Fiat 500XL 7-seater revealed in patent drawings

Fiat 500XL = Fiat 500L + 2 jump seats.

Yes, Fiat will add third row seats to the 500L revealed in Geneva this year. It creates a seven-seater version of the 500L which is aptly called 500XL.

We don't have an interior shot yet, but chances are the third row is not the best seat in the house as the car's length is just 150mm longer than the 500L.

According to the patent drawings, the Fiat 500XL will have the same wheelbase as the 500L, but is 150mm longer, thanks to the extended rear overhang to offer more comfort for the third row passengers.

The Fiat 500XL is anticipated to enter production in the third quarter of 2013 and hits the dealership floors around the globe except for the US because Fiat apparently thinks that American people won't prefer 7-seaters. The 500L, if priced correctly, is Fiat India's answer to the Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Xylo.

Looking at it from an overall perspective, if the 500 platform can be fully localized in India, it can help Fiat offer a small car like the Panda, an SUV in the form of the 500X and a MPV in the 500XL.

The Fiat 500X which was teased during a media presentation at Turin recently, hinting at an EcoSport-type vehicle. All variants are expected to use small four cylinder petrol and diesel engines.

[Source: Carscoop.blogspot.com]