Fiat Professional is to launch a full-size pickup truck for the first time in Europe. The Italian manufacturer, which has a smaller pickup on mainland Europe called the Strada, will be entering the market with a badge-engineered version of the next generation Mitsubishi L200.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Group is the largest car manufacturer in the world without a full-size pickup in Europe, and the London-based company is aiming to plug a gap in its already extensive Fiat Professional line up with the new venture.
The announcement comes at a busy time for pickups; with the new Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Toyota Hilux, and the facelifted Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok expected soon.
Engine
It’s too early to say which engine and driveline Fiat will mate with the new vehicle, although we imagine it will share the same underpinnings as the Mitsubishi L200. This would mean a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine connected with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Productivity
We don’t yet know the name of the pickup, so obviously Fiat isn’t saying anything about the exact specifications. We do know, however, that the L200 has a 3,000mm wheelbase, 205mm ground clearance, and a load length of around 1,520mm.
Availability
The new vehicle will be launched after the new Mitsubishi L200 and is likely to arrive in the UK in early 2016. It will be sold through Fiat Professional’s mixed network of certified Fiat and Iveco dealerships. Keep checking back on Parkers Vans for more details.
