- by Brian Byrne
Fiat shows off two new models
21 February 2003: Fiat's new supermini and its new compact MPV (above) will be the stars of the company's stand at the Geneva Motor Show the week after next.
Called 'Project 169 and Project 350', the first (above) is a cutting-edge take on the city car which may be a compact car but is still comfortable, roomy, ideal for city traffic but still able to undertake longer trips.
The show also gives two versions of the 'Project 350' (below), a model that combines the handling and the size of a compact car plus the modularity and versatility of a true MPV.
The new 1.3 Multijet 16v diesel engine will also have pride of place in the centre of the stand.
Another focus of the stand will be the area devoted to the original concept cars built on the 'Project 169' base. One is the Fiat Simba (above), the first European example of a small off-roader.
The Simba has a four wheel drive system (4x4 with viscous coupling) and neat size (3680 mm long, 1730 mm high and 1630 mm wide). Externally, the prototype is distinguished by crisp body lines, big headlights, spare wheel on the roof, broad windscreen for the best visibility and straight sides.
The second is the Fiat Marrakech (below), a Fiat prototype which has borrowed certain traits from the famous dune buggy of the Sixties.
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