13 May 09 13:40
Fiat's upcoming 500 Giardiniera could be a mini-SUV, according to Italiaspeed.com.
The new Giardiniera - reviving another name from Fiat's history - is to be built on a lengthened version of the 500's underpinnings, but it is now thought that it could have a four-wheel-drive system developed from that of the Fiat Panda 4x4. This will allow Fiat to position it as a rival for the Mini Crossover.
This Giardiniera is thought to be a three-door like the 500, however. A 'suicide door' layout with rear-hinged rear doors, as on the original, is unlikely, though details such as roof rails and an extensive retractable canvas sunroof (similar to that of the upcoming 500C) are probable. Fiat is thought to be planning production of around 30,000 a year, with launch pencilled in for 2010.
