The Fiat portfolio will expand next year when the larger, five-door 500L joins the Cinquecento range in the United States. This new model will make its world debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show.

Fiat has been building out the 500 line here, adding the clever 500 Cabrio convertible, special Gucci and Pink editions, and soon a sportier 500 Abarth. The 500L will be the first truly different model.

It measures about two feet longer than the familiar 500, promising a more family friendly package than the current car. We found that access to the rear seat in the two-door model was difficult and accommodations rather tight once there.

Fiat has said three engines will be offered in Europe, but no details have been announced yet for the States. Hopefully it will offer more grunt than the 101-hp, 1.4-liter engine now used in the 500.

Read our road tests of the Fiat 500 and 500C.