Chrysler to Bring 7 Fiat Models in the US

Fiat Panda is one of the models to be sold in the US by Chrysler

The short story so far: Fiat and Chrysler announced a so-called global strategic partnership and the American automaker confirmed that it plans to bring several models designed by the Italian company in the United States. Recent speculation claimed Fiat 500 is set to arrive in the North American market by 2010 but, according to Autonews, Chrysler plans to sell no less than 7 models.

In short terms, Chrysler will rely on four plants, including a micro-car and a mid-size sedan, with all models expected to be produced by Chrysler's local facilities. Fiat 500 will be indeed one of the models to be sold in the US, followed by a five-door hatchback based on Fiat Panda. However, this particular car is likely to be rebadged and sold as a Chrysler or Dodge model.

The Fiat Grande Punto and the newly-launched MiTo will be also launched by Chrysler in the United States. In addition, the American automaker is also interested in launching two of the small-displacement engines Fiat used in the European market, namely the 1.4- and the 1.8-liter four cylinder units. This would allow Chrysler to concentrate on fuel-efficient models, just how the United States government requested the local automakers.

Beside all of these, Chrysler would also seek for Compass and Avenger replacements, but there's not yet clear which would be the Fiat models supposed to take the two models' places in Chrysler's lineup. A potential solution would be Alfa Romeo 147 but, according to Autonews, a slightly modified model may be launched under a different name.

Even though it looks like Fiat signed the deal to help the struggling Chrysler, the Italian company will also benefit from the deal. According to Autoblog, Fiat will be able to use Chrysler's Phoenix V6 in its own product lineup plus it will sell the Dodge Journey and Dakota in South America.