Fiat Keeps Us Guessing On Idea 4x4

Here's an idea that Fiat is still not sure about... Despite displaying the daring off-road 5Terre (pronounced Cinque Terre) for the first time on its Geneva show stand, the Italian firm is still refusing to admit publicly any plans to build it.

Auto Express Car Reviews

11th March 2004

However, as our picture shows, the car is not far off being production ready. And insiders have privately confirmed to Auto Express it could be on sale as early as 2006. It's based on the new Idea mini-MPV and its name is taken from the Mediterranean Cinque Terre coastal region of Italy. It combines the dynamic, functional look of an SUV with the practicality and space of a people mover, thanks to a versatile fold-flat seating system.

Black plastic cladding protects the wings and sills, while a sophisticated 4WD system promises improved traction over the standard front-wheel-drive Idea. Engines including a 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3 diesel are on the cards - if Fiat decides to gives the 5Terre the go-ahead. Geneva image library