This is the new Fiat 500, due to be officially launched to the public on 4 July, exactly 50 years after the original was unveiled.
Based on the mechanicals of the current Panda – but longer, wider and lower – Fiat has kept the styling very close to that of the Trepiuno concept shown at the 2004 Geneva show. It will be built in Poland at the Tychy factory, and will share its platform with the forthcoming new Ford Ka.
The new car abandons the ‘mobility for all’ principles of the original to tackle the style-led market so ably tapped by the current Mini. To that end, it seems we won’t get the most basic versions in the UK such as the 1.2 litre car, with prices over here starting at £11,000 when it goes on sale next January. In Europe, the 500 will be available from around £8,000.
According to Autocar magazine, a 155bhp 1.4 litre turbo Abarth model will be available. Said to follow the hardcore principles applied to all future Abarth models, this 500 will feature a new transmission, upgraded chassis and extensive body modifications.
 Upgraded interior |
 High quality dashboard |
So is this the latest fad urban runabout or the coolest small car out there. In the office we’re liking the thought this morning of an Abarth with 155bhp and a large scorpion logo on the bonnet.
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