- Fiat's Multiplay concept uses a sliding rear module to transform its enclosed cabin into a ute.
- The family configuration has six conventional seats, plus a multipurpose module for pets, storage or other uses.
- Fiat has not disclosed a powertrain, pricing, production timing or New Zealand availability for the concept.
Fiat has revealed a family car that can open up into a ute, using a sliding rear section to create an exposed load bed.
The 4.45m Multiplay concept made its debut at Stellantis' Night Before event ahead of the Paris Motor Show. Fiat combines MPV space with SUV styling and pickup functionality, drawing on the flexible cabins of its earlier Multipla models.
The transformation centres on a rear module called Metamorfosi. From the C-pillar, it slides lengthways along guides to change the vehicle from an enclosed family car into a pickup with an open load bed.
In ute form, four seats remain, with space behind them for bicycles, outdoor equipment or bulky loads. The rear spoiler also pivots into an integrated rack that can carry up to two bicycles.
Six seats, plus Petsenger
In its family configuration, the Multiplay has six conventional seats and a separate multipurpose module called Petsenger. That module can anchor a child seat, accommodate a pet or provide a small table and storage.
Fiat has worked pet accessories into the module, including a removable cushion component that doubles as a lead and a folding bowl. Waterproof finishes and soft surfaces made from mono-material 3D knitting are intended for a cabin shared with children and animals.
There is also a front passenger Sunseat that can turn rearwards and rest against the dashboard, creating a lounger beneath the panoramic roof. Fiat specifies that this arrangement is for use while parked.
Watermelon-green bodywork surrounds large areas of side glass, with red and pink inside. Displays disappear from view when the vehicle is switched off.
The cabin experiments have precedents: the 1956 Fiat 600 Multipla fitted six seats into roughly 3.5m, while the 1998 Multipla arranged six seats in two rows within a body under 4m long.
For now, Fiat describes the Multiplay as a laboratory of ideas, with no specific production model previewed. It has disclosed no powertrain or power figures, pricing, production timing or New Zealand availability.
