Introducing the Fiat 500XL: and you thought the Fiat 500L was ugly

By Nick Jaynes April 29, 2013

Fiat 500XL — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Fiat 500XL spy shot: Photo Credit: cochespias.net

The U.S. is soon to receive the bigger, four-door version of the Fiat 500, the looks of which some have likened to that of the fated Pontiac Aztec for its outright hideousness.

Now, however, there just might be an even bigger, even more-bloated version: the Fiat 500XL. Seen in the photo above, which was reportedly taken in a Fiat factory, the Fiat 500XL is 200mm longer than the standard 500L and has more than enough room for five passengers, according to an Autocar story.

Just like it’s U.S.-bound 500L brother, the 500XL will be powered by a 160 horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, for global markets, the 500XL would also receive the 105 horsepower 0.9-litre TwinAir engine and the 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel.

Fiat 500L: Photo Credit: Chrysler

It’s unclear whether the Fiat 500XL will ever make it Stateside. We suspect it will, if the 500L is at all successful.

Americans are seemingly obsessed with crossovers at the moment and having a distinctive compact European seven-seater could be an interesting addition to the marketplace.

Another variant of the 500L based upon the jacked-up 4×4 looks of the Fiat Panda is also anticipated next year. This, too, could make an American debut if Fiat is as eager to compete with MINI in North America as seems to be.

We realize that on paper this kind of car might be a good idea. We can’t, however, really get our minds past its looks. We do like the Fiat 500 (especially the Abarth version) and we want to see more affordable Italian cars on the American roadways, we just wished they didn’t look like the amorphous blob of the 500 series.

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Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

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