FIAT in the 90's and early 00's went through a really bad phase, due to Ferrari sinking millions into F1, to the point FIAT Brazil was more active than FIAT Europe developing new models.
FIAT are reliable. A few engines were less than good but FIAT has always been on the forefront of developing new technology into engines and cars. My first car, a cheap model, had direct fuel injection when most other manufacturers were still using carburettors (at best, eletrically controlled).
It's even a joke between owners that FIAT cars don't like mechanics but when they start doing, you're better off changing cars.
I tried to discover what was the line-up you have over there and it seems we get more from over there (essentially through the SUV line, from JEEP) than you receive from here.