Punto-based Fiat 500X will visit the Paris Motor Show

The Fiat 500X was teased by Fiat during a media assembly earlier this year, so this update is not exactly shocking. Fiat is working on the Punto platform to release several new models including an MUV and an SUV, under the 500 umbrella.

The Fiat 500X shown here is a rival to the MINI Countryman, and shall be offered in 2WD and 4WD layout.

The 500X enters a new territory but with its masculine looks (check out the chunky cladding around the wheel arches, the beefed up ride height and the aggressive bumpers) it has been tasked with appealing to not just to the fairer sex. The 500 traditionally has a female fan following.

The 500X will be about the same size as the 500L MPV, measuring a little over four meters long and have about 400 liters of boot space.  The 500X will share 4WD technology with the Panda 4x4, that uses a simple hydraulic clutch system, fitted ahead of its rear differential, and turns the rear wheels when the grip is lost at the front.

Powertrain options have not been detailed, but Auto Express expects the base model to use a 93bhp 1.4-litre TwinAir petrol or the 104bhp 1.0-litre two-cylinder. Multijet diesel engines will not miss out.

At the Paris Motor Show in late September, Fiat will bring an almost production-ready Fiat 500X.

[Source - AutoExpress.co.uk]