Fiat makes its Detroit Auto Show debut as a production model
The 2011 Fiat 500 is currently the only model available in the company portfolio although there are promises of a convertible (cabrio), electric model and Abarth performance model coming over the next two years. To help draw attention to the Fiat display, the Italian automaker had a small espresso bar surrounded by a collection of 2011 Fiat 500s in the various trimlines. On stage next to the display, Fiat included a vintage 500 circa the 1970s and a bright red Fiat 500 Sport.
The Sport, Pop and Lounge trimlines of the 2011 Fiat 500 were well displayed and to show that there is already some aftermarket for the Italian sub-compact, Chrysler aftermarket division Mopar offered up a “Moparized” Fiat 500 clad in black and blue; sporting a set of custom wheels, a cold air intake and a rear-end snowboard rack.
The 2011 Fiat 500 is expected to begin hitting showrooms next month although they will only be available with manual transmissions and when the automatic-shifted models arrive in March-April, the automaker will ramp up their marketing campaign as the 130 Fiat dealerships around the US come up to speed with the requirements set forth by Chrysler.
Check out the gallery below for a closer look at the Fiat 500s of the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.
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