Fiat to Built Compact SUV Based on Viaggio Sedan (Dodge Dart)

There are a number of key markets which Fiat needs to target before the company can consider itself truly competitive on a global level. One that's of particular importance is the compact SUV, ideal for people with families who also need to get about town in a reasonably fuel efficient way.

A recent report coming from China suggests Fiat will use the CUSW (compact US wide) platform to create just such a vehicle. Engineers will apparently start out with the shell of a Fiat Viaggio sedan, which is itself based on the Dodge Dart. If this is getting a bit confusing for you, know that Jeep's brand new Cherokee is also a CUSW derivative and will probably serve as a benchmark.

Speaking of benchmarks, these should also include the Honda CR-V, a segment best seller, and the Ford Kuge. Fiat's compact SUV will be a global product, but it will be tailored for many different markets.

Under the 5-year plan which was revealed last week, Fiat has announced its first major SUV will arrive in Europe in 2017. The Asian market will receive it a year after that, offering less complicated engines.

According to CarNewsChina, production will be taken care of the Guangzhou-Fiat joint venture, while the engine chosen is a 1.4-liter turbo mated to a 5-speed manual and optional twin-clutch. The same Chinese joint venture will also soon start production of the Jeep SUV.

We can only hope that the European version borrows more technology from the Jeep Cherokee, including its 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive should be standard on most trim levels, since buyers very rarely take their vehicles on rougher terrain.

For now, there are no plans to bring such a vehicle to either North or South America.

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Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang Recreate Iconic Bullitt Chase [Video]

As a special homage to the Oscar-winning Hollywood sensation from 1968, the epic car chase starring a Highland Green colored Ford Mustang GT fastback and an intimidating black Dodge Charger R/T was recreated on the streets of a sleepy Silverstone village.

We're sure that every petrolhead knows that the awe-inspiring high-speed pursuit featured in the original action thriller was filmed on the hilly streets of San Francisco. However, this new remake was shot in the United Kingdom at the Silverstone circuit because the Mustang will be celebrating its British 50th anniversary at this summer's Silverstone Classic event, which will take place between July 25th and 27th.

“It’s hard to imagine a better way for us to celebrate the Mustang’s forthcoming 50th birthday party than by making this special homage to the classic car chase in Bullitt,” said Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic event director. “As you can imagine, we had a lot of fun making this film – not least as it gave us all a great excuse to watch the original movie once again!”

Staying loyal to the visual identity of the revered Bullitt chase, the remake starts with the Steve McQueen character (US police officer Lieutenant Frank Bullitt) driving his Stang, while two baddies follow him in a Dodge Charger. The modern patische is full of nods to the original, with the hitman driver wearing leather gloves plus black shades, as well as the Mustang popping up in the Charger's rear view mirror.

Both vehicles used to recreate the iconic chase will be on display at the Silverstone Classic as part of a huge Mustange presence supported by Pure Michigan, the tourism division of the US State of Michigan. What's more, both the Bullitt Stang and Charger will be joined by Gone in 60 Seconds's Eleanor and the pony from American Gangster.

Scroll down to watch the exciting remake, as well as the original Bullitt car chase.

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