Even though the Chrysler/Fiat alliance was completed Wednesday, Austin customers won’t see a Fiat vehicle in a local showroom anytime soon.

Nathan Toland, manager of Holiday Cars of Austin Inc., the Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep dealership on W. Oakland Ave., said that Fiat-partnered vehicles aren’t expected on the market for at least 18 months.

Even then, Toland doubts those models will be Fiat brand, but more likely Fiat-inspired models in a Chrysler design with a Chrysler name.

“I just don’t think they’ll take Fiats from Italy and ship them to Austin, Minn.,” he said. “They will be Chryslerized.”

Redesigned, lighter and more fuel-efficient Jeep Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicle.

Reworked Chrysler 300C large sedan, which had been a top seller for the company until it was caught and passed by newer vehicles from other automakers. Has a sleeker look, more luxurious interior.

New Dodge Durango full-size SUV to be made on the same platform as the new Grand Cherokee.

New rechargeable electric vehicle — either a minivan, a sports car or one of two Jeep models — that can go 40 miles on electricity before being recharged. It will have a small conventional engine to generate electricity and keep it running past 40 miles.

Source: Associated Press

Last week, several Web sites, including Consumer Reports, reported that Chysler/Fiat company officials said the Fiat 500, a vehicle similar in style to the Mini Cooper, could reach the United States in about a year and a half.

Toland said he isn’t aware of those plans.

“I sure haven’t heard that,” he said.

Toland did say that an ultra sub-compact model would benefit Chrysler because it’s something they don’t offer.

Either way, Toland said the Chrysler/Fiat alliance will greatly benefit Chrysler.

“Anyone who has traveled in Europe will recognize that Fiat is one of the most common nameplates you see in Europe,” he said. “They are a force to be reckoned with.”