Is it here for testing in Auburn Hills, or is Fiat considering an American version of its Toro pickup ?


m@ captured these photos on Route 94 near Ann Arbor. There is no badging on the outside, but the steering wheel had a Jeep logo; the dashboard was otherwise heavily covered. Tail-lights are Fiat issue.

Renegade pickup or Fiat Toro?

The Renegade-based Toro is probably just being tested in Auburn Hills and the  Chrysler testing center in Chelsea, Michigan . Mules often have odd parts, and the Jeep steering wheel could simply be what was handy.

Toro or Jeep pickup front

The Toro will have a split tailgate, rather than a dropdown (though it  may use a design patented by FCA US which allows for both uses ).  It shares a great deal with the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X.  A similar vehicle spied last October  also had a Jeep steering wheel — with Fiat seats and a 2.4 Tigershark motor — but was heavily disguised outside.

The Fiat Toro will be sold in South America and (likely) Mexico; legalizing it for U.S. sale would be expensive, as would prepping a Jeep version.  On the other hand, an economical, fun little four-door pickup might pick up some decent sales; a Renegade pickup would be unique, and not step on the toes of a forthcoming Wrangler pickup.