Some good news where none has been in a long time. Fiat sourced 1.4L engines will be produced for both the upcoming US release Fiat 500 as well as for future Dodge and Chrysler vehicles yet to be announced.
The Production of said engine is slated to begin in late 2010. Fiat and Chrysler chief executive Marchionne said the next two years would be critical for the Chrysler five-year restructuring plan that was outlined in a press conference back in November. The daunting plan that is supposed to rebuild trust with customers, as well as put Chrysler in the red in just 5 short years.
Fiat, which owns 20% share in Chrysler Corp. is hoping that the introduction of the smaller, cuter Fiat 500 will boost the image and gain new market and mind share for Chrysler here in the states. The 1.4L turbo engine that will be produced months later, and placed in to the Abarth 500, the 500's sportier brother, will also be built in Michigan.
Image courtesy of Car and Driver