Fiat 500X SUV teased before Paris début

Fiat has revealed the 500X crossover prior to its public unveiling at the Paris motor show.

The 500X will complete the 500 family line-up, sitting alongside the 500L MPV. It rivals cars like the Nissan Juke in international markets.

The new model will have a blend of SUV and hatchback styling. Its wheelbase of around 4200mm will make it the longest model in the Fiat 500 family and it will share Fiat’s small vehicle architecture with the 500L and Punto. The new car will be built at Fiat’s Melfi factory in Italy alongside its sister car, the Jeep Renegade.

Engine options have yet to be confirmed but are likely to comprise Fiat MultiJet diesel and TwinAir petrol engines. Both the Fiat and the Jeep will play a vital part in Fiat Chrysler Automobile's plans to deliver on its "volume aspirations".

The Fiat 500X is expected to be launched in international markets in the first quarter of 2015.