Report - EcoSport-rivaling Fiat 500X leaks out early; Not for India

Debuts at the Paris Motor Show early next month.

Seen here is the first image of the production ready Fiat 500X crossover. This image was snapped by Quattroruote forum member, 'gorillajr'. The 500X, as was expected, gets the 'soft-crossover' treatment with roof rails, subtle body cladding, skid guards and a slightly increased ground clearance compared other members in the 500 clan.

It would be surprising to note that the 500X shares its underpinnings with the Jeep Renegade compact SUV, which stays true to its brand identity by offering a rugged design.

Powering the 500X would be Fiat's turbocharged TwinAir petrol engines and MultiJet diesel engines. Reports say that these engines will be offered with a manual gearbox, a dual-clutch automatic or a 9-speed automatic transmission. With base variants getting a front wheel drive layout, Fiat will offer a 4WD system as optional fitment, whereas the Renegade comes standard with this feature.

Also watch: Fiat 500X's video teaser

The 500X will be Fiat's answer to cars like the EcoSport for the European market. In India though, the company will launch the Punto-based Avventura early next month.

Competitors: Ford EcoSport, Jeep Renegade, Hyundai ix25, Nissan Juke

Expected Price: INR 12-15 lakhs, ex-Showroom

Launching in: Late 2014/Early 2015 in Europe

[Spy image from Quattroruote]