Fiat Grizzly: The Italians are preparing a compact SUV with 7 seats and a Coupé version, ready to duel with the Dacia Duster
The Italian manufacturer Fiat continues its offensive on the affordable SUV market and has officially revealed the first images and details of its upcoming compact class model: the Fiat Grizzly. Conceived as a "big brother" for the recently launched Grande Panda, the new crossover promises to become an extremely competitive player in the C segment, with models such as the Dacia Duster, Dacia Bigster and Skoda Kamiq as clear targets.
The new model will be officially presented in its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show, which will open its doors from October 12-18, 2026.
Two silhouettes and design inspired by the "Giga Panda" concept
The biggest surprise offered by Fiat is the confirmation that the new Grizzly will not be a simple boxy SUV, but will be available in two body styles:
- Classic Crossover / SUV: A robust variant, focused on space and practicality.
- SUV Coupé / Fastback: A version with a roofline that plunges to the rear, an increasingly popular design choice in the compact segment.
Aesthetically, the Fiat Grizzly takes over the neo-retro design language pioneered by the Grande Panda. The front is dominated by optical blocks with pixelated LED signature, slightly wider than those of its smaller brother, which elegantly extend into the upper grille. The adventurous spirit is emphasized by a gray protective shield integrated into the front bumper, generous wheel arches and side protections painted in glossy black. For a modern look, the A-pillars come finished in contrasting black, and the roof can be configured in two-tone shades.
Modular platform and cabin with up to 7 seats
At the heart of the new Fiat Grizzly is the Stellantis group's Smart Car platform, an extremely versatile architecture already used by the Fiat Grande Panda, the new Citroën C3 Aircross and the Opel Frontera.
The Grizzly will be approximately 4.40 meters long and have a longer wheelbase than the Grande Panda, which will allow for a remarkable organization of interior space. Market sources indicate that the model will also offer an optional 7-seat configuration, making it one of the most affordable family SUVs in Europe.
Inside, the focus will be on durability and ergonomics. The cabin will be equipped with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen for the infotainment system. Fortunately for fans of classic ergonomics, Fiat has decided to keep dedicated physical buttons for controlling the climate system.
Engines: Petrol, Mild-Hybrid and Full Electric
Although Fiat has not yet published the full performance data sheet, the Stellantis strategy for the Smart Car platform provides a clear picture of the propulsion options. The new Grizzly will benefit from a complete range adapted to current requirements:
- Mild-Hybrid (48V): 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (with estimated power between 110 HP and 145 HP), coupled to a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
- Fully Electric (BEV): Electric versions equipped with 113 HP or 156 HP engines and batteries of up to 54 kWh, capable of ensuring an urban and mixed range of up to 400 km.
- Traction: Initially, the model will be available with front-wheel drive, but a later 4x4 variant (with a secondary electric motor on the rear axle) is not excluded.
Estimated prices and market launch
With the Fiat Grizzly, the Italians will bet heavily on the quality-price ratio to attract customers in Europe and other strategic global regions. The model's production would be ensured by the Stellantis plant in Morocco.
Price estimate: Base versions equipped with mild-hybrid technology are expected to start at an extremely competitive threshold of around 20,000 – 25,000 euros, while fully electric variants could remain below the 27,000 euro threshold (without local subsidies).
All official details, including equipment lists and the exact date of the debut in showrooms, will be confirmed in mid-October, under the spotlights of Paris.
