Key Takeaways
- Return of a nostalgic nameplate
- Body-color-matched interior lightens the mood
- 500C models not true convertibles; with canvas tops that open like accordians, the power-opening top performs more like a large sunroof
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What We Think
We hope Mini is up for this fight-the Fiat 500 is the only car in the same weight class. And, boy, is it cute.
With as much joy packed into its 90.6-inch wheelbase as possible, the return of the Fiat 500 to American shores is being met with ebullience in equal measure. Though the reborn model doesn’t hold to the original script—the 500 originally featured a rear-mounted air-cooled engine like the more-familiar-to-Americans Volkswagen Beetle—the spirit remains, resonant in the available color combinations and interior styling.
The Mini Cooper poses the most obvious comparison for shoppers, and for good reason. Both cars adhere to a don’t-take-oneself-too-seriously ethic, while delivering a unique driving experience predicated on antihumdrum designs. But the Fiat, with a its anemic 101-hp 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, falls far just short of matching the same lively drive character as the Mini. Still, the 500 does display a dexterous handling ability, and combined with the standard five-speed manual, driving the car is always engaging.
The convertible version only adds to the car’s bubbly appeal, with color choices to match—or clash with—the paint.
Available Styles
Compare Styles-
The two-door hatchback 2012 Fiat 500 Pop is powered by a 1.4-liter, 100-hp four-cylinder engine.
msrp $15,500- When gasoline prices go up, it'll be the next big thing
- Brand-new model, so there's exclusivity
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The 2012 Fiat 500 Sport has a 1.4-liter, 100-hp four-cylinder engine.
msrp $17,500- Check the SkyDome sunroof box
- Underpowered but makes up for it in efficiency
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The 2012 Fiat 500 Lounge is powered by the same 1.4-liter, 100-hp four-cylinder engine as the rest of the Fiat family.
msrp $19,500- Top trim line for less than $20,000
- Almost all options included
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Abarth trim injects the little Fiat 500 with a healthy dose of horsepower, plus attitude to spare.
msrp $22,000- 160 hp in a 2,533-pound car should be relatively entertaining
- Abarth trim gives the cutesy 500 a little more attitude
- Revival of a classic Italian performance nameplate
