It wouldn’t be a major auto show without some early leaks, and so the Fiat Viaggio has been shown online ahead of the Beijing Motor Show. The Italian-badged sedan drew our attention because it’s a slightly-revised version of the new 2013 Dodge Dart.
As we’ve previously heard, the Viaggio will go on sale in China under the Fiat-Guangzhou brand. Measuring 183.1 inches long, 70.5 inches wide, and with a 106.4-inch wheelbase, the Viaggio’s promised dimensions closely mirror those of the Dodge Dart. The teaser photos show we can expect a new look for the Viaggio, with more chrome trim than the Dodge Dart, as well as a rounded-off grille, integrated trunklid spoiler, and unique taillights.
The Fiat Viaggio is said to use a turbocharged 1.4-liter T-Jet inline-four engine in two flavors, one with 120 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque and the other with 150 hp and 170 lb-ft. A similar turbocharged 1.4-liter Multiair inline-four makes 160 hp and 184 lb-ft in the American-market Dodge Dart. The Serbian website also suggests that the Viaggio will be sold with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is not offered in the Dodge Dart.
After launching the Viaggio sedan later this year, Fiat may consider selling a hatchback version in China. However, we don’t expect that model will ever be sold in the U.S. market. For now, the Dodge Dart will likely remain a sedan.
