Fiat 500
If you haven't heard by now, Fiat's little superstar -- the successful 500 -- could be on the fast track to U.S. Chrysler dealerships courtesy of an as yet-to-be-finalized partnership between the Italian giant and American automaker.
Assuming the small city car does get the green light (and we hope it does) and arrives by our estimated 2010 calendar year, the 500 reportedly would need only a new front-bumper beam, as well as a revised front fascia to meet U.S. safety regulations. It'll likely not be sold to Canadian customers due to that country's more stringent turn-signal safety requirements. With the homologation all said and done, rumor has it the hatch will come with a 1.4L, 100-hp four-cylinder engine that'll put it in direct contention with the base, 118-hp Mini Cooper.
Still no word on whether Abarth -- otherwise known as Fiat's performance arm -- will ship over its more powerful edition for customers itching to go a bit faster. Regardless, don't be surprised to see an Abarth-branded sport package joining the standard car. It's safe to assume the 500's convertible version will be included in the American market fun sometime after the hatch's U.S. debut year as well.
Bottom Line: Poised for future American success -- if it gets here
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