by Chrysler Prepares a Comeback with Two New Crossovers Based on Fiat
Chrysler, which has almost disappeared from the radar as a separate brand in recent years, is preparing for a revival. After the 300 model left the assembly line, the company was left with only one car in its lineup — the Pacifica minivan. However, the situation may change thanks to two new crossovers that Fiat recently introduced under the names Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback. As it turned out, these models will also appear in the US, but already under the Chrysler brand.
According to Auto News, Stellantis showed both vehicles behind closed doors during the Capital Markets Day event in Michigan on May 21. It is reported that the Grizzly Fastback was featured as the Chrysler Arrow, and the standard Grizzly SUV as the Arrow Cross. These names have already appeared in Stellantis teasers regarding the revival of Chrysler, and now the company appears ready to fill the brand’s lineup with real products.
Technical Specifications and Platform
Both Grizzly models are built on Stellantis’s Smart Car platform, which is already used in the Citroen C3 Aircross, Opel Frontera, and Fiat Grande Panda. Their length is less than 177.2 inches (4.5 meters), placing them in the compact crossover segment, roughly the same size as the new Toyota C-HR. This is a good start for a brand trying to regain market share. Even more importantly, Stellantis stated a starting price for both models below $30,000.
Fiat will offer buyers a choice between gasoline, mild hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Although exact specifications have not yet been announced, the lineup is expected to use the familiar turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine in both conventional and hybrid versions, as well as a battery electric vehicle. It is not yet known which engine types will be available in North America.
Design and Features
The standard Grizzly has rectangular proportions and a more boxy design aimed at maximizing space for passengers and luggage. The Fastback, on the other hand, sacrifices some practicality for a more streamlined coupe-like roof and stylish appearance. Inside, Fiat promises a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, cyclist and pedestrian detection, as well as Level 2 driver assistance technology.
How much of this equipment will carry over to the American Chrysler versions? It is hard to say for sure yet, but it is logical to assume almost everything. If the Arrow and Arrow Cross reach production without significant changes compared to their Fiat counterparts, they could give Chrysler dealers what they have lacked for years: affordable products positioned below the Pacifica.
Prospects and Production
Production of the Fiat Grizzly models is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. This means the Chrysler Arrow and Arrow Cross could hit the market around the same time or slightly later. For a brand that has relied solely on the Pacifica in recent years, these crossovers will be an important step in restoring its presence in the affordable SUV segment, where competition is extremely high.
It is worth noting that the strategy of rebranding Fiat models under the Chrysler name is not new for Stellantis, which often uses shared platforms for different brands. However, the success of this move will depend on how well the vehicles can be adapted to the requirements of the North American market, particularly regarding safety, comfort, and the preferences of local buyers. If Chrysler can offer modern, affordable, and technologically equipped crossovers at a price below $30,000, this could mark the beginning of a new era for a brand that has long needed an update. At the same time, competition from players such as Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai will be extremely fierce, so the key factor will be not only price but also quality and unique offerings that can distinguish the Arrow and Arrow Cross from the rest.
