Fiat is in full recovery mode. If we tend to see it through a European prism, we forget that it's also a global brand, with strong roots in Latin America, present in several North African countries, and now determined to harmonize its strategy on a global scale.
Under the leadership of brand CEO Olivier François, Fiat has set a clear course: once again set the standard for accessible cars, while launching "global" models, i.e. designed to suit all markets. A major challenge, given that current product ranges differ greatly between Latin America and Europe.
This desire for unification includes a common platform (Smart Car) and an adaptation of powertrains by region. In Latin America, bioethanol-compatible Firefly engines will remain the norm, while in Europe and North Africa, Fiat will rely on EB2 1.2L hybrid blocks and 100 % electric versions.
2025
The year 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the turning points in this new strategy. Two major models are in the starting blocks: the Fiat Giga-Panda (code F2U), expected to be a family SUV with an assertive look, and the Fiat Fastback (code F2X), which could take on the DNA of the Brazilian SUV coupe already known by that name. It's not clear which will be unveiled first (the latest information points to the Fastback), but the two could be presented simultaneously or within a few months of each other.
Another new feature is confirmed: the return of the Fiat 500 hybrid, scheduled for late 2025. This eagerly-awaited model will boost production at the Mirafiori plant.
2026 – 2027
In 2026, the F2U (Giga-Panda) and F2X (Fastback) models will be launched. Then, at the crossroads between 2026 and 2027, an advanced electric Fiat 500 will make its appearance, with a new-generation battery, more powerful and affordable.
But that's not all: in 2027, another groundbreaking vehicle, heralded as an "innovative solutionis also due to make its appearance before the end of the year. According to the first official illustrations, it could be a pickup with an original style, designed to be transformed into a camper.
2028 – 2029
Fewer new products are planned for 2028 and 2029, but that doesn't mean there'll be no movement. These two years could see the arrival of updates, notably for the Fiat 600 launched in 2023, and for the Grande Panda. These models will then reach mid-career and could benefit from a restyling or technical update.
2030
Fiat is already looking ahead to 2030. Stellantis has announced the production of two of the brand's flagship models at its Mirafiori and Pomigliano d'Arco plants: future generations of the Fiat 500 and Fiat Panda. This choice confirms the importance of these models in the Fiat range and their roots in Italy.
A dynamic but not risk-free recovery
Fiat's calendar looks set to be very full. These numerous new products should give the brand a boost in Europe. But it's in Latin America that caution is called for. Fiat is currently performing very well there, thanks to models that are well adapted to local conditions. Each new launch will therefore have to strike the right balance to achieve at least the same performance, if not better.
| Year | Car(s) |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Fiat 600 |
| 2024 | Fiat Grande Panda (F1H) |
| 2025 | Fiat 500 hybrid, Fiat Giga-Panda (F2U) |
| 2026 | Fiat Fastbak (F2X) |
| 2027 | Fiat 500 electric (new battery), Fiat Pick-up/Camper |
| 2028 | Fiat 600 restyling ? |
| 2029 | Fiat Grande Panda restyling ? |
| 2030 | New Fiat Panda, New electric Fiat 500 |
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The 600's update seems far too late to me, and we need to react now to the model's lack of competitiveness in electric drive. It lacks a net 58kWh battery to make it versatile (it's the ID.3's competitor) and a newer, better-equipped chip to properly drive Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which regularly disconnect, better sign reading, "one pedal" driving and OTA software updates. The quality of finishes also needs to be reviewed to compete with small Chinese SUVs that don't skimp on foamed plastic.
Such a great engine manufacturer... that will base 3/4 of its models on platforms with PSA engines that almost nobody wants...