Fiat 500 for NA inches closer to reality...

[mkrishnan]

http://www.freep.com/article/200908...er-to-build-key-Fiat-minicar-at-Mexican-plant

Looks like the Toluca assembly plant (most likely) is going to build it.

Chrysler Group LLC, now being run by Italian automaker Fiat Group SpA, is planning to build the Fiat 500 minicar at a factory in Mexico, according to a person briefed on the company’s plans.

The automaker also is considering building a compact car in the U.S. that could be larger than the 500, according to the person, who did not want to be identified because the plans have not been made public.

Chrysler spokesman Gualberto Ranieri declined to comment today. But news of the Fiat 500 decision disappointed several members of the United Auto Workers who had hoped that the minicar would be made at a U.S. factory because of UAW cost-saving concessions and the fact that Chrysler has received $15.5 billion in U.S. government aid.

Nothing juicy yet, though, like whether it will actually carry a Fiat badge (I don't think I'd touch it with Chrysler or Dodge branding) or whether it would have a diesel option in NA or anything interesting like that.

 

[Counterfit]

Forget the other trim levels, just give us the Abarth.

 

[LouisBlack]

My parents should be getting their Fiat 500 convertible delivered in the next few days. I'm quite looking forward to the next time I go and visit them as I've heard they are really fun to drive.

I'm glad that Americans are looking forward to getting the car over there. Europeans have been driving small, economical cars for years and it's nice to see Americans shying away from the ridiculously huge and polluting cars that are usually associated with them.