- NEW MODEL NEWS – FIAT 500
FIAT has high hopes of securing a new cult following for its latest 500 city car line-up.
Refreshed models have just hit the streets with prices from £10,160 for the 1.2-litre Pop model.
And leading the way is a new flagship Cult trim grade, based on the Lounge version but with a host of extras.
A key new feature of the range is a seven-inch TFT digital instrument display, developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli.
Standard on 500S and Cult models – and optional on Lounge versions – its centre can be configured to show various trip computer readouts, such as distance travelled, instant fuel consumption and range.
The screen also reconfigures when the Sport button is activated on models equipped with the Italian brand’s 105bhp 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine.
As a result the ‘eco’ gauge, which measures how efficiently the driver is performing in real time, transforms into a turbo-boost measure.
This new TwinAir engine is another major development for the new-look 500.
Combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, it can accelerate from 0-62mph in 10 seconds and on to a top speed of 117mph, yet is still capable of 67.3mpg. CO2 emissions are 99g/km.
Continuing at entry level is the 69bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine while the TwinAir 85bhp turbo petrol and 1.3 16v MultiJet 95bhp turbo diesel complete the line-up.
Standard safety kit includes ABS with EBD, seven airbags including a driver’s knee bag, ISOFIX attachments, daytime running lights and a hill holder.
There are also new colours like Urban White, Smooth Mint and an Electronica Blue.
Prices start at £10,160 for the 1.2 69bhp Pop, the 500C Pop convertible is from £13,160 and the 500 Cult range is from £13,060 (£15,560 convertible).
