Spied: 2013 Fiat Ellezero

Fiat is working on two new MPVs to indirectly replace the unloved Idea sub-compact MPV and directly replace the Multipla compact MPV. These pre-production prototypes, spied undergoing cold-weather testing in Serbia, appear to be longer than the Idea but still remain very compact.

The newcomer, codenamed 'L0', will underpin the new Panda III but will be sold as a derivative of the 500. Judging by the leaked photos, the car gets a 500-inspired nose, large headlights flanked by lower daytime running lights, and a simple, single-bar chrome upper grille. Chunky wheelarches, small overhangs, and a curvy rear adds style and substance that the Idea never quite had.

The interior will also be inspired by the new Panda and the 500, with square-shaped interior switches, retro instrument binnacle, and a chic dashboard with an integrated TomTom satellite navigation system. Customisation options will be truly extensive, from stickers to alloy wheels and everything in between.

Power will come from a variety of naturally-aspirated and turbocharged powerplants, mated to either a manual gearbox or a Dualogic robotised transmission.

The Ellezero ('L0'), will be manufactured in Serbia from 2012 and will likely to start from £13,000 when it launches in the third-quarter of 2012.

Meanwhile, the Multipla replacement, codenamed L1, will sport a wheelbase measuring in excess of 2.6 metres. With that in mind, it's been confirmed that new entrant will be sold in the U.S, with production commencing in Mexico sometime next year. The 'L1' will be offered in two wheelbases; short and long and two seating options; 5 seat and 7 seat.

Via Autoblog.rs and Alvolante.it