I can’t remember seeing any in my lifetime, but Italian automaker Fiat sold cars in the United States from 1908 until 1983. A reputation for poor quality led to their exit from the U.S. in 1984. But at the end of this year, Fiat is coming back.

In 2009, when the big American auto companies were in danger, Fiat was the saving grace for Chrysler, buying a 20% stake in the company with hopes of co-developing cars in the future.

Earlier this month, Chrysler unveiled the 2011 American market Fiat 500. The "nuova" 500 is a popular hatchback in Europe. This version debuted in 2007 with a throwback design to the 500 of the 60s and 70s.

A three door hatchback, the 500 is slated to compete directly against the Mini Cooper. They both seem to have followed a similar path, with retro-revival styling and somewhat upscale positioning. As the only premium compact sold in the U.S. currently, Mini has had triumphant success since its return — a large part no doubt due to impeccable branding.

So far, the buzz for the Fiat seems to be somewhat dim, with very little information available and an anemic website. Let's hope Chrysler can get it together and promote this car right. It's a funky little thing, loved abroad, but won't be able to get by on style alone in the skeptical U.S. market.

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