Fiat 500 Cabrio

SPECIFICATIONS

1. The power-operated soft-top has three positions, including fully open and a sunroof option and is operable at speeds of up to 60 mph. 2. A standard Sport button elevates the steering, engine and shifting response for a quicker feel. 3. One engine is available, a 101-hp 1.4-liter 4-cylinder. 4. 500C models start at $19,500 with Lounge models at $22,500.

PREVIEW

Nicknamed the 500C, the cloth top Fiat 500 is a playful solution to rising gas prices and cluttered urban spaces. .

The base 500C Pop model starts $19,500 while the 500C Lounge version we tested equipped with better audio/tech features, more chrome and design elements sells for $22,500.

Finally the “pièce de résistance” is Gucci’s branded 500C starting at $27,750 for those looking to make a definite statement. Lovers of the high-end Italian brand will appreciate additional options include Gucci-inspired green and red branding, black or white exterior paint, and accoutrements such as a navigation.

INTERIOR

Giving the 500C a “Lounge” trim designation is fitting, with the only thing this cabin is missing to complete the sensation is a Dry Martini or glass of Chianti. The inside amenities and design of the cabrio are trendy, complimenting the exterior shell. In fact, some may notice that the Fiat interior resembles that of the revamped MINI with rounded instrumentation, bright plastics, two-tone leather trimmings and an overall premium feel. Far from a bad thing, it might disappoint some folks to know that the 500 is not completely original.

In addition to being a Lounge model, our tester was equipped with the optional Luxury Leather package which includes leather-trimmed seats plus heated driver and front passenger bucket seats. Regrettably, the seats feel extremely upright, similar to an office chair, meaning they aren’t very sporty or even relaxing.

Leather trim does come standard on the shift knob and steering wheel, while five two-tone leather trim options are available at your designing leisure. Further delights include a rearview mirror with an auto-dimming feature, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and rear 50/50 split fold-down seats.

On an audio-visual level, the 500C delivers with the BLUE&ME voice-activated convenience for music. Harmoniously accommodating the interior is a 6-speakers Bose audio system with a subwoofer tucked under the front-passenger seat. With the exception of the sit-at-attention seats, the loungy inside is a natural extension of the already amusing exterior.

                                  

UNDER THE HOOD

With retro looks style to the original 1957 500, that Italian icon was rear-wheel drive while this modern Americanized machine now moves the front wheels with 101 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. The city-ready cabriolet generates that power from a 1.4L engine available with either 6-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.

Like many small cars it comes with lighter fuel costs and supplies a solid 30-mpg city and 38-mpg hwy with the stick-shift, though automatic models are less impressive at just 27/32. Of note, however, for 2013 the cabrio's fuel efficiency is estimated to improve to 31/40 for the 5-speed manual and 27/34 for the automatic

Peppy and responsive, the 101-hp engine is aided by engaging Sport function, which comes standard on all Fiat models. The push-button feature elevates the steering and throttle response to help engage the driver.