Fiat launches cheapest mid-sized SUV in Australia-Fiat Freemont

The local arm of Fiat has launched the Freemont SUV today (read our review here), priced from $25,990, making it the cheapest mid-sized SUV on sale in Australia.

Based on the Dodge Journey, the Fiat Freemont is offered in two new powerplants – a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol generating 125kW of power and 220Nm of torque, mated with a six-speed automatic, and a 2.0-litre MultiJet II turbo-diesel producing 125kW and 350Nm, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.

While the Dodge Journey is offered only with a 3.6-litre petrol V6 and seven seats as standard, the Freemont will not be offered with the larger engine. Fiat has also made the third row seats a $1,500 option across the range.

The $25,990 entry price ($27,000 drive-away) for the ‘Base’ buys 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone airconditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, auto dipping rear-view mirror, keyless entry and start, alarm, integrated child-booster seats, tyre pressure monitor and Uconnect infotainment system with 4.3-inch touchscreen CD/MP3 and integrated telephone with voice command and Bluetooth audio streaming.

Mid-range ‘Urban’ adds a larger 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system which includes DVD player, dual-zone climate control, six-way electric adjustment for the driver’s seat and Sunscreen glass.

The range-topping $30,300 Fiat Freemont ‘Lounge’ is delivered with satellite-navigation, accent-stitched leather upholstery and premium door trims, chrome roof bars, Alpine audio system with subwoofer and 368-watt amplifier, 19-inch alloy wheels and heated front seats.

On the options list are the 7-seat Flexible Seating Group, a power sunroof and ‘Rear Seat Video Group’ – a second row overhead screen and wireless headphones.

While the petrol engine is available on all three trim levels, the diesel engine is offered only in mid-range Urban trim at $32,600.

Fiat is quick to point out that although the Freemont was developed in partnership with Chrysler, Italian engineers have optimised the vehicle’s dynamic performance. According the company, handling and comfort have been improved thanks to redesigned suspension, including stiffening the suspension mountings, improving the front suspension geometry to reduce roll angle and adjusting the suspension and shock absorber calibration for better handling response and comfort.

The Fiat Freemont is on sale now, with the new Panda and Punto models both arriving in Australia later this year.