The Fiat Argo X marks the beginning of a new family of vehicles from the Italian automaker in Brazil, all utilizing the modular CMP platform. This new compact car will serve as the basis for four other models, which will be manufactured in Betim, Minas Gerais, following a R$14 billion investment in the Minas Gerais facilities.
The implementation of CMP aims to increase component sharing and modernize Fiat's entire product line in the country. This same platform is already used by Citroën, Peugeot, and Jeep Avenger vehicles.
Although the Fiat Argo X is classified as a compact hatchback, it has a ground clearance that qualifies it as an SUV according to Inmetro. The model will be launched, and the derived cars will emerge from it, with their market arrival dates being detailed.
The Fiat Pulse, currently an entry-level SUV, will undergo an update to become a compact SUV in its next version. After Fiat decides to keep the Argo name due to public preference for stability, the new model should continue to be called Pulse. This vehicle, known in Europe as Grizzly, will have dimensions close to 4.32 meters in length and 2.67 meters in wheelbase, competing in size with the Citroën Aircross and the Renault Duster, which ensures good internal space and a generous trunk.
Internally, the new Fiat Pulse is designated as project F2U and already has test prototypes circulating in Brazil, with a debut expected in 2027. Information gathered indicates that it will be equipped only with the 1.0 turbo T200 MHEV engine of 116 hp and will offer a seven-seater option.
Following the Pulse, the Fastback will be introduced, which was also presented internationally under the name Grizzly Fastback. In Brazilian territory, it will maintain the known nomenclature. The specifications of the new Fastback will be similar to those of the Pulse, differing only in the rear design. This adjustment to the rear shape should solve the main complaint about the current model, which concerns internal space, without compromising trunk volume.
Both the Pulse and the Fastback will feature a rotary selector for the transmission, giving the interior a more refined look. Furthermore, both will receive a more complete ADAS package and curtain airbags.
Considered the best-selling vehicle in Brazil, the Fiat Strada will receive a new generation with special attention. The pickup truck will gain in size, becoming derived from compact SUVs, following the trend observed in models like the Chevrolet Montana and the Volkswagen Tukan. According to sources, the new Strada will be sold alongside the current model for a period. Engine options will include the 1.0 turbo with a 12-volt mild hybrid system or the 1.3 naturally aspirated. The model will continue to offer single or double cabin configurations and is scheduled to debut in 2028, when the competitor Volkswagen Tukan will already be available on the market.
Even though it is a vehicle whose sales are mainly directed towards corporate fleets, the Fiat Mobi will receive a new generation based on the Argo X. It will be the last of these models to reach the consumer. The new Fiat Mobi version will have a European equivalent, which will replace the third-generation Panda, and its name should be Pandina, to avoid confusion with the Grand Panda. The new generation Mobi will use the CMP platform and incorporate SUV characteristics, similar to the Renault Kwid. There is a possibility that it will be available in electrified versions, as the Pandina is being evaluated for electric options.
Fiat officially revealed the new Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback models, two SUVs aimed at the global market that seek to expand the automaker's line of sport utility vehicles. The vehicles were presented during the celebration of the manufacturer's 127th anniversary and are scheduled for their public debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, with arrival in the international market expected in the last quarter of 2026.
Fiat positions the two cars to meet different consumer profiles, maintaining a focus on practicality and family use. The Grizzly follows the conventional SUV format, prioritizing comfort and interior space, while the Grizzly Fastback features a body with lines closer to a coupe but preserves versatility.
The unveiling of the models occurred through a video simulating the registration of the SUVs in an Italian notary office, featuring Olivier François in this scenario. François, CEO of Fiat and global marketing director of Stellantis, highlighted that the Grizzly is ideal for those seeking space and comfort, and the Grizzly Fastback offers these same benefits in a more expressive silhouette, reaffirming Fiat's commitment to accessible and economical family transport.
In terms of dimensions, the Grizzly measures 4.4 meters in length and was designed to optimize internal space within a contained size. The Grizzly Fastback reaches 4.5 meters and has a trunk capacity of up to 600 liters, combining elegance with daily functionality.
The SUV line will offer various powertrain options, including gasoline, mild hybrid, and fully electric, with a maximum power of 147 hp. Transmission availability can be manual or automatic, depending on the market. Furthermore, the vehicles will be launched in seven distinct colors and will incorporate technologies to assist in daily mobility.
As informed by the manufacturer, these SUVs are part of the product strategy defined during the Stellantis Investor Day, held in Auburn Hills, USA, on May 21. This strategy aims to strengthen Fiat's position as a highly internationalized brand, with a strong presence in the markets of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South America.
Fiat's entry into the compact SUV market occurred at a strategic time, consolidating itself with models like the Pulse and later the Fastback. The brand began operating in a category that shows constant growth, representing about one-third of all sales.
The Fiat Pulse established itself at the base of compact crossovers, offering a proposal focused on cost-benefit. It belongs to the entry-level SUV segment, which has been attracting more and more competitors.
The Pulse originated from Project 363, marking Fiat's debut in SUVs specifically developed for Brazil. Unlike the Freemont, which was a mid-sized model designed by Dodge, the Pulse is considered the first genuinely Fiat sport utility vehicle manufactured in the country. It uses the MLA platform, derived from the Argo, and is produced at the Stellantis Automotive Plant in Betim, Minas Gerais, featuring structural reinforcements and suspension adjustments.
This vehicle was also responsible for introducing the 1.0 turbo engine, the first turbocharged three-cylinder from Stellantis in South America, an engine later applied to other models such as the Fastback, Strada, Peugeot 208 and 2008, as well as the Citroën C3 and Aircross. Over the years, the Pulse has received special editions and a sporty version. In 2024, it became Fiat's first flex hybrid globally, and the previous year saw a restyling.
The official launch of the Fiat Pulse took place in October 2021, and a notable aspect of this launch was the name selection through a popular vote on the Italian automaker's social media. More than 380,000 people participated in the poll, and the name 'Pulse' received 65% of the votes, surpassing options like 'Domo' and 'Tuo.'
The Pulse helped inaugurate the entry-level SUV category, characterized by being small crossovers derived from hatchbacks and having more accessible prices compared to other compact utilities. Later, rivals such as the Renault Kardian and Volkswagen Tera emerged, and more recently, Chevrolet launched the Sonic. The launch of the Hyundai Bayon and Jeep Avenger is still predicted for 2026.
With the naturally aspirated 1.3 Firefly engine, the Fiat Pulse delivers performance aligned with its entry-level proposal. This engine generates 107 hp with ethanol and 98 hp with gasoline, providing good agility in urban environments and moderate consumption. The unit performs well during accelerations and maintains predictability, even when using the seven-speed virtual CVT transmission, which provides comfort and agility in performance.
On highways, overtaking requires attention, as the torque of 13.7 kgfm (ethanol) and 13.2 kgfm (gasoline) manifests greater force only above 4,000 rpm. The performance and consumption data (factory/Inmetro) are: 0 to 100 km/h: 11.7 s (e) / 12.2 s (g); City: 9.1 km/l (e) / 12.6 km/l (g); Highway: 10.1 km/l (e) / 14.7 km/l (g).
Using the 1.0 turbo engine from the GSE line, the Fiat Pulse stands out among the most powerful entry-level compact SUVs. It offers 130 hp with ethanol and 125 hp with gasoline, with a torque of 20.4 kgfm available from 1,700 rpm, resulting in quick responses and good disposition during acceleration. This version is praised for its efficiency and more dynamic behavior during overtakes, making it an interesting alternative for those seeking more liveliness with controlled consumption.
In 2024, the Pulse and Fastback were Fiat's first flex electrified models, receiving a mild hybrid system. This system uses a 12V battery to assist the 1.0 turbo engine in specific moments, such as starting, acceleration, and overtaking, resulting in a slight gain in fuel economy. The hybrid model data is: 0 to 100 km/h: 9.4 s (e) / 9.7 s (g); City: 9.3 km/l (e) / 13.4 km/l (g); Highway: 10.2 km/l (e) / 14.4 km/l (g).
In 2022, Fiat launched the Pulse Abarth, marking the debut of the Brazilian sports division model. This version received specific modifications, including a 1 cm lower suspension, 12% stiffer springs and shock absorbers, 7% more direct steering, and a 13% firmer body, in addition to sized brakes.
The engine used is the 1.3 GSE turbo, generating 185 hp with ethanol and 180 hp with gasoline, with a torque of 27.5 kgfm at 1,750 rpm. The result is a compact SUV with performance comparable to a sports hatchback, standing out for its steering precision and feeling of grip on the road, with immediate responses upon pressing the accelerator. Its indicators are: 0 to 100 km/h: 7.6 s (e) / 8.0 s (g); City: 6.8 km/l (e) / 10.0 km/l (g); Highway: 8.8 km/l (e) / 12.3 km/l (g).
Although Stellantis claims the Pulse uses the MLA platform, it is directly derived from the Argo. The ergonomic qualities and balanced behavior of the Argo were maintained in the compact SUV. The Pulse provides a comfortable driving position and reasonable space for legs and knees; however, the steering wheel could have better grip and be smaller. The rear seat is better suited to accommodate two adults and one child, and its shorter seat may cause discomfort on long trips.
The trunk has a capacity of 320 liters, matching its competitors. Regarding the finish, there is a predominance of plastics, showing improvements over the Argo, but fitting flaws and acoustic insulation issues persist that could be improved at high speeds.
For those looking for a used model, the 2023 Fiat Pulse Drive 1.3 CVT is recommended. According to KBB Brazil, the reseller price for this model ranges between R$ 91,570 and R$ 96,430.
The main standard features of the 2023 Fiat Pulse Drive CVT include four airbags, stability and traction control, hill start assist, reverse sensor, 8.4-inch multimedia center with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, electric trio light, LED headlights, and alloy wheels. Optional packages available at the time included a rearview camera, keyless entry, remote start, electrochromic mirror with native GPS, and onboard Wi-Fi.
The maintenance costs for the entry-level SUV are compatible with the category. Estimated values for 1.3 engine and CVT box components include: set of four front brake pads between R$ 200 and R$ 300; set of four spark plugs between R$ 110 and R$ 280; fuel pump between R$ 420 and R$ 550; oil change kit (5 liters 0w30 + filter) between R$ 290 and R$ 430; rear shock absorber (pair) between R$ 350 and R$ 500; rear bumper between R$ 540 and R$ 950; and right headlight (LEDs) between R$ 1,600 and R$ 2,800.
In forums and owner reports, the most frequent complaints point to oil pump failures in vehicles with less than 20 thousand kilometers driven, locking or irregular behavior of the CVT transmission, misalignment of trim pieces, paint problems, and cabin infiltration due to inadequate window sealing.
The Fiat Pulse has also had registered recalls: replacement of the rear parking sensor in 2022 units, replacement of the fuel duct in cars manufactured in 2022, and replacement of the high-pressure pump in vehicles produced between 2022 and 2023.
