Fiat Multipla won't return: the brand is putting its money on the Grizzly

A modern successor to the Fiat Multipla isn't on the horizon. Stellantis has shot down rumors of a comeback for the polarizing but unmistakable people-mover. Instead, the brand is putting its money on the Fiat Grizzly — a compact SUV due in 2026 with gasoline, hybrid and electric versions.

The interest in the Multipla makes sense: the model always stood out with its unusual layout and looks. The first Multipla back in the 1950s squeezed six seats into a body just over 3.5 meters long, while the late-1990s version added two rows of three and a front end that left no one indifferent. The car was mocked for its styling but praised for space, an easy seating position and a practical boot. In 1998 the Multipla was even shown at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

The new Multipla rumors were fueled by renders and social-media clips, but according to the source, no such model exists in Stellantis' industrial plan. Fiat is instead working on the Grizzly: a crossover with a taller body, hard-edged lines in the spirit of the Grande Panda and a sloping rear end. It's aimed at a young global audience that wants space, ground clearance and an accessible price.

Early details suggest the Grizzly will come with several powertrains. The entry point is expected to be a gasoline version with the new Turbo 100 and a six-speed manual. There should also be a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and the e-DCT6 automatic. The fully electric variant will use LFP batteries and is set to deliver around 400 km of range. The Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback are expected before the end of 2026.