Chrysler Will Build the Fiat 500 for Americans

AUBURN HILLS, Michigan — The Fiat 500 will be coming to the U.S. market as early as 2011. Inside Line has learned it won't be built in Mexico, as had been speculated, but at one of Chrysler's own U.S. plants, possibly the one in Belvidere, Illinois.

The 500s are slated to be in showrooms in the U.S. by the first quarter of 2011, and they will be badged as Fiats, according to Fiat executives quoted by Automotive News.

Four versions of the red-hot little car will be built for the U.S. market, Automotive News reported, quoting 500 designer Robert Giolito, who confirmed the plan in Italy. Two hatchbacks — one standard, one sporty Abarth model — a convertible and a wagon, will comprise the U.S. line-up. The trade publication noted that it is possible a four-wheel-drive SUV version of the tiny car could be in the works as well for U.S. consumption.

Inside Line says: Attention, Chrysler dealers, let's get those order books snapped open and ready for the Abarth 500. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent