry the 500 badge.
What do you think? Will a wagon help Fiat build its US audience?
Warren Clarke, Automotive Content Editor
firstwagon says:
07:01 PM, 01/18/12
While I agree a roomier car will increase sales I see no reason to make a 500 wagon. Just bring over some more of Fiats line up. Unlike Mini Fiat is not a one trick company, they have lots of cars for sale.
Here's one I'd like to see...
http://www.fiat.co.uk/showroom/fiat-qubo/#showroom/qubo
or to compete with the clubman....
http://www.fiat.co.uk/showroom/fiat-panda/#showroom/panda
hybris says:
07:43 PM, 01/18/12
I think the name for the wagon should be: Fiat 500 Magnum or Fiat 500 Magnum Wagon.
_feloniousmonk says:
07:51 PM, 01/18/12
Probably the main thing keeping the 500 out of garages in North America (besides it not being a MINI) is the lack of space/practicality. I think a wagon will help sales so long as it retains its cute looks and tidy dimensions.
to626n says:
02:06 AM, 01/19/12
A 500 wagon might not be a bad idea, just don't make it tall and narrow. It needs to look sleek. The wagon would also need a more powerful engine, which is one of the reasons the 500 isn't doing so well.
throwback says:
06:45 AM, 01/19/12
Why not just bring over the new Panda?
kain77 says:
06:47 AM, 01/19/12
I think in a fickle auto market where brand and perceived quality still carries weight, Fiat USA is on life support: small dealer network + one niche model + atrocious marketing (J.Lo commercials effectively killed half of whatever potential buying pool there once was)
First impressions mean A LOT in resurrecting a brand here. MINI got it right... Fiat USA, not so much.
hermperez says:
08:19 AM, 01/19/12
The 500 is a Panda.
ed124c says:
10:33 AM, 01/19/12
More power, more space= not a 500. And if they blow it, bye-bye FIAT.
It is hard to believe that this curent 500 was significantly upgraded for North America. What kind of a crappy version do they have in Europe?