Currently reading: Front-drive Fiat Sedici launched
Two-wheel drive version of baby SUV is nearly £3000 cheaper than 4x4 version, but no cleaner or more

Fiat has become the latest manufacturer to launch a two-wheel drive version of an SUV, with a new '4x2' version of the Sedici.Only available in 'Dynamic' trim and with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, the 4x2 Sedici gives the range a new entry price of £9999. That's nearly £3000 less than the Sedici 1.6 Dynamic 4x4.The Sedici 4x2 is visually identically to the 4x4 version, indeed the only difference between the two cars being the absence of a four-wheel drive switch next to the handbrake. Standard equipment includes aircon and four airbags, and the first 120 4x2s in the UK will get a bonus package of extras including alloy wheels, black metallic paint and dark tinted rear windows. Despite losing its powered back axle, Fiat claims that the 4x2 Sedici has identical economy and emissions figures to its 4x4 sister: 39.8mpg combined and 173g/km.

Mike Duff

 

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Darth Balls 20 August 2008

Re: Front-drive Fiat Sedici launched

Probably not but I'd bet good money on most of the owners being unable to tell the difference if faced with a Pepsi Challenge style test of a 2WD and 4WD version.

I'd also like to see a lowered and body kitted Qashqai - I think it would look very mean in black!

Jon Hardcastle 19 August 2008

Re: Front-drive Fiat Sedici launched

Darth Balls wrote:

Jon Hardcastle wrote:

Fiat are now putting into practice something I have argued on this forum about some months ago. At the risk of repeating myself for those that have heard this before...

As the vast majority of 4x4's are driven on tarmac, most can be offered as a large 2 wheel drive variant that gives all that the 4x4 version gives whilst reducing weight, emissions and cost from them.

Seems simple really.

As for the Sedici, I have always thought it a good looking car. I hope it does well.

I agree with what Jon said. Nissan's Qashqai has been a great success and the vast majority of them are 2WD variants.

I like the Sedici, SX4 and the Qashqai.

Darth Balls wrote:

I agree with what Jon said. Nissan's Qashqai has been a great success and the vast majority of them are 2WD variants.

I like the Sedici, SX4 and the Qashqai.

Thank you Darth, but would the masses still buy a Porsche Cayenne or Range Rover Sport if they new it was 2wd?

I think sadly thay would still go for the 4x4 variant.

Darth Balls 19 August 2008

Re: Front-drive Fiat Sedici launched

Jon Hardcastle wrote:

Fiat are now putting into practice something I have argued on this forum about some months ago. At the risk of repeating myself for those that have heard this before...

As the vast majority of 4x4's are driven on tarmac, most can be offered as a large 2 wheel drive variant that gives all that the 4x4 version gives whilst reducing weight, emissions and cost from them.

Seems simple really.

As for the Sedici, I have always thought it a good looking car. I hope it does well.

I agree with what Jon said. Nissan's Qashqai has been a great success and the vast majority of them are 2WD variants.

I like the Sedici, SX4 and the Qashqai.