Dodge to receive first Fiat-based car in late 2011, says Sergio Marchionne
By Andrew, 21 Oct, 2010. 0 Comments
2010 Dodge Caliber
According to Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne, it appears that the first brand to receive a product based on Fiat’s Compact Wide architecture will be Dodge. The current version of the Caliber compact hatchback is the smallest model in the Dodge lineup, and it will continue in its current form until mid-2012. The new Dodge compact sedan is expected to make its debut by the end of 2011. According to Marchionne this model will also receive a high-mileage version capable to deliver a 40 mpg.
“The new architecture, which debuted (in Europe) with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta (compact hatchback), is the most advanced mass-produced car Fiat has ever had, and at Chrysler, Dodge will use it first,” Marchionne told analysts on a conference call today.
Apparently, building a Chrysler model in the United States that is capable to deliver 40 mpg, is Fiat’s second of three milestones that the Italian manufacturer must reach in order to increase its stake in Chrysler from 20 percent to 35 percent. Chrysler will also begin the production of Fiat’s 1.4-liter FIRE MultiAir engine in Dundee, Mich. The first car to use this engine will be the Fiat 500 minicar which will go on sale in the United States next year, in January. [via autonews - sub. required]
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