The Fiat has confirmed the Viaggio, a Chinese sedan that is be based on the Dodge Dart will also be arriving in two new body styles. It was already in news that a hatchback based on the same was due to arrive at the Auto Shanghai 2013 but it didn’t appear.
But for now there is a new development, according to vice president of Guangzhou Fiat, Mr. Jiang Ping the hatchback version of the Viaggio will be making its way in the last quarter of 2013. However there is a leaked sketch that can give us an idea about how it may look like.
According to Fiat’s Mike Manley the new Viaggio will be showcased at the Guangzhou Auto Show this year and the production of the vehicle will commence from late 2013 or by early 2014. Viaggio hatch can be the probable model that Manley has described in his words.
The Viaggio hatchback will be competing directly against the Chevrolet Cruz hatchback. Other than the hatchback there is also a crossover SUV planned that will be based on the CUSW platform of Viaggio. The details are still not quite clear but one thing is sure that the vehicle will be making its debut by next year.
It is hoped that both the hatch and the compact SUV will be hiring the same 1.4 Litre turbocharged petrol engine from Viaggio sedan. The engine is available in two tunes; one with 120 bhp and another with 150 bhp. The engine will be coupled with the 5 speed manual or a dual clutch automatic gearbox that will be transmitting the power.
Compact SUVs are quite popular in Indian market and it could be a great addition to Fiat’s product portfolio in India if Fiat ever decides to bring it in.