New Car: 2012 Fiat Freemont

Fiat has unveiled its new large MPV called the Freemont. The Freemont is essentially a European version of the Dodge Journey and is the first Fiat model from the brand�s alliance with Chrysler LLC.

The Freemont will be built at Chrysler�s Toluca factory in Mexico, alongside the Journey and imported for the European market.

Minor revisions include LED tail-lights, new bumpers, and a new radiator grille sporting the Fiat emblem. Fiat claim the Freemont is a �factotum vehicle� which has been �designed to meet the diverse needs of families and those seeking a spacious, comfortable and versatile vehicle to cater for the frenetic pace of everyday life or weekend leisure time�.

The entrance of the Freemont means that the compact Multipla MPV will be replaced; a plan that has been delayed due to Fiat�s lack of spending. The Freemont will sit alongside the sub-compact Qubo, and the compact Doblo MPV.

The new vehicle has had its chassis extensively reworked for �greater accuracy and directness� to make them more appropriate for European tastes.

Two engines will be offered; two tunes of the 2.0 MultiJet and a 3.6 litre Pentastar V6. The diesels arrive with 138bhp and 168bhp, both linked to a 6 speed manual, while the V6 produces 272bhp. In the pipeline, a 4x4 variant will be offered, using the more powerful diesel engine and the V6 petrol engine. Both will be hooked to a 6 speed automatic.

Inside, the Freemont uses more soft-touch materials and sports a reworked instrument panel and centre console.

The 7 seat Freemont measures at 4,890 long, 1,880mm wide, and 1,720 high, so with all the seats flipped down, luggage space is calculated at 1,461 litres. Two trim-levels will be available as part of the �Fiat Fair Price� strategy.

Entry-level models will come with tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, advance trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring system, front fog lights, ESP, x7 airbags, hill-start assist, touch-screen radio, cruise control, and steering wheel audio controls.

The range-topping trim will arrive with 17� alloy wheels, privacy rear glass, Bluetooth w/satellite navigation system, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking sensors, roof rails, electrically folding door mirrors, and automatic headlights and wipers.

A world debut will happen at the forthcoming Geneva motor show, with sales starting in June, however, Fiat says it "will re-evaluate this in the future" for the UK market.