Fiat presented the first official images of the Fiat 500L, the new model which will have its world preview at the 2012 International Geneva Motor Show.
Now there's a new handful of photos of the maxi-mini 500L to sate your curiousity until the 2012 Geneva Motor Show rolls around in early March.
The Fiat 500L will be introduced to Europe in the last quarter of 2012, with an engine range which will initially comprise two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II) and the most advanced, state-of-the-art technology from Fiat Group Automobiles.
t's now confirmed: Fiat is following in the footsteps of MINI and delving into its past to bring back a famous nameplate for its upcoming Fiat 500 wagon.
Due to be launched at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the new, larger 500 model will be called the 500L - the "L" standing for "Large".
MINI'sAt 13.6 feet long, 5.8 feet wide and 5.4 feet tall it's larger than the regular 500. Fiat's twin-cylinder TwinAir will feature, joined by a 1.4 gasoline model and a 1.3 MultiJet turbodiesel.
Fiat unveiled a new All-Wheel-Drive version of its Freemont people carrier, and unlike the car on which it’s based, it’s actually rather interesting.
The normal Freemont is a rebadged Dodge Journey. Engine-wise it can be equipped with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet 2 with variable geometry and the powerful Chrysler Group Pentastar 3.6 litre engines.
The Fiat Freemont AWD is the four-wheel drive version matched with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet 2 and 280 HP 3.6 V6 petrol engines, both offered with the new six-speed automatic transmission. The new all-wheel version aims at consolidating the already remarkable results so far achieved. In just six months of sales, the first Fiat vehicle produced from the partnership with the Chrysler Group won more than 25,000 orders to become the best-selling 7-seat car today in Italy. All-wheel drive for the greatest safety under all driving conditions The Fiat Freemont AWD active four-wheel drive system is on-demand, and it is equipped with an electronic control unit which uses sensors to detect the grip of the four wheels and decides when to transmit traction to the rear. Specifically, the electronic system modulates torque transfer through the use of electronically controlled coupling (ECC).
Fiat is taking part in the 2012 Geneva Motor Show with an appealing exhibition area that emphasises the brand’s unique position on the international motoring stage. Fiat 500 America and Fiat 500 Color Therapy: the latest innovations of a Made in Italy icon The “500 America” numbered edition will make its debut in Geneva, with the saloon version on display. With only 500 numbered saloon units and 500 numbered convertible units produced, the new Fiat 500 America is celebrating the country where the model was sold in 2011 and where its collaboration with the American pop singer Jennifer Lopez started. Fiat Punto 2012: the evolution of a best seller It is an important product innovation of Fiat’s best-selling model, with 8.5 million units sold in Europe. Together with its updated look, the two-cylinder 85 HP TwinAir turbo engine – named “International Engine of the Year 2011″ – is making its debut before the public in Geneva. Fiat Punto 2012 is already available from the Fiat sales network in Italy and in the major European countries.
The new four-wheel drive version is matched with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet 2 and 280 HP 3.6 V6 petrol engines, both offered with the new six-speed automatic transmission. Freemont AWD (All-Wheel Drive) is already available from the Fiat sales network in Italy and in the major European countries.
Fiat Panda, the first and second family car The new Panda 85 HP TwinAir Turbo with Dualogic gearbox will be sold starting from April.
Bravo Street: new high value features The Fiat Bravo Street makes its debut in Geneva. 120 HP Doblò 1.4 T-Jet: the only turbocharged petrol engine of the class Freedom and flexible use are also ensured by another model shown: the Fiat Doblò equipped with the new 120 HP 1.4 T-Jet engine. It is the only turbocharged petrol engine of the class, which completes the range and guarantees its offer in the highest demand petrol market segment, above 105 HP. It is precisely a 7-seater version that is on display in Geneva, strengthening the family space positioning of the model.
The Fiat Doblò 120 HP 1.4 T-Jet will be available starting from April.
The 2012 Punto for the first time, in a Fiat vehicle, offers the award-winning MultiAir engine, class-leading emissions mitigation technology, innovative technology and telematics and an unparalleled commitment to its robustness and reliability with a five-year 150 000km warranty.
Although it is an evolution of one of Fiat’s most popular cars in South Africa, the Fiat Punto, the 2012 Punto intensifies the distinguished personality of the vehicle with an important aesthetic update that includes new exterior colours and the seat upholsteries and class-leading features and technologies. The 2012 Punto is more stunning than ever thanks to the work of Fiat’s Centro Stile. The 2012 Punto is available with three engine derivatives: a 1.4l 8V Fully Integrated Robotic Engine (FIRE) producing 57kW at 6000rpm and 115Nm of torque at 3250rpm; a 1.4l MultiAir producing 77kW at 6500rpm and 130Nm of torque at 4000rpm; and finally the award-winning 1.4l MultiAir Turbo engine producing 99kW at 5000rpm and 206Nm of torque at 1750rpm.
For the first time on a Fiat product, the 2012 Punto features Stop&Start technology with a Gear Shift Indicator across the model range, which assists in reducing the vehicle’s emissions and offers better fuel consumption figures. The 2012 Punto range comprises of four models in three trim lines – Pop, Easy and Lounge – each featuring a different content offer with the aim of satisfying different needs and budgets. The Pop, Easy and Lounge trim levels address the traditional customer in a crescendo of comfort and style features.
The Pop trim level is available on the 2012 Punto entry model and offers a high level of comfort without compromising on convenience. The Lounge trim level is available exclusively on the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo model has a very high level of specification. The 2012 Punto is designed and built to achieve the highest levels of safety.
Fiat Punto 1.4 Pop: R129 900* Fiat Punto 1.4 Easy: R149 900* Fiat Punto 1.4 MultiAir Easy R169 900* Fiat Punto 1.4 MultiAir Turbo Lounge R209 900* Fiat also offers a four-year or 60 000km service plan on MultiAir models – 1.4 MultiAir Easy and 1.4 MultiAir Turbo Lounge. Eco Drive: 0.9 TwinAir 85 HP for new driving pleasure Together with the updated look the two-cylinder 85 HP 875 cc TwinAir turbo engine - named "International Engine of the Year 2011" - is making its debut. Normal provides full engine performance to enhance driving liveliness and spirit, while Eco, which limits the torque, reduces fuel consumption to ensure a driving style that is truly eco-friendly and more economical. Another innovation in the field of engines is the evolution of the 85 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2.
10 engines that meet all needs The Fiat Punto 2012 continues to be a constant point of reference when it comes to engine innovation. This long tradition of records is reinforced today with the Fiat Punto MY 2012 following introduction of the new 85 HP TwinAir turbo engine and the evolution of the 85 HP 1.3 MultiJet engine.
In particular, the Fun to Drive line offers the exclusive TwinAir trim level dedicated to the revolutionary two-cylinder engine. It is characterised aesthetically and internally with glossy black pillars and mirror covers, special alloy wheels, 13 exterior colours, one of which is dedicated, Energetico Green, the exclusive glossy black roof option and special "Sportex" seat fabrics.
The third-generation model of the Fiat Panda is created by the technical and human heritage. This is the age group and higher quality in terms of space, comfort, functionality, technology and security. It combines the best features of first and second generation cars. The intelligent vehicle is ideal for those who combine the practical management of a town car with space and comfort of a compact five-door. The Fiat Panda is one of them. Just Panda Fiat Panda is the epitome of substance, relevance and usefulness. In addition, the side windows are designed to maximize some performance issues. The Fiat Panda offers maximum freedom of use with its spacious interior, and comfortable, which in any way worse than that of luxury cars. The rear seat offers the same versatility. Maximum functionality is also thin in the front seat.
This technology is applied here for the first time in Fiat. The 14 storage compartments in the Fiat Panda are not only abundant and wide: for those who have designed and developed using the pandas every day for your daily needs. Finally, the new Fiat Panda innovative "Smart Fuel System", the classic and the cap is installed by the end of the filler neck replaced. More Panda Today, those who choose a small car does not want to give up technology in higher segment cars. It's always been a Fiat car near to the people of the city have been, and is now the turn of the Fiat Panda again. To protect the occupants, the new Fiat Panda 4 airbags (front and head protection window), ABS with Brake Assist complete (Brake Assist System), front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. Finally the new "low-speed collision mitigation system" a detailed look. The ingenious device of the new Panda integrates three complementary functions: automatic emergency braking (AEB), Prefill and Brake Assist. Finally, the control unit keeps the car for 2 seconds after the break to allow the driver to drive safely re-arrested normal. The Fiat Panda is a great car, the most advanced in terms of engine performance and fuel consumption and pollution control. The new 01/02 69 hp gasoline engine fire and II 75 hp 1.3 Multijet series with Start & Stop, the full range of engines. 85 hp 0.9 Twin Turbo First, a new family of twin-cylinder engine developed by Fiat Powertrain, the engine developed 85 hp turbo 0.9 TwinAir (63 kW) at 5500 rpm power and torque of 145 Nm at 1900 rpm (constant up 3000 rpm). MultiAir reduces emissions (due to improved combustion control) and improves performance by promoting maneuverability. 65 hp naturally aspirated 0.9 TwinAir The new Panda is Fiat Group Automobiles delivered the first car in its world premiere in the "sucked" TwinAir engine, maximum power of 65 hp (48 kW) at 6250 rpm and a torque of 88 Nm at 3500 rpm to do. 75 bhp 1.3 Multijet II Belonging to the second generation Multijet engines, this engine offers economic and ecological performance that no one else on the market. All petrol engines TwinAir 75 hp and the 1.3 Multijet II offer the Start & Stop system as standard. Specially designed for city driving, the system automatically cuts the engine when traffic conditions to stop the vehicle (traffic lights, traffic jams and temporary stations, for example) require, with all the features that ensure comfort and safety on board active (Headlamp Washers, automatic, radio and windshield). Turn off the engine when the car stops without fuel required (up to -15% for one cycle), reduces emissions and improves acoustic comfort. eco: Drive The eco: Drive is an easy "no cost" solution, which assists the driver to improve the efficiency of his journey, and reduces fuel consumption and emissions to be used. In fact, eco: Drive is the first and only system that can provide advice tailored to drivers for their driving style. With eco: Drive application available for free download Fiat (www.fiat.com / ecodrive) with Blue & Me system, users can collect information and stores them on a USB storage device. The high seating position, the gear lever in the center of the dashboard and large windows ensure the driver and passengers an excellent view and control of the road. Ergonomic and space at the highest level The final results of the new Panda is excellent in all major areas of ergonomic comfort, driving position, access. In particular, it offers an improvement over the current Fiat Panda from the main internal vertical (front and rear 7 mm + 4 mm) and side (front and rear 26 mm 5 mm) in size, the head of his category. Also, thanks to thinner front seats that improve accessibility (front + 23 mm + 6 mm at the rear) the feasibility of longitudinal space increased (20 mm) to provide rear passengers with more comfort. The new Panda is a car surprisingly large. In addition, 870 liters is reached with the seats folded. Compared to the second generation Fiat Panda, the boot volume is greater than 10 liters (normal configuration), in 36 liters when the rear seats folded. The Fiat Panda is a city car comfortable, spacious and quiet. Transfer to a large number of devices to an effective reduction of all types of noise in the cockpit was designed to develop new uses Panda. In addition to traditional heating and air conditioning manual, climate control quickly and efficiently for the new Fiat Panda was elected. The Fiat Panda is great and it shows easily and freely in their natural habitat: the city. Compared to the second generation, the new front suspension MacPherson novel Panda disposal. Ready for future applications, interfaces on the crossbar of the charge so-called third line significantly improved performance accident in a collision at high speed and low speed, pedestrian safety and affect insurance. The rear suspension torsion bar is larger than a bush with the new Fiat Panda today, offering comfort on rough roads, less noise, no basis for liability. Innovative chassis The chassis of the new Panda also includes an innovative feature developed according to two principles: security lighting, and vehicle weight. Executive double with 'City' function electric drive The new Fiat Panda adds features that change life on board a car to these specifications, such as drive electric power steering with dual function "City". Standard on the overall bandwidth than most systems on the market that offers the Fiat Panda unit to double customers an additional way: the choice between two different setting programs. The first offers the perfect sensation between driver and car. In short, it needed a new Panda a new plant. From a technical standpoint, the plant with highly automated production lines, the new Panda to (process) quality and reproducibility of results over time to ensure the facilities. The technique There are two side walls of the production lines on the sides of the production line of the body, the system takes the form of a butterfly, which led to the call of the system, exactly, "Butterfly" to do. If there are only three sophisticated "mechanical butterflies" of the Fiat-Chrysler, currently there is only an automatic assembly system for the moving parts of the body produces. The work is done on the system, manages and controls the work of machines. Quality The process of high quality and repeatability of the process by the new line of sheet metal is assured already been discussed. The center also has an innovative scanning photometric widely used for the new Panda. The new Fiat Panda, of course, through all the necessary function tests. ]People Technology, automation and flexibility in terms of production site Pomigliano Fiat is now a modern factory. Environment For the new Fiat Panda all processes have been developed based on the principles that allow the building to achieve the required environmental parameters. A series of advanced energy conservation have been used in metal processing and assembly. The innovative combination of automated and automatic transmission Dualogic LSCM twin is available after launch.
It is more beautiful, robust, more comfortable, safe and larger - the Fiat Palio has grown and evolved.
Three engines power the new Fiat Palio: Fire 1.0 EVO, Fire 1.4 EVO and 1.6 16V E.torQ, all of them Flex.
A significant change that attracts much attention to the new Fiat Palio is its size.
The body of the new Fiat Palio was developed in accordance with the latest design criteria. The new Fiat Palio brings the DNA of Italian design that combines functionality with a beautiful aesthetic quality. Internally, the new Fiat Palio is also full of surprises.
The Sporting version received a different dashboard. The indoor comfort is completed with the engineering work of by Fiat in the air-conditioning system. The excellent result of the new Fiat Palio positioned it as the best the market reference among manual systems.
The brake system of the new Fiat Palio was designed for safety and firmness. The new Fiat Palio features the braking correction valve that acts on the rear brake.
An interesting detail of the mechanical development of the new Fiat Palio was the layout of elements. The new Fiat Palio will be available with three engines: 1.0 Fire EVO, EVO Fire 1.4 16v and 1.6 E.torQ Flex. The Fire 1.0 EVO engine also equips the new Fiat Uno. It equips the Attractive 1.0 version of the new hatchback.
This engine was designed to provide good performance with fuel economy and low emissions. The Fire Engine 1.4 EVO equips the Attractive 1.4 version of the new Fiat Palio.
The Essence and Sporting versions feature the 1.6-liter 16v E.torQ Flex already equipping several other models manufactured by Fiat Automóveis and manufactured by Fiat Powertrain, at its plant in Campo Largo, Parana. This modern engine is notable for its low weight moving parts, high performance with fuel economy, reduced emission levels, low levels of noise and vibration, and high reliability Fiat Palio Attractive 1.0.
Optional items: air-conditioning, leather steering wheel with six radio controls, defroster windshield, front and/or rear power windows, electric locks on doors + automatic lock actuated at speed exceeding 20 km/h, exterior mirrors with electric adjustment, Logo Push (electric trunk opening system), airbag for the driver, front passenger airbag, ABS brakes, twilight sensor, rain sensor, electro chromic rearview mirror, two models of car stereo - CD player (one with USB and iPod input), 14' alloy wheels, fog lights, spoiler, switchblade key with remote control, and other equipment for comfort and style.
Fiat Palio Attractive 1.4. Besides the standard features present in the 1.0 engine version, the 1.4-liter version also features power locks + locking at speed over 20 km/h, Logo Push, front power windows with onetouch and anti-crush, glove compartment light, steering wheel with height adjustment, fog lamps, switchblade key with remote control, rear safety handles, footrest for the driver, storage compartments and glass holder.
The list of options in this version, with the exception of the items mentioned above and the 15" alloy wheels is the same as that of the Fiat Palio Attractive 1.0.
Fiat Palio Essence. This version incorporates all of the standard features of the Attractive 1.4 version, plus air-conditioning and chrome details in the interior, driver's seat with height adjustment, external temperature indicator, front reading lights with spot and 5.0 x 15" wheels with 185/60 R15" green tires.
Fiat Palio EssenceDualogic. Fiat Palio Sporting. It features a variety of esthetic details that highlight it as a sports model: black sports flaps on the rear, Sporting streaks on the sides and rear hatch, mini side skirts in black, chrome frame on the front fender, wheel box frames, dual chrome exhaust tip, external sports lining on column doors, black sports spoiler on front bumpers, biparabola headlights with black frame and cannon, and 16" alloy wheels + 195/55R16" green tires.
Internally, the version is distinguished by safety belts in sports color, sports covers on the pedals, sports inner door sills, details in sports colors on the gearshift handle, internal knobs and speaker rims, leather steering wheel and carpet with the Sporting inscription.
The customer can equip the Palio Sporting with several options: ABS brakes, front lateral airbags, airbag for the driver and/or the front passenger seat, rain sensor, twilight sensor, electro chromic rearview kit, anti-theft wheel bolts, two models of radio-CD player, rear power windows, and radio controls on the steering wheel.
Fiat Palio Sporting Dualogic. It has the same items of the mechanical Sporting version, plus the Dualogic® transmission and Cruise Control, and the same optional items of the version.
For anyone not familiar with the Abarth brand, it is an Italian race car manufacturer that’s now responsible for not only Fiat’s motorsports efforts but also for the tuning of some of its cars. You’ll recognize an Abarth by the menacing scorpion logo adorned to many of the cars.
You can also expect a price hike over the $15,500 asking price of the regular 2012 Fiat 500.
Look out for the debut of the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, press days for which kick off on November 16.
First introduced to Europe in 2008, the 500 Abarth is an absolute hoot to drive. (Abarth also makes the 180-plus-hp 695 Competizione, but it’s a limited-edition special.) We don’t yet know exactly how our car’s chassis will be spec’d—Fiat only says that the car is aimed at driving purists and track-day enthusiasts with an Abarth-tuned suspension and brakes, and “technology features not traditionally included on a small car.” The Abarth’s front fascia has a larger intake opening, accented by a subtle chin spoiler.
The Abarth 500C holds its previous model s good looks, thrilling styling and original Abarth parts to introduce exciting new ideas, power upgrades, and a host of useful equipment as standard.
Ivan Gibson, head of Abarth in the UK, said: "Joining together two winning formulas the convertible roof of the Fiat 500 and the style and performance of the Abarth 500 - will make the new Abarth 500C an irresistible proposition for many new customers"
Some performance modifications include a custom cold-air intake, high-flow exhaust, a strut-tower brace, and a large liftgate spoiler at the rear.
Inside, the Fiat 500 Titanium continues the athletic look with black leather trim highlighted by titanium look accents, sporty bucket seats, and black floor mats with a titanium look “500” logo.
As for the Fiat 500 Carbon, it’s based on the 2012 Fiat Sport model but gets a custom blue paint scheme, blackened exterior and interior appointments, a revised front bumper, 17-inch alloy wheels, and tinted glass.
Known also as the Cinquecento, the fiat 500 is the first Fiat to come stateside since the Fiat X1-9 of the early '80s and perhaps the first of additional tasty Italian cars heading our way now that Fiat and Chrysler have merged.
Like the current Mini, the fiat 500 is a nostalgia piece, an updated version of a charismatic original. The question is, will American's embrace this Italian import like they have the Mini?
I suspect that the enthusiasm flows from confidence about the fiat 500's distinctive personality, which—like BMW's reincarnated Mini Cooper—draws heavily on the car's cultural legacy. "There are 27 million Italian-Americans," says Laura Soave, CEO of Fiat in North America.
Soave points up the 500's advantage in this regard by comparing it to the Mini—a British original redesigned by a German carmaker—and the Ford Fiesta. Those cars, direct competitors with the 500, lack the "emotion" and "heritage" of the car that defined at least two generations of Italian drivers. The MultiAir technology "maximizes performance and minimizes emissions," basically by fine-tuning the intake-valve timing and lift, says Joe Grace, the Fiat vehicle line executive.
"Even driven hard," Grace says, "you'll get extremely good fuel economy."
The three models first to market are the Pop, Sport and Lounge. All look virtually identical—"cute" is the operative adjective—and have similar dimensions: At 140 inches long, 64 inches wide, 60 inches high and with a wheelbase of 91 inches, the 500 is slightly smaller than the Mini. Standard equipment is rather spare and includes a five-speed manual transmission, 15-inch wheels and cloth seats.
The Drive When I juiced the Sport on the twisty two-lane roads and punched the button that firms up the handling, the fiat 500 hugged the road nicely. I found the car perfectly able, cleverly designed—with fun touches, like the round headrests—and enjoyable to drive.
Remember Fiat? Remember the joke about Fiat meaning “Fix It Again, Tony”?
This dramatic comeback is widely credited to Sergio Marchionne, the Italian-Canadian turnaround specialist who took over in 2004 as CEO of Fiat Auto Group, the vehicle division of the Fiat SpA combine. More recently, Fiat formed a global strategic alliance with Chrysler. Future product plans have yet to be finalized, but early reports say Fiat products and platforms will play a significant part in future Chrysler offerings.
There are some interesting parallels between the British-sourced Mini and the U.S.-market Fiat 500. First, both were designed by Frank Stephenson, who joined Fiat after creating the 2002 Mini. The wagon may be a reprisal of the classic Fiat 500 Giardinetta; think Mini Cooper Clubman with an Italian accent. As a 2-door hatchback, which will surely be the mainstay seller, the Fiat 500 is about 5 inches shorter, over an inch slimmer, and 3.2 inches taller than the equivalent Mini Cooper. Both cars have front-wheel drive, pert retro styling, and seating for four. In the States, the 1.4-liter engine is rated at 101 horsepower.
Development mules are currently testing at Chrysler's Technical Center in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and it's assumed that the Fiat 500 Abarth New EV will have a range of around 100 miles. Expect the mini 'ute to debut at next year's Geneva Motor Show, with sales beginning in Europe late next year with the U.S. version arriving in 2013.
Fiat's LA Show debut is the sport version of 500 mini called the Abarth. It features an aggressive bodykit along with a tuned chassis and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine capable of delivering between 140HP and 180HP, depending on the model.
The Fiat 500 Abarth New spare tire is hung under the vehicle. Fiat, always listening to feedback from its customers, has come up with a solution:
The MOPAR Compact Spare Tire Kit for the FIAT 500. Part number - 82212995.
The dealer installed MOPAR Compact Spare Tire Kit will be priced at $275 plus installation.
The MOPAR kit now provides the flexibility for Studios to order the standard Tire Inflator Kit and then add the Compact Spare Tire kit at the time of sale. The North American debut of the Fiat 500 Abarth New by Gucci will be this Thursday during Fashion's Night Out in New York City. The European Tour for the launch of the convertible 500C by Gucci started officially on 19th August in Saint-Tropez. The first stop will be at Saint Tropez (from19 to 27 August) followed by Berlin (8 - 14 September), Barcelona (25 September - 2 October), London (16 - 23 October) and Geneva (23 - 30 October).
It was inevitable that once Fiat 500c 2012 (Sports Car) assumed control of Chrysler, we'd see Fiat products back in the U.S. market sooner or later.
It turned out to be sooner, as the tiny Fiat 500c 2012 (Sports Car) showed up early this year not at Chrysler dealers, but at dedicated Fiat dealers -- some of which also happen to sell Chryslers. To get a Fiat franchise, dealers had to agree to open a separate showroom for the Fiat, with a dedicated sales staff. Most Fiat dealers are doing that now, and the others must eventually. (By the way, Fiat dealerships are called "studios," which seems a bit precious.)
Fiat was requiring dealers to make a substantial investment not so much for the opportunity to sell the Fiat 500c 2012 (Sports Car), but to sell future Fiat products that will arrive in the next decade or so. Rust, electrical problems and traditionally complicated Italian mechanicals earned Fiat the unfortunate "Fix It Again, Tony" nickname.
What would Fiat stand for this time around?
Essentially following in the Mini's footsteps in the U.S., Fiat is hoping the 500 will capture younger buyers looking for something fun and frugal.
2012 Fiat 500C
Base price: $19,500
Price as tested: $26,050
Engine: 1.4-liter, 101-horsepower four-cylinder
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Length: 139.6 inches
Wheelbase: 90.6 inches
TESTED 2012 Fiat 500C
1.4-liter MultiAir in-line 4-cylinder (101 horsepower, 98 pound-feet of peak torque) with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive.
ALTERNATIVES? Mini Cooper convertible, $25,550; Smart Fortwo Cabrio, $18,440.
The brown car in question was the 2012 Fiat 500C, finished in an Espresso paint job with Marrone leather seats that looked as comfortable as a well-worn catcher’s mitt.
The 500C is the drop-top version of the 500 hatchback, a small and exceptionally cute car that’s big on style and economy, though rather short on rear legroom.
Acceleration is leisurely. After spending time with both the manual and automatic gearboxes, I’d counter the conventional wisdom and recommend the automatic. The magic stops momentarily at what Fiat refers to as the “spoiler” position, where the glass rear window stays upright. Rear visibility suffers when you roll back the roof, because the retracted top takes up much of the space where the rear window had been. All 500Cs come with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control and enough air bags (seven altogether) to turn the Fiat into a four-wheel flotation device. Fiat returns to U.S. with city-friendly models
I have been anxiously anticipating the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Fiat 500c 2012 (Sports Car) and 500c models that usher in Fiat’s return to North America.
The front-wheel drive, four-passenger subcompact is ideally suited for city driving. When equipped with the six-speed automatic, it has an EPA of 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.
While almost all of my driving this week was conducted in city driving conditions, I had no trouble at all on the highway — or cruising at highway speeds.
The new Fiat 500 and 500c Cabrio are worth a test drive.
MODEL:
2012 Fiat 500 and 500c
4-seat subcompact coupe and convertible
Front-wheel drive
Trim packages:
Pop, Lounge
PRICE RANGE:
$15,500 (coupe base) - $19,500 (Cabrio base)
ENGINE:
1.4-L I-4 (101 hp/98 torque)
TRANSMISSION:
5-speed manual
6-speed auto
EPA: 30/27 mpg city, 38/32 mpg highway (MT/AT)
FUEL: Regular unleaded (premium recommended)
TRACTION CONTROL:
Traction control with electronic stability control program
