According to the renowned newspaper USA Today, one of America’s best-known and (online) read newspapers, Fiat is making excellent progress so far. After last year results, people widely assumed failure laid around the corner and Laura Soave, responsible for day-to-day operations was the first victim of that. CEO Marchionne confidently argued dealers were not prepared for the arrival of the 500 that came earlier than planned. Now though with Q1 of 2012 ended, Fiat North America can look back at a successful period, which means other competitors present in this segment (Ford, Smart and Mini) will have to fear for a decrease in monthly sales.

Fiat related products have been praised several times by celebraties such as Jennifer Lopez, Madonna and Charlie Sheen. Indeed FGA sales in North America have risen during the last few months: February alone saw an increase of +69% compared to January. For the large part of 2011 only 30 dealers were at FGA’s disposal; now that number has risen to 142 and by the end of 2013 Fiat hopes to have established at least 200 independent dealers. The newspaper indicated Sergio Marchionne’s inspiring leadership  has been crucial in achieving this.