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Fiat’s Freemont MPV is taking on the world, but is it destined for South Africa?
As the first Fiat to be produced in partnership with the Chrysler Group, the seven-seater MPV is essentially a rebadged Dodge Journey (launched in SA in 2008 and still sold here, prices from R235 000) although it has been emboldened with some Italian flair (including LEDs for the tail lights).
The basic dimensions are unchanged, but new features include a wrap-around dashboard with chrome inserts, a new instrument panel and an infotainment system providing access to audio and Bluetooth functions via a 4.3-inch colour screen.
SEVEN-SEATER HEAVEN
But one of the Journey’s key attractions, which should translate well with Fiat owners, is the Freemont’s seven-seat versatility. The car’s seat slide system makes it easy to get into the third row of seats.
The seats in the third row can also be folded down into the load floor to turn the MPV into a five-seater with a flat area of goods. If even more space is needed, the second row of seats and the front passenger seat can also be folded flat. A number of storage compartments are scattered throughout the cabin, too.
SAFETY FIRST
Safety is the task of the Freemont’s six airbags, ABS with brake assist, ESP and electronic rollover mitigation, which uses data received from the ESP sensors to detect potential rollover risks and supplies brake power to individual wheels while adjusting the position of the throttle valve.
The Freemont is powered by a range of two-litre petrol engines although a 3.6-litre V6 from Chrysler is a possibility.
Fiat South Africa told Wheels24 that clarity on whether the Freemont will be sold here is expected “in a few weeks”.
As the first Fiat to be produced in partnership with the Chrysler Group, the seven-seater MPV is essentially a rebadged Dodge Journey (launched in SA in 2008 and still sold here, prices from R235 000) although it has been emboldened with some Italian flair (including LEDs for the tail lights).
The basic dimensions are unchanged, but new features include a wrap-around dashboard with chrome inserts, a new instrument panel and an infotainment system providing access to audio and Bluetooth functions via a 4.3-inch colour screen.
SEVEN-SEATER HEAVEN
But one of the Journey’s key attractions, which should translate well with Fiat owners, is the Freemont’s seven-seat versatility. The car’s seat slide system makes it easy to get into the third row of seats.
QUALITY INTERIOR: The Freemont MPV gets a new finishes for its dash and interior trim.
SAFETY FIRST
Safety is the task of the Freemont’s six airbags, ABS with brake assist, ESP and electronic rollover mitigation, which uses data received from the ESP sensors to detect potential rollover risks and supplies brake power to individual wheels while adjusting the position of the throttle valve.
The Freemont is powered by a range of two-litre petrol engines although a 3.6-litre V6 from Chrysler is a possibility.
Fiat South Africa told Wheels24 that clarity on whether the Freemont will be sold here is expected “in a few weeks”.
