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Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Alfa Romeo 4C Video Reviews


Alfa Romeo 4C Slalom

Now that the Alfa Romeo 4C has arrived at dealership showrooms a whole new generation of enthusiasts is being introduced to the legendary marque. These Alfa Romeo 4C reviews from well-known road testers give you a taste of what the 4C is all about. After you watch, follow the links below to learn more.



"That makes the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C a small-scale exotic for a fraction of the price; truly a unique experience. It’s not a race car, and it’s not a poseur mobile. It’s a car designed with one thing in mind, driving!" - John Davis, Motorweek



"... as a pure driver’s car, the 4C provides everything you could want; rapid responsiveness, the awesomeness that is the sports exhaust and the go-cart-like handling of a lightweight, mid-engine car without power steering. It is one of the most enjoyable cars I’ve ever driven." - Steve Hammes, TestDriveNow.com





"The 4C's bullet points are an enthusiasts dream list." - Carlos Lago, Motortrend


Read more:

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Poll: Fiat 500X Trekking or 500X Street?

Fiat 500X Lounge and Trekking Plus

There will be two versions of the Fiat 500X crossover available when the model shows up at Fiat Studios next spring. One will be the adventurous Trekking model, the other the sophisticated looking Street version. Both are well equipped and available in either front-wheel or four-wheel drive. The question is which version are you leaning towards?


Fiat 500X Trekking Plus

Fiat 500X Trekking models have rugged looking graphite and body colored front and rear fascia and unique trim that emphasize its sporty, outdoors nature.


Fiat 500X Lounge

Fiat 500X Street versions encompass Pop, Easy, and Lounge models and show off the sophisticated side of the 500X. Elegant trim and stylish interiors are its hallmarks.

Fiat 500X Trekking Dashboard
Fiat 500X Trekking Dashboard

Fiat 500X Lounge Dashboard
Fiat 500X Lounge Dashboard


Whichever model 500X you choose, you get a car filled with Italian style and high levels of standard equipment. Take a moment to review all the features and then vote for your favorite at the top of the page. Make sure you tell us why on the Fiat 500X USA Forum!




Read more:

Fiat 500X Marketing Discussed

Fiat 500X Detailed Images

Fiat 500X Safety Features

Fiat 500X Full Features and Options

Fiat 500X Overview Video

Fiat 500X Design Explained

Fiat 500X Photo Album

2016 Fiat 500X Full Specifications

2016 Fiat 500X Engineering

2016 Fiat 500X Overview and Design

Monday, December 22, 2014

Fiat 500X Marketing Discussed

Matt Davis, Head of Product Marketing for Fiat USA

Matt Davis, Head of Product Marketing for Fiat North America, was recently interviewed on the Autoline After Hours news show. Davis answers questions about the new Fiat 500X and tells us where the car fits into Fiat's plans and the marketplace. Davis also took questions from viewers on a variety of subjects including diesels, quality and if the Fiat Panda will make it to the United States.



After the video, give us your thoughts on the Fiat 500 USA Forum.


Fiat 500X Detailed Images

Fiat 500X Safety Features

Fiat 500X Full Features and Options

Fiat 500X Overview Video

Fiat 500X Design Explained

Fiat 500X Photo Album

2016 Fiat 500X Full Specifications

2016 Fiat 500X Engineering

2016 Fiat 500X Overview and Design




Watch Autoline TV

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Enter the Nordstrom Fiat Giveaway!


Fiat 500 1957 Edition

It's the holiday season and the time for giving. 'Tis better to give than receive or so the saying goes. Still, it wouldn't be terrible if someone gave you a new car, especially if it is a Fiat. Well, holiday dreams do come true, thanks to Nordstrom and Fiat! The upscale fashion retailer Nordstrom has teamed up with the Fiat brand to give away a brand new Fiat 500 1957 Edition in the Pop-in@NordstrumxFIAT sweepstakes running now until January 4, 2015. The award-winning Fiat 500 has all the charm of the original and is perfect for putting a smile on a face. Let it be yours! Click on the link below to go to the Pop-in@Nordstrom x FIAT Sweepstakes.* Good Luck!


Pop-in@Nordstrom x FIAT Sweepstakes

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open only to persons who are, as of Entry, 18 years of age or older; and legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 United States or D.C. Sweepstakes begins at 9am ET on November 21, 2014, and ends at 11:59pm ET on January 4, 2015. See Official Rules for details, including specific entry periods. Sponsored by Nordstrom, Inc. Your participation indicates your consent to be added to the Nordstrom email marketing list.


Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Fiat Gran Finale Sale Ending Soon

Fiat 500C Cabrio and 500 Hatch

Fiat is holding a year end clearance sale just in time for the holidays. The Fiat Gran Finale sale is your chance to get the Fiat you have always wanted at a fantastic deal. How good? We're talking discounts up to $6,000! But a Fiat 500 is more than just getting a deal, it is about owning an iconic piece of Italian design that brings enjoyment to your life.



Go to the Fiat USA website for details and make sure you give the Fiat Studios listed below a call to see what deals they have going on. Hurry because the sale and the cars won't be around for long!


Criswell FIAT of Gaithersburg, Maryland - 1-888-878-2488

FIAT of Austin, Texas - 1-877-463-7905

Palmen FIAT of Kenosha, Wisconsin - 1-888-379-0295

Benson FIAT, South Carolina - 1-888-380-1716

FIAT of Larchmont, New York - 1-888-405-2249

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Fiat 500X Detailed Images

2016 Fiat 500X Trekking Plus

The Fiat 500X that recently debuted at the LA Auto Show brings Italian design and world-class substance to the crossover segment. Representing the culmination of 2.5 million hours of engineering, 500,000 hours of lab testing and 5 million kilometers of on the road testing in the most extreme conditions, the Fiat 500X delivers unmatched personalization options and an unprecedented array of safety and security features.

Fiat 500X Drivetrain Options


Fiat 500X All-Wheel Drive System

Additionally, the Fiat 500X offers a powerful and capable drivetrain that includes a 2.4 Liter MultiAir 2 Tigershark engine, and a segment exclusive 9 speed ZF automatic gearbox available with three different traction systems - two-wheel drive, two-wheel drive with Traction Plus and a leading edge four-wheel drive system. The following images will better acquaint you with the Fiat 500X and just some of what it offers.

2016 Fiat 500X Lounge
There are two versions of the Fiat 500X - one has a sophisticated metropolitan look, the other is a sporty, athletic design. This Fiat 500X Lounge model has an emphasis on luxury and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

Fiat 500X Lounge Front
Another shot of the 500X lounge.

2016 Fiat 500 Trekking Plus
The 2016 Fiat 500X Trekking Plus. The Plus model has standard leather seats and 18 inch aluminum wheels with machined and painted pockets. This is the top of the range model.


Fiat 500X Trekking

The Fiat 500X Trekking is available in 12 colors including this tri-coat red, and the tri-coat yellow and matte bronze shown above. You can tell Trekking models by what Fiat calls a "Body color fascia with graphite and chrome “rugged design” accent."


Fiat 500X Trekking Dashboard

The Fiat 500X Trekking has a textured dashboard bezel.


Fiat 500X Lounge Dashboard

The dashboard on 500X Pop, Easy and Lounge models are normally finished in body color. This particular 500X has been customized by Mopar with a contrasting red dash panel that matches the red trim accents.


Fiat 500X Twin Glove Compartments

The interior of the 500X is designed to be a place you want to spend a lot of time in and is filled with plenty of storage space. There are two glove box compartments to stow the usual paraphernalia one accumulates during car ownership.


Fiat 500X Upper Glove Compartment

The upper glove box has a vent to keep your chocolates cool!

Fiat 500X Rear Seat

Rear seat of the Fiat 500X is stylish, roomy and can accommodate three...

Fiat 500X 60/40 Rear Seat

and is a 60/40 split design.

Fiat 500X Front Seats

The front seats of the Fiat 500X are broad and comfortable. Side bolstering is pronounced but not intrusive.


Fiat 500X Pasenger Seat Adjusters

Front passenger seats are six-way manually adjustable, including for height. Top lever folds the seat back forward for easy access to the rear.

Fiat 500X Front Pasenger Folded Forward

Front passenger seat of the 500X folded forward. Note the storage pockets on the seat back for rear seat passengers.

Fiat 500X Rear Seat View

With the front seat folded forward, the rear seat is accessible and...


Fiat 500X Rear Split Seat Folded
also allows the Fiat 500X to accommodate long trunk items. Perfect for trips to Home Depot!


Fiat 500X Rear Seat Folded Down

The 500X is versatile and has tremendous storage potential for large items.

Fiat 500X Rear Seat Folds Even

Another view of the rear seats folded down. Note the rear seats fold flush with the rear trunk floor.


Fiat 500X Trunk

The Fiat 500X has 18.5 cu ft of trunk room and expands up to 50.8 cu ft with the rear seats folded forward.

Fiat 500X Trunk Storage Compartment

Plus, an under trunk storage compartment.

Fiat 500X 8-way Power Driver's Seat

The standard driver's seat of the 500X is six-way manually adjustable, including height. An eight-way power seat including four-way power lumbar power support is available as part of a package.

Fiat 500X Driver Seat

Another view of the driver seat area. The steering column tilts and telescopes and guarantees an excellent driving position.

Fiat 500X Headlight Switch

Automatic headlamps are standard on Trekking and Lounge models. Automatic highbeam headlamps are an additional option available on these two models.


Fiat 500X Leather Steering Wheel

A leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls is standard on all models except the Pop. Trip computer controls are steering wheel mounted on all versions. Additionally, a heated steering wheel is standard on the Lounge and Trekking Plus and part of an optional package on 500X Easy and Trekking models.


Fiat 500X Starter Button

"Keyless Enter and Go" includes keyless start and is standard on all 500X models except the Pop.


Fiat 500X Trekking Dashboard

Navigation and radio screen is prominently displayed so the driver doesn't have to take their eyes off the road.

Fiat 500X HVAC Controls
HVAC controls are shared with the Jeep Renegade. There are AUX and USB inputs for the stereo.  The SD card reader that was standard on European models was omitted from the North American 500X.

Fiat 500X Center Console

Center console houses the electric parking brake, ubiquitous cup holders, auto trans shifter and Dynamic Driving Mode selector.   Forward of the shifter is a storage compartment complete with an electric power outlet just visible in the corner.

Fiat 500X Driving Dynamic Selector Dial

The Driving Dynamic Selector allows driver to chose between three different settings:

  • Auto: The basic mode calibrated for everyday driving and designed to ensure optimal fuel efficiency, low emissions and driving comfort. This is achieved with a smoother engine calibration, higher servo assistance on steering and a shift point optimized for low CO2 emissions.
  • Sport: The engine calibration converts for a sportier feel and is tuned for a faster driving response through electronic stability control and steering calibrations. With all-wheel drive, this mode optimizes the transmission for lateral dynamics.
  • Traction +: A specifically calibrated mode maximizes low-speed traction with low friction and off-road surfaces by providing additional wheel slip through specially tuned chassis controls and a more direct engine response.




Fiat 500X Center Armrest USB Charging Port

Located in the center armrest between the front seats is a USB charging port.

Fiat 500X Front Door Panel

The Fiat 500X features stylish door panels with soft feel inserts including padded armrests. Large door pockets will accommodate a water bottle. Speakers are prominent with careful thought to positioning for best sound reproduction. Front and rear power windows have one touch up and down controls.

Fiat 500X Rear Seat Door Panel

Rear door panels continue the front panel's attractive theme and also contain door pockets with bottle holder.

Fiat 500X Inside Door Lock - Locked

Neat detail: Door lock is integrated in with the door handle.

Fiat 500X Inside Door Lock - Open

Speed-sensitive power locks are standard.

Fiat 500X Height Adjustable Seat Belt

Height adjustable seat belts.

Fiat 500X Front Courtesy and Reading Lights

Courtesy and reading lights for front seat passengers.

Fiat 500X Pivoting Sun Visors with Extenders

Pivoting sun visors with extenders.

Fiat 500X Rear Seat Courtesy Light

Rear seat passengers are treated to their own courtesy light.

Fiat 500X 2.4L TigerShark Engine

The 1.4L MultiAir Turbo engine used in various Fiats like the 500 Abarth and 500L MPV is available only on Pop models and only with two-wheel drive. All other 500X models come with the 2.4L TigerShark engine with MultiAir 2. MultiAir technology lowers tailpipe emissions, increases fuel economy all while boosting performance, especially at part throttle settings. The second generation MultiAir 2 system has additional refinements that further lower exhaust emissions while improving the fun to drive factor.

The highlight of the updated MultiAir 2 is the improvement of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation system (EGR). An EGR system sends exhaust gas into the combustion chamber at certain periods of time to lower emissions. However, it can have an adverse effect on driveability because exhaust gas does not burn and reduces peak pressures inside the combustion chamber.*

Unlike other cars with conventional EGR systems, MultiAir 2 can more precisely regulate the amount of EGR in the cylinder because it can decouple and open the intake valves independently from the cam lobe allowing the engine to have internal EGR. Valve opening has been optimized to precisely meter the amount of exhaust gas recirculated in the combustion chamber through valve overlap. The results help the 2.4L TigerShark engine achieve a lively, fun to drive character.


Fiat 500X Hood Prop Rod Detail

Hood prop rod detail.

Fiat 500X Bi-Halogen Headlight

Headlight on the 500X is a bi-halogen design. European models have a Xenon light option that is not currently being offered on North American models.

Fiat 500X Front Turn Signal Lamp

Turn signal as is the headlight is highly stylized.

Fiat 500X Fog and Cornering Lamp

Fog and cornering lamps are standard on all Lounge and Trekking models.

Fiat 500X Trekking Fog and Cornering Lamp

Trekking fog and cornering lamp. The 500X Pop and Easy models do not have fog lights.


Fiat 500X Front Door Handle

All Fiat 500X models have a remote keyless/illuminated entry feature. Satin-chrome finish door handles and trim are standard on Trekking models.

Fiat 500X Side View Mirror with Supplemental Turn Signal

Heated and power adjustable mirrors with supplemental turn signal lamps are standard equipment across the range. North American 500X models don't get the folding mirrors used in Europe.

==================================

This post showed just some of what the Fiat 500X has to offer. For example, there are 70 safety and security features available including pages of standard equipment. You can read all about them in the following posts.


Read more:


Fiat 500X Safety Features

Fiat 500X Full Features and Options

Fiat 500X Overview Video

Fiat 500X Design Explained

Fiat 500X Photo Album

Discuss on the Fiat 500X USA Forum

2016 Fiat 500X Full Specifications

2016 Fiat 500X Engineering

2016 Fiat 500X Overview and Design



*P. SaiChaitanya et al. Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
Conventional Exhaust Gas Recirculation System