They are as rare as hens' teeth here too, but then I don't notice all that many new cars of any make these days, unless it is expensive ones.
The car market follows the money, and as the rich are increasing their wealth so are the less well off losing theirs. Not a complicated equation really.
Fiat is giving up on all cars above the 500L size and will not bother with any Bravo or Punto type models in future because BMW, Audi and even VW has got that market stitched up. Badges seem to matter. There is enormous overcapacity and Renault, Peugeot-Citroen, Opel and Ford are in the same boat. Saab and Rover have gone, Lancia is going and others will doubtless go too.
People want cheap sensible low cost cars and Fiat gave up on those a long time ago. I'd expect sub-brands made in low cost countries and using a limited component supply to take up the slack. And maybe the Indians and Chinese, who knows?
I mean, £14,000 for a little Panda 4x4 really is too much. It should be nearer £11,000, but other manufacturers will doubtless be quick on their feet to fill the holes left by traditional makers who are all trying all going upmarket to try and complete with the Germans - which they cannot do.
