Fiat has been out of America since the 80′s. Thanks to Chrysler (and a well timed buy-out) the Fiat 500 is back. This updated 500 has a design language reminiscent of the classic 1950′s style Fiat vehicles. The US-based Fiat 500 comes in three variants: Pop, Lounge and Sport. Pop and Lounge come with 15 inch wheels, the Sports comes with 16 inchers.
This car is small, in fact it’s almost as small as Smart Car’s “fortwo” model. The Italian auto maker is betting that 130 dealerships in the nation will be selling these vehicles like hot cakes to American buyers.
As far as performance, 500 comes with a 1.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder engine. The 101 hp powerplant pushes the 2500 lb-ft of torque two-door with ease. 500 takes each turn like a little speed demon. Handling is smooth and responsive with this engine, though Fiat plans to introduce an Abarth 500 with more power sometime in 2012.
Fiat reports an EPA estimated gas mileage of 33 mpg combined in manual, 30 mpg with its automatic.
Fiat claims there are “more than half a million ways to configure the 500.” Pricing starts at $15,500 for the base Pop variant. This includes: Power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD stereo with an MP3 jack are all standard.
Add in other options to the Lounge or Sport models, including moon roof, portable TomTom GPS or fog lights, and a 2012 Fiat 500 still only tops off around $24,000.
(Interior shots and article source: Kelsey Mays | Cars.com)