The Fiat 500L is a rather unique car. Technically, it was born from the 500, but the 500L doesn’t really fit the bill of a compact car. On top of that, actually looks pretty fresh when you compare it to its bland base brother.

The 500L Trekking is being touted as the more adventurous side of the 500L and, true to the name it’s been given, it offers the kind of sporty and rugged look that some may not expect from the 500. Who knew that Fiat actually had this up its sleeve?

The aggressively styled front and rear fascias are the first things you’ll notice about the 500L Trekking. Pair that with the flared wheel arches that further accentuate the car’s aggressive stance and the body-side sill moldings, and you have a vehicle that’s far from your “typical” Fiat 500->ke1708. Let’s not forget to give some love to the set of 17-by-7-inch aluminum wheels, which complement the body well.

Inside the cabin there are more of the same enhancements. The cabin is highlighted by a two-tone Nero/Marrone (black/brown) interior environment, which elevates the rugged characteristics of the vehicle to q whole new level. Combine the appearance with high-tech equipment, like the all-new Uconnect 5.0 system, makes for a great balance of looks and practicality. This standard Uconnect system features a 5-inch intelligently and intuitively designed touchscreen interface, hands-free calling and Bluetooth streaming audio. Add in the voice-controlled audio system, and you have a technology masterpiece.

Expect to see the 2014 Fiat 500L and its Trekking variant in U.S. showrooms in mid-2013. No pricing details are available just yet.

UPDATE 02/28/13: The Fiat 500L Trekking Concept is making its way to the Geneva Motor Show. Better keep an eye out on this bugsy concept because there's a good chance that it's going to catch some stares.

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