When it comes to pickup truck segment, people usually think of models from brands like Toyota, Ford, and Ram. Italian carmaker Fiat is known more for making a stylish coupe, sedan, and crossovers worldwide. However, the reality is Fiat has made a foray into growing pickup segment. It may not have any model to match the likes of Ram Rebel or Ford F-150 Raptor. But Fiat has some nice offerings in light and midsize pickup segment. The Fiat Toro 2017 is an example. It is now on sale in Brazil and will be made available in some other markets soon.
Fiat Toro 2017 – New Architecture:
The Fiat Toro 2017 is stylish looking and stands out in a crowd of mostly drab looking rivals. It is based on the same framework as the Jeep Renegade, which is based on the Small wide 4×4 platform of Fiat. The faux front skid plate, LED daytime running lights, roof rack and chrome accents add to the style quotient. The word Toro means bull but the truck does not look very rugged. The rear side has large Fiat logo and wraparound taillamps. Compared to the likes of Chevy Colorado it is a smaller pickup truck. There are 3 trim levels- Adrenaline, Urban, and Country. The truck can accommodate 5 passengers, which means the cabin is roomy.
Fiat Toro 2017 comes equipped with decent but not stellar safety and infotainment options. You will get UConnect infotainment system, tire pressure sensor and reverse parking sensors. Airbags and rearview mirrors are there too.
Fiat Toro 2017 – Engine Output:
You get to pick from 2 engine choices and both 4WD and 2WD configurations are available. Rated payload limit is 2,204 pounds. The 1.8-liter E-Torq Flex engine will be present or you can opt for the 2.0-liter Multijet turbo diesel unit. The engines generate 138 and 170 hp respectively. There are 3 transmission choices- six-speed automatic, nine-speed automatic and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Fiat Toro 2017 – Price and Expected Release Date:
Fiat is yet to announce the price of the Toro 2017, for the US and European markets. Once it starts selling in the markets by 2016 end, it will be known. Fiat Toro has a lot of contenders to take on. The rivals from GM stable are aplenty and the Honda ridgeline and Ford Ranger also going to lock horns with it. It wins the game in style without hassle but in areas like towing limit, rugged build, and engine power lag behind the competition. Even then it will appeal to buyers seeking style with substance in the light duty pickup segment.