2014 FIAT 500L Wagon

PREVIEW

When Fiat returned to the U.S. in 2011, it was pretty much guaranteed that the ultracompact 500 hatchback would have narrow appeal. The 500's origins and soul are from Europe, where tight city streets and shorter distances between destinations make small cars a way of life. Fiat always planned to expand the 500 family to include a larger, more useful variation aimed at North American drivers, and now the 2014 Fiat 500L is here.

With two more doors, more than 2 feet of added length and as much interior volume as many full-size cars, the 2014 500L is a wholly different car from the standard Fiat 500: It's a compact wagon and it's close in size to many compact crossovers. High-mounted front seats give the driver and front passenger a commanding view of the road, and rear headroom and legroom are more plentiful than you might think.

This is also a much wider car than the 500 hatchback, and thanks to significant gains in shoulder room and hiproom, getting three children across in the backseat is a legitimate proposition. So is a stop at the grocery store on your way home: The Fiat 500L offers a comparatively titanic 23.1 cubic feet of capacity behind its rear seats compared with just 9.5 in the standard Fiat 500.

To accommodate all that extra size, the new 500L has a standard 160-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It provides ample power for quick trips around town, but not surprisingly, acceleration gets a bit more leisurely when you load up the whole family for a weekend road trip. Then again, most small-wagon and crossover buyers aren't expecting brisk performance.

The 2014 Fiat 500L's key rival is surely the Mini Cooper Countryman, and although the Mini offers sportier handling and the option of all-wheel drive, it's quite a bit slower unless you pony up for the more expensive S model and its turbocharged engine. Another option is the Nissan Juke: It's the quickest of the three with its base engine, but it isn't as roomy on the inside. The Mazda 5 is an interesting alternative if you don't mind a minivan, as it's enjoyable to drive and offers even more utility, thanks to its seven-passenger seating.

Of course, for not a lot more money, you could also think about getting a larger, more powerful crossover such as the Ford Escape or Honda CR-V. All of these vehicles might be too mainstream, however, if you're craving a small utility vehicle with a unique character and appearance. It's not for everyone, but the 2014 Fiat 500L successfully combines the elan of the standard 500 with the usefulness and room of a crossover.

FEATURES

The 2014 Fiat 500L is a four-door compact wagon sold in four trim levels: Pop, Easy, Trekking and Lounge.

The base-level Pop comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels; keyless entry; power windows and locks; air-conditioning; cruise control; six-way manually adjustable cloth front seats; a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls; a six-speaker CD stereo with a 5-inch touchscreen display, USB/iPod integration, an auxiliary input and voice control for audio functions; Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity; and 60/40 split-folding rear seats that recline and adjust fore and aft.

The Easy trim level adds 16-inch alloy wheels, body-colored exterior mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a front seat center console and armrest, upgraded seat fabric and a premium 520-watt audio system with six speakers. For 2014, Fiat is offering the optional Premier package, which includes a rearview camera, rear parking sensors and a larger 6.5-inch touchscreen interface with a navigation system, free of charge on all 500L Easy, Trekking or Lounge models.

Other option packages available starting with the Easy trim include a Popular Equipment group, which bundles dual-zone automatic climate control, a six-way power driver seat, rear armrest, auto-dimming rearview mirror and 115-volt power outlet; and the Beats audio group, which provides an upgraded amplifier and subwoofer for the audio system, plus satellite radio. A sunroof, heated seats, a compact spare tire and a black- or white-painted roof are à la carte options.

Move to the Trekking trim and the 2014 Fiat 500L gets 17-inch wheels, foglights, unique front and rear body panels and trim, two-tone interior trim and premium cloth upholstery. The 500L Trekking trim offers the same options as the Easy.

At the top of the 2014 Fiat 500L line you'll find the Lounge model, which reverts to 16-inch wheels but adds chrome exterior trim and mirrors; heated leather front seats with six-way power adjustments for the driver; dual-zone automatic climate control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Beats audio upgrade, sunroof, spare tire and white or black roof remain optional on the Lounge, and you can also order 17-inch wheels.

INTERIOR

Large doors, an upright roof line and high-mounted front seats make it easy to slide right into the 2014 Fiat 500L. The front seats are wide and comfortable, but not especially supportive if you like to drive quickly around corners. Once you're seated, you'll be struck by the expansive field of vision that comes from the wagon's large glass area. This imparts a unique sense of security, as the 500L driver enjoys practically unimpeded views in any direction.

The dashboard design of the 500L is contemporary, fresh and airy, complementing the overall impression of a light-filled interior. The dual-gauge instrument cluster looks modern, and the dials deliver needed information clearly, although some of the ancillary information in the center cluster display comes with small fonts and a slightly muddy presentation. The padded upper dash is particularly nice in this class, as is the generously sized infotainment interface.

The 500L's ample interior room is obvious in the backseat, where the car's width provides a comfortable perch for two adults or three children. There's a wealth of legroom, too, particularly if the sliding 60/40 seats are in their rearmost position.

If you drop the rear seatbacks, you can also stuff quite a bit of cargo in the back of this small wagon. The fact that the rear-seat backrests don't fold totally flat robs the 500L of a little utility, but its luggage compartment volume of 21.3 cubic feet surpasses that of the Countryman and the Juke.

UNDER THE HOOD

Every 2014 Fiat 500L is front-wheel drive and powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 160 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque. For all but the top-trim Lounge model, a six-speed manual transmission is standard. A six-speed automated manual transmission takes the place of a conventional automatic transmission. It's optional for the 500L Easy and Trekking and standard on the 500L Lounge.

With the manual transmission, the 1.4-liter Multiair engine delivers EPA-rated fuel economy numbers of 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg combined. The automanual version serves up 24/33/27 ratings, which is average for a small wagon/crossover. Fiat says a 500L with the automanual transmission will accelerate to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, a competitive if not invigorating performance for the class.

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2014 FIAT 500e Hatchback

PREVIEW

The prospect of avoiding gas stations can be an appealing one, especially if you live in a congested urban area. Just plug in your electric vehicle while you work or sleep and it'll be ready to drive the next time you are. The 2014 Fiat 500e hatchback satisfies this desire while offering all the style and personality of the regular, gasoline-powered Fiat 500.

Indeed, shoppers ready to embrace the inherent challenges of electric car ownership will likely find Fiat's EV quite enjoyable to drive. The 500e actually handles better than the gasoline-powered version, and its electric motor delivers immediate torque, which makes for noticeably quicker acceleration in any situation. What's more, the 2014 Fiat 500e can fully charge in four hours when plugged into a 240-volt outlet. Combine that with its above-average 87-mile rated range and it stacks up well against its all-electric rivals in the practicality department.

As much as we like driving the electric Fiat 500, the fact that it's only available to California residents is an obvious downside. And realistically, this two-door hatchback is only a two-passenger car. Yes, the 500e has four seats, but because of the intrusion of its battery pack, the rear seat isn't anywhere near as roomy or useful as the standard 500's backseat. And although the electric Fiat has cool, distinctive interior trim, it's still like the regular 500 in that there's an abundance of hard plastic, and the layout of the radio controls isn't exactly ergonomic.

Of course, there are now several choices for a small electric car, and we recommend checking out at least a couple of them (especially if you don't live in California). The 2014 Nissan Leaf has been around the longest, and that coupled with its low starting price and spacious interior makes it a solid pick for a small EV. It's quite a bit slower accelerating up to highway speeds, though. The nicely furnished 2014 Ford Focus Electric is the best option for buyers needing a true four-seater, though it, too, feels pokey compared with the 500e. The Chevrolet Spark EV is a relatively affordable choice for an electric car and it's even quicker than the Fiat, but its long recharging times (almost twice as long as the 500e's) are a potential hassle.

Within this group, the 2014 Fiat 500e is a good option if you're looking for an EV with sporty driving dynamics, respectable range and fairly rapid recharging times. It looks pretty good in orange, too.

FEATURES

The subcompact 500e is available as a two-door hatchback and is offered in a single, well-equipped trim level. It shares most of its exterior components with the standard, gasoline-powered 500, but wears unique front and rear fascias, wider side sills, smooth underbody components, a rear spoiler and distinct 15-inch alloy wheels, all tuned specifically for aerodynamics.

Standard features include heated mirrors, solar-tinted glass, keyless entry, automatic climate control, full power accessories, cruise control, manually adjustable heated front seats with driver-side height adjustment, vinyl (leatherette)/cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped tilt-adjustable steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and 50/50 split-folding rear seats. The standard electronics array includes rear parking sensors, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB/iPod integration, an auxiliary audio jack, a six-speaker Alpine audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, and a handheld TomTom navigation system with a 4.3-inch touchscreen that attaches to the 500e's dash (it can scan nearby charging stations and determine availability in real time).

A sunroof is optional, as is the e-Sport appearance package, which provides darkened exterior lamp bezels, orange exterior trim pieces and orange-accented wheels for a more customized look.

INTERIOR

The Fiat 500e comes generously trimmed with perforated leatherette upholstery with a nifty retro-inspired contrasting gradient pattern. Orange accents abound, whether you choose the white or black primary color scheme, and a coordinated, matte-finished body-color dashboard panel is standard. All 500e models ordered with the white interior theme also wear white-accented front and rear fascias and a white rear spoiler. As nice as everything looks, closer inspection reveals plenty of hard plastic and some of the same fit-and-finish flaws we've noticed in the regular 500.

Drivers face a unique 7-inch circular instrument cluster displaying power output, driving range, energy use, the battery pack's state of charge, speed, gear selection, mobile phone connection status and more. The coolness of the instrument panel is tempered by the clunky, dated design of the audio controls, however.

Not surprisingly, the battery and associated electrical components take up valuable cabin space, which is already at a premium in the small Fiat. Rear legroom shrinks 4 inches compared with the standard 500, while total cargo space (with the rear seats folded) is down to 26.3 cubic feet from 30.2 cubes. While the 500e is technically a four-passenger car, it is truly comfortable for two passengers only.

UNDER THE HOOD

The front-wheel-drive 2014 Fiat 500e has an 83-kilowatt electric motor capable of 111 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque. It's powered by a 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

During Autoexpress testing, the 2014 500e went from zero to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds -- a quick time for an EV in this price range.

The 500e should make it 87 miles on a charge, according to the EPA, so it compares favorably with the Chevrolet Spark (82 miles), electric Ford Focus (76 miles) and Nissan Leaf (75 miles). Our best range during testing was over 109 miles. The EPA gives the Fiat 500e an energy consumption estimate of 29 kWh per 100 miles rating (the lower the kWh number, the better here), which is on par with the Chevy and Nissan.

Equally important, the EPA says the 500e can fully recharge in four hours on a 240-volt outlet, and we confirmed this in our testing. That's as quick as a Leaf (with a 6.6kW charger), but a bit longer than the Focus Electric. If you have to plug into a 120-volt circuit, though, estimated charging time goes up considerably.

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2013 FIAT 500e Hatchback

PREVIEW

The current Fiat 500 has steadily amassed an adoring fan base that appreciates its nostalgic styling and city-friendly packaging. New for 2013, the all-electric Fiat 500e (yes, the "e" stands for electric) is an effort to add a few eco-minded drivers to the fold of Cinquecento devotees. They'll all be Californians, too, as Fiat plans to sell the 500e only in the Golden State initially.

Owning an electric car presents obvious challenges: EVs typically cost much more than their gasoline-powered counterparts, and you can't drive them as many miles before you have to recharge. Buying a pint-size Fiat 500 comes with its own challenges, the biggest of which is limited room for rear-seat passengers and cargo.

Neither set of problems is overcome on the all-electric version of the 500. In fact, with the battery pack and other related components gobbling up a fair chunk of what little backseat and cargo space the 500 offers to begin with, the 2013 Fiat 500e is effectively rendered a two-seater. On the other hand, the 500e boasts an EPA-estimated range of 87 miles, an above-average number for an EV. Further, Fiat says its EV hatchback can fully charge in less than four hours from a 240-volt outlet, also a good figure for this class. What's more, the 500e looks as sporty and chic as any other Fiat 500 and it basically drives like one, too.

Like other EVs, the 2013 Fiat 500e looks expensive at first glance, but once you add up the various federal, state and local government incentives (plus manufacturer rebates that Fiat plans to offer), the automaker insists it won't cost you much more than a comparably equipped gas-powered 500. Early adopters will also have access to a compelling lease program. Plus, there's Fiat's 500e Pass program, which grants 500e owners free access to rental cars for up to 12 days annually. That way, you're covered when you require a larger vehicle or want to take a road trip.

Overall, the charming and stylish Fiat 500e represents an attractive proposition for city dwellers wanting to make the switch to electric-powered transportation. However, if you live anywhere besides California, you'll have to look to the more widely available 2013 Ford Focus Electric, 2013 Honda Fit EVor 2013 Nissan Leaf instead.

FEATURES

The subcompact 500e is available as a two-door hatchback and offered in a single, well-equipped trim level. It shares most of its exterior components with the standard, gasoline-powered 500, but wears unique front and rear fascias, wider side sills, smooth underbody components, a rear spoiler and distinct 15-inch wheels, all tuned specifically for aerodynamics.

Standard features include heated mirrors, solar-tinted glass, keyless entry, automatic climate control, full power accessories, cruise control, manually adjustable heated front seats with driver-side height adjustment, leatherette/cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped tilt-adjustable steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and 50/50 split-folding rear seats. The standard electronics array includes rear parking sensors; a handheld TomTom navigation system with a 4.3-inch touchscreen that attaches to the 500e's dash (it can scan nearby charging stations and determine availability in real time); and a 276-watt, six-speaker Alpine audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, a USB/iPod port and an auxiliary audio jack.

A sunroof is optional, as is the e-Sport appearance package, which provides darkened exterior lamp bezels, orange exterior trim pieces and orange-accented wheels for a more customized look.

INTERIOR

The Fiat 500e comes generously trimmed with perforated leatherette upholstery with a nifty retro-inspired contrasting gradient pattern. Orange accents abound, whether you choose the white or black primary color scheme, and a coordinated, matte-finished body-color dashboard panel is standard. All 500e models ordered with the white interior theme also wear white-accented front and rear fascias and a white rear spoiler.

Drivers face a unique 7-inch, circular instrument cluster displaying power output, driving range, energy use, the battery pack's state of charge, speed, gear selection, mobile phone connection status and more.

Not surprisingly, the battery and associated electrical components eat into cabin space, which is already at a premium. Rear legroom shrinks 4 inches compared with the standard 500, while total cargo space (with the rear seats folded) is down to 26.3 cubic feet from 30.2 cubes. While the 500e is technically a four-passenger car, it is truly comfortable for only two.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2013 Fiat 500e has an 83-kilowatt electric motor capable of 111 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque. It's powered by a 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The Fiat's transmission is a single-speed unit operated via push-buttons on the dashboard.

The 500e should be able to make it about 87 miles on a charge according to the EPA, which compares favorably with the Fit EV (82 miles), electric Focus (76 miles) and Leaf (75 miles). The EPA gives the Fiat 500e an energy consumption estimate of 29 kWh per 100 miles rating (the lower the kWh number, the better here), which is on par with the Honda and Nissan. That translates to MPGe figures of 122 mpg city/108 mpg highway and 116 MPGe combined, which are good numbers for this class but slightly behind those of the Fit EV.

Fiat says the 500e can fully recharge in less than four hours on a 240-volt outlet. That's as quick as a Leaf (with a 6.6kW charger), but a bit longer than the Fit EV. If you have to plug into a 120-volt circuit, though, estimated charging time goes up to "less than 24 hours."

Even though it's heavier than the base gasoline 500, the 2013 500e should accelerate to 60 mph in about 9 seconds, according to Fiat. That would make it about as quick as the Fit EV.

Read Full Review

2014 FIAT 500 Hatchback

PREVIEW

You typically have to look well outside the economy car segment if you want a car with a high level of style and personality. But leave it to the Italians to come up with an exception. The 2014 Fiat 500 looks like nothing else on the road, it's personable and, depending on the model, it's actually pretty fun to drive.

Though diminutive in size, the Fiat 500 has been a modest hit for the Fiat brand. From the outside, the charm of the original Fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. This little car is easy to park in tight spaces, it has a pretty comfortable ride quality and it returns very good fuel economy if you pick the base engine and the manual transmission. If stellar mpg isn't your top concern, the sprightly Turbo and sporty Abarth models are more likely to put a grin on your face. A retracting fabric convertible roof is also available on most trims for an al fresco driving experience.

Did we mention it's Italian, though? Yes, there are some functional issues with the 500, and depending on your feelings toward the car, you might call them problems or dismiss them as part of its character. Coupes with the optional sunroof are noticeably short on headroom. Fiat says it has lowered the front passenger seat to help out this year, but given the snug quarters in here, taller adults are still likely to have an issue. Opting for the convertible certainly cures this problem, but creates another in the process as rearward visibility is reduced. Besides these drawbacks, points are also deducted for the 500's slow acceleration with the base engine, tiny rear seats, unintuitive controls, limited automatic transmission availability, reduced cargo capacity in the convertible version and decidedly budget-grade interior materials.

Comparisons to the Mini Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle are inevitable. Both are typically more expensive, but the new Mini is more customizable and sharper-driving, while the solid-feeling Beetle is roomier. And from a practical standpoint, traditional four-door economy cars like the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta just make more sense both financially and from a daily-use standpoint. Flawed as it is, though, the 2014 Fiat 500 still manages to cram a lot of style and fun into a small package.

FEATURES

Classified as a two-door subcompact, the 2014 Fiat 500 is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.

Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.

The Sport trim is only offered as a coupe and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a front passenger seat armrest, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler, perforated cloth seats and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.

The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.

To the Pop trim you can add the Beats Premium Audio package, which includes premium speakers with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and satellite radio. The Sport and Turbo trims are eligible for the Comfort and Convenience package that adds automatic climate control, satellite radio and heated front seats. A Luxury Leather package is available for Lounge models only and includes rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other options include a sunroof, various interior and exterior trim upgrades, an integrated TomTom navigation system and a wind deflector for convertibles.

Standing apart from the pack, the performance-focused Fiat 500 Abarth is outfitted similar to the Turbo trim but distinguishes itself with more power, distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks and sportier suspension tuning. Seventeen-inch wheels with summer performance tires are available as an option.

Two special-edition Fiat 500s are also new for 2014. The 1957 Edition (commemorating the year the original 500 was introduced) is based on the Lounge trim and features three charming vintage wheel designs, exterior color schemes and badging, along with unique leather combinations on the inside. The GQ Edition convertible, produced in concert with the popular men's magazine, takes the Turbo trim as a starting point and embellishes the exterior with more aggressive bodywork and adds premium leather treatments and trim inside.

INTERIOR

Inside, the 2014 Fiat 500 features a modern take on the old 500's interior design. It looks inviting enough, and two-tone interior color choices and the sporty treatments in higher trims increase the appeal. Materials quality, however, falls short of other compact economy car interiors, and there's an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. We've also found the 500's unintuitive control layout and the lack of knobs on the dashboard (even for the radio volume) to be a constant annoyance. The Blue & Me voice-activated iPod control is similarly frustrating to operate.

Despite its small footprint, the Fiat 500 can be surprisingly roomy for front occupants. The upright seating position provides a wealth of legroom for taller drivers, but the available sunroof cuts into headroom, and we'd advise skipping it if you're much past 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Rear-seat passengers will have a distinctly different experience, as there's very little head- or legroom available. Overall visibility is good in the hatchback, but the convertible's fully retracted top blocks out your rearward view.

Behind the hatchback's backseat you'll find 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space. Lower the backseat in the hatchback and you'll have 30.2 cubic feet of space available (though the load floor isn't completely flat). In prior years, this total capacity was better than the Mini Cooper's, but the redesigned 2014 Cooper hatchback has more space than the 500 now. Cargo capacity drops significantly in the convertible 500C, with only 5.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 23.4 with the seats stowed.

UNDER THE HOOD

Three engines are available on the 2014 Fiat 500. The Pop, Sport and Lounge models receive a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is available as an option.

In Autoexpress performance testing, a manual-equipped Fiat 500 Sport went from zero to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds -- that's about a second slower than the typical economy car. An automatic-equipped 500C was even slower in our testing, taking 12.4 seconds to reach 60 mph. The EPA estimates fuel economy at an excellent 34 mpg combined (31 city/40 highway) for the manual. The automatic's estimate of 30 mpg combined (27/34) is still admirable, but falls short of most rivals.

The Fiat 500 Turbo and GQ Edition gain a turbocharged version of the 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. At our test track, the Turbo posted a 0-60-mph time of 8.1 seconds, which is notably better than the base engine. Fuel economy is estimated at 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway).

The Abarth model's upgraded turbocharged engine increases power to 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed manual is again the only transmission offered. Fuel economy estimates remain identical to those for the 500 Turbo. In Autoexpress testing, the Abarth coupe sprinted to 60 mph in a quick 7.1 seconds.

Read Full Review

2014 FIAT 500 Convertible

PREVIEW

You typically have to look well outside the economy car segment if you want a car with a high level of style and personality. But leave it to the Italians to come up with an exception. The 2014 Fiat 500 looks like nothing else on the road, it's personable and, depending on the model, it's actually pretty fun to drive.

Though diminutive in size, the Fiat 500 has been a modest hit for the Fiat brand. From the outside, the charm of the original Fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. This little car is easy to park in tight spaces, it has a pretty comfortable ride quality and it returns very good fuel economy if you pick the base engine and the manual transmission. If stellar mpg isn't your top concern, the sprightly Turbo and sporty Abarth models are more likely to put a grin on your face. A retracting fabric convertible roof is also available on most trims for an al fresco driving experience.

Did we mention it's Italian, though? Yes, there are some functional issues with the 500, and depending on your feelings toward the car, you might call them problems or dismiss them as part of its character. Coupes with the optional sunroof are noticeably short on headroom. Fiat says it has lowered the front passenger seat to help out this year, but given the snug quarters in here, taller adults are still likely to have an issue. Opting for the convertible certainly cures this problem, but creates another in the process as rearward visibility is reduced. Besides these drawbacks, points are also deducted for the 500's slow acceleration with the base engine, tiny rear seats, unintuitive controls, limited automatic transmission availability, reduced cargo capacity in the convertible version and decidedly budget-grade interior materials.

Comparisons to the Mini Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle are inevitable. Both are typically more expensive, but the new Mini is more customizable and sharper-driving, while the solid-feeling Beetle is roomier. And from a practical standpoint, traditional four-door economy cars like the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta just make more sense both financially and from a daily-use standpoint. Flawed as it is, though, the 2014 Fiat 500 still manages to cram a lot of style and fun into a small package.

FEATURES

Classified as a two-door subcompact, the 2014 Fiat 500 is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.

Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.

The Sport trim is only offered as a coupe and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a front passenger seat armrest, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler, perforated cloth seats and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.

The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.

To the Pop trim you can add the Beats Premium Audio package, which includes premium speakers with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and satellite radio. The Sport and Turbo trims are eligible for the Comfort and Convenience package that adds automatic climate control, satellite radio and heated front seats. A Luxury Leather package is available for Lounge models only and includes rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other options include a sunroof, various interior and exterior trim upgrades, an integrated TomTom navigation system and a wind deflector for convertibles.

Standing apart from the pack, the performance-focused Fiat 500 Abarth is outfitted similar to the Turbo trim but distinguishes itself with more power, distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks and sportier suspension tuning. Seventeen-inch wheels with summer performance tires are available as an option.

Two special-edition Fiat 500s are also new for 2014. The 1957 Edition (commemorating the year the original 500 was introduced) is based on the Lounge trim and features three charming vintage wheel designs, exterior color schemes and badging, along with unique leather combinations on the inside. The GQ Edition convertible, produced in concert with the popular men's magazine, takes the Turbo trim as a starting point and embellishes the exterior with more aggressive bodywork and adds premium leather treatments and trim inside.

INTERIOR

Inside, the 2014 Fiat 500 features a modern take on the old 500's interior design. It looks inviting enough, and two-tone interior color choices and the sporty treatments in higher trims increase the appeal. Materials quality, however, falls short of other compact economy car interiors, and there's an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. We've also found the 500's unintuitive control layout and the lack of knobs on the dashboard (even for the radio volume) to be a constant annoyance. The Blue & Me voice-activated iPod control is similarly frustrating to operate.

Despite its small footprint, the Fiat 500 can be surprisingly roomy for front occupants. The upright seating position provides a wealth of legroom for taller drivers, but the available sunroof cuts into headroom, and we'd advise skipping it if you're much past 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Rear-seat passengers will have a distinctly different experience, as there's very little head- or legroom available. Overall visibility is good in the hatchback, but the convertible's fully retracted top blocks out your rearward view.

Behind the hatchback's backseat you'll find 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space. Lower the backseat in the hatchback and you'll have 30.2 cubic feet of space available (though the load floor isn't completely flat). In prior years, this total capacity was better than the Mini Cooper's, but the redesigned 2014 Cooper hatchback has more space than the 500 now. Cargo capacity drops significantly in the convertible 500C, with only 5.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 23.4 with the seats stowed.

UNDER THE HOOD

Three engines are available on the 2014 Fiat 500. The Pop, Sport and Lounge models receive a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is available as an option.

In Autoexpress performance testing, a manual-equipped Fiat 500 Sport went from zero to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds -- that's about a second slower than the typical economy car. An automatic-equipped 500C was even slower in our testing, taking 12.4 seconds to reach 60 mph. The EPA estimates fuel economy at an excellent 34 mpg combined (31 city/40 highway) for the manual. The automatic's estimate of 30 mpg combined (27/34) is still admirable, but falls short of most rivals.

The Fiat 500 Turbo and GQ Edition gain a turbocharged version of the 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. At our test track, the Turbo posted a 0-60-mph time of 8.1 seconds, which is notably better than the base engine. Fuel economy is estimated at 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway).

The Abarth model's upgraded turbocharged engine increases power to 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed manual is again the only transmission offered. Fuel economy estimates remain identical to those for the 500 Turbo. In Autoexpress testing, the Abarth coupe sprinted to 60 mph in a quick 7.1 seconds.

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2014 FIAT 500 C Abarth

PREVIEW

You typically have to look well outside the economy car segment if you want a car with a high level of style and personality. But leave it to the Italians to come up with an exception. The 2014 Fiat 500 looks like nothing else on the road, it's personable and, depending on the model, it's actually pretty fun to drive.

Though diminutive in size, the Fiat 500 has been a modest hit for the Fiat brand. From the outside, the charm of the original Fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. This little car is easy to park in tight spaces, it has a pretty comfortable ride quality and it returns very good fuel economy if you pick the base engine and the manual transmission. If stellar mpg isn't your top concern, the sprightly Turbo and sporty Abarth models are more likely to put a grin on your face. A retracting fabric convertible roof is also available on most trims for an al fresco driving experience.

Did we mention it's Italian, though? Yes, there are some functional issues with the 500, and depending on your feelings toward the car, you might call them problems or dismiss them as part of its character. Coupes with the optional sunroof are noticeably short on headroom. Fiat says it has lowered the front passenger seat to help out this year, but given the snug quarters in here, taller adults are still likely to have an issue. Opting for the convertible certainly cures this problem, but creates another in the process as rearward visibility is reduced. Besides these drawbacks, points are also deducted for the 500's slow acceleration with the base engine, tiny rear seats, unintuitive controls, limited automatic transmission availability, reduced cargo capacity in the convertible version and decidedly budget-grade interior materials.

Comparisons to the Mini Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle are inevitable. Both are typically more expensive, but the new Mini is more customizable and sharper-driving, while the solid-feeling Beetle is roomier. And from a practical standpoint, traditional four-door economy cars like the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta just make more sense both financially and from a daily-use standpoint. Flawed as it is, though, the 2014 Fiat 500 still manages to cram a lot of style and fun into a small package.

FEATURES

Classified as a two-door subcompact, the 2014 Fiat 500 is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.

Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.

The Sport trim is only offered as a coupe and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a front passenger seat armrest, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler, perforated cloth seats and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.

The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.

To the Pop trim you can add the Beats Premium Audio package, which includes premium speakers with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and satellite radio. The Sport and Turbo trims are eligible for the Comfort and Convenience package that adds automatic climate control, satellite radio and heated front seats. A Luxury Leather package is available for Lounge models only and includes rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other options include a sunroof, various interior and exterior trim upgrades, an integrated TomTom navigation system and a wind deflector for convertibles.

Standing apart from the pack, the performance-focused Fiat 500 Abarth is outfitted similar to the Turbo trim but distinguishes itself with more power, distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks and sportier suspension tuning. Seventeen-inch wheels with summer performance tires are available as an option.

Two special-edition Fiat 500s are also new for 2014. The 1957 Edition (commemorating the year the original 500 was introduced) is based on the Lounge trim and features three charming vintage wheel designs, exterior color schemes and badging, along with unique leather combinations on the inside. The GQ Edition convertible, produced in concert with the popular men's magazine, takes the Turbo trim as a starting point and embellishes the exterior with more aggressive bodywork and adds premium leather treatments and trim inside.

INTERIOR

Inside, the 2014 Fiat 500 features a modern take on the old 500's interior design. It looks inviting enough, and two-tone interior color choices and the sporty treatments in higher trims increase the appeal. Materials quality, however, falls short of other compact economy car interiors, and there's an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. We've also found the 500's unintuitive control layout and the lack of knobs on the dashboard (even for the radio volume) to be a constant annoyance. The Blue & Me voice-activated iPod control is similarly frustrating to operate.

Despite its small footprint, the Fiat 500 can be surprisingly roomy for front occupants. The upright seating position provides a wealth of legroom for taller drivers, but the available sunroof cuts into headroom, and we'd advise skipping it if you're much past 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Rear-seat passengers will have a distinctly different experience, as there's very little head- or legroom available. Overall visibility is good in the hatchback, but the convertible's fully retracted top blocks out your rearward view.

Behind the hatchback's backseat you'll find 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space. Lower the backseat in the hatchback and you'll have 30.2 cubic feet of space available (though the load floor isn't completely flat). In prior years, this total capacity was better than the Mini Cooper's, but the redesigned 2014 Cooper hatchback has more space than the 500 now. Cargo capacity drops significantly in the convertible 500C, with only 5.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 23.4 with the seats stowed.

UNDER THE HOOD

Three engines are available on the 2014 Fiat 500. The Pop, Sport and Lounge models receive a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is available as an option.

In Autoexpress performance testing, a manual-equipped Fiat 500 Sport went from zero to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds -- that's about a second slower than the typical economy car. An automatic-equipped 500C was even slower in our testing, taking 12.4 seconds to reach 60 mph. The EPA estimates fuel economy at an excellent 34 mpg combined (31 city/40 highway) for the manual. The automatic's estimate of 30 mpg combined (27/34) is still admirable, but falls short of most rivals.

The Fiat 500 Turbo and GQ Edition gain a turbocharged version of the 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. At our test track, the Turbo posted a 0-60-mph time of 8.1 seconds, which is notably better than the base engine. Fuel economy is estimated at 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway).

The Abarth model's upgraded turbocharged engine increases power to 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed manual is again the only transmission offered. Fuel economy estimates remain identical to those for the 500 Turbo. In Autoexpress testing, the Abarth coupe sprinted to 60 mph in a quick 7.1 seconds.

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2013 FIAT 500 Hatchback

PREVIEW

Not too long ago, the words "compact" and "economical" were equated with cheap and dull when it came to cars. Nowadays, it seems as if some small and affordable transports are not just agreeable and fun, but even desirable. Leading the charge is the 2013 Fiat 500, with its distinctly Italian take on the subcompact.

As one of the smallest cars on sale today, the Fiat 500 somehow manages to deliver heartily on a number of levels. From the outside, the charm of the original Fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. Inside, front passengers are treated to a surprisingly spacious cabin that is adorned with plenty of contemporary niceties. Add to that a pleasantly lively driving experience and favorable fuel economy figures, and it's no wonder why the Fiat 500 is one of our top recommended coupes.

With a variety of trim levels and the availability of convertible models, there seems to be a Fiat 500 for a wide range of tastes and budgets. For 2013, a new 500 Turbo model bridges the gap between the standard engine and performance-focused Abarth, while the latter is now also available in a convertible version.

Still, there are a few drawbacks that shoppers should be aware of. Taller folks should steer clear of the optional sunroof that cuts into headroom. Obviously, headroom's not a concern with the convertible models, but their lack of rear visibility is. Drivers with a penchant for performance may also want to upgrade to the new Turbo model, as the base engine is on the weak side and the automatic transmission further reinforces this feeling.

Still, the 2013 Fiat 500's flaws are no more egregious than those of its rivals. Comparisons to the 2013 Mini Cooper are inevitable, as both offer an abundance of personality and fun behind the wheel. The Fiat does have an edge over the Mini in terms of affordability and also benefits from a more compliant ride quality. The 2013 Scion iQ may also be of interest, but comes up short when it comes to practicality. The new 2013 Chevrolet Spark, on the other hand, has plenty of space, but isn't nearly as fun to drive or tantalizing as the Fiat 500.

FEATURES

The 2013 Fiat 500 is classified as a two-door subcompact and is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.

Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.

Stepping up to the Sport trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.

The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.

To the Pop trim, you can add the Beats Premium Audio package, which includes premium speakers with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and satellite radio. The Sport and Turbo trims are eligible for the Comfort and Convenience package that adds automatic climate control, satellite radio and heated front seats. A Luxury Leather package is available for Lounge models only and includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rear parking sensors.

Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other options include a sunroof, an integrated TomTom navigation system and a wind deflector for convertibles.

Standing apart from the pack, the performance-focused Fiat 500 Abarth is outfitted similar to the Turbo trim but further distinguishes itself with more power, distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks and sportier suspension tuning. Seventeen-inch wheels with performance tires are available as an option.

INTERIOR

While the Fiat 500's retro styling screams "Mini fighter," its interior raises the decibels even further. It doesn't possess as many customization options and accessories as its British archrival, but the 500 does offer snazzy two-tone color schemes and plenty of neat little design cues. It also has a more straightforward control layout than the form-over-function Mini. However, the available "Blue & Me" voice-activated iPod control is practically unusable, leaving you to use the standard auxiliary jack.

As for interior quality, the Fiat is not quite up to the Mini's level. There are more hard surfaces, but compared to other cars in its modest price range, they are pleasingly textured and generally higher in quality.

Though the Fiat 500 is one of the smallest cars sold in the United States, its high-mounted front seats allow for an impressive amount of legroom even for tall drivers. Sadly, however, those same tall drivers will find their heads grazing the headliner should they get a car with the available sunroof. Headroom is always tight in the backseat, as is legroom. Unlike most other convertibles, the 500C does not suffer diminished interior space. Rearward visibility with the top fully retracted is poor, however.

Behind the hatchback's backseat you'll find 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space, considerably more than what's offered by the Mini. Lower the backseat in the hatchback and although the load floor isn't completely flat, you'll have 30.2 cubic feet of space available, or about 25 percent more than you'll get in a Cooper hatchback.

UNDER THE HOOD

There are three engines offered in the 2013 Fiat 500 lineup. The Pop, Sport and Lounge models receive a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, which is standard, with a six-speed automatic available as an option.

In Autoexpress performance testing, a manual-equipped Fiat 500 Sport went from zero to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds with the manual transmission -- about 1.5 seconds slower than a base Mini. An automatic-equipped 500C hit 60 mph in a rather slow 12.4 seconds. The EPA estimates fuel economy at an excellent 31 mpg city/40 mpg highway and 34 mpg in combined driving for the manual. The automatic's estimate of 27/34/30 mpg is still admirable, but falls short of most rivals.

The new Fiat 500 Turbo boosts output to 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. At the test track the Turbo posted a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds, which is notably better than the base engine. Fuel economy is estimated at 28/34/31 mpg.

The Abarth model further increases power to 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, yet fuel economy estimates remain identical to the 500 Turbo. In Autoexpress testing, the Abarth coupe sprinted to 60 mph in a quick 7.1 seconds.

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2013 FIAT 500 Convertible

PREVIEW

Not too long ago, the words "compact" and "economical" were equated with cheap and dull when it came to cars. Nowadays, it seems as if some small and affordable transports are not just agreeable and fun, but even desirable. Leading the charge is the 2013 Fiat 500, with its distinctly Italian take on the subcompact.

As one of the smallest cars on sale today, the Fiat 500 somehow manages to deliver heartily on a number of levels. From the outside, the charm of the original Fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. Inside, front passengers are treated to a surprisingly spacious cabin that is adorned with plenty of contemporary niceties. Add to that a pleasantly lively driving experience and favorable fuel economy figures, and it's no wonder why the Fiat 500 is one of our top recommended coupes.

With a variety of trim levels and the availability of convertible models, there seems to be a Fiat 500 for a wide range of tastes and budgets. For 2013, a new 500 Turbo model bridges the gap between the standard engine and performance-focused Abarth, while the latter is now also available in a convertible version.

Still, there are a few drawbacks that shoppers should be aware of. Taller folks should steer clear of the optional sunroof that cuts into headroom. Obviously, headroom's not a concern with the convertible models, but their lack of rear visibility is. Drivers with a penchant for performance may also want to upgrade to the new Turbo model, as the base engine is on the weak side and the automatic transmission further reinforces this feeling.

Still, the 2013 Fiat 500's flaws are no more egregious than those of its rivals. Comparisons to the 2013 Mini Cooper are inevitable, as both offer an abundance of personality and fun behind the wheel. The Fiat does have an edge over the Mini in terms of affordability and also benefits from a more compliant ride quality. The 2013 Scion iQ may also be of interest, but comes up short when it comes to practicality. The new 2013 Chevrolet Spark, on the other hand, has plenty of space, but isn't nearly as fun to drive or tantalizing as the Fiat 500.

FEATURES

The 2013 Fiat 500 is classified as a two-door subcompact and is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.

Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.

Stepping up to the Sport trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.

The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.

To the Pop trim, you can add the Beats Premium Audio package, which includes premium speakers with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and satellite radio. The Sport and Turbo trims are eligible for the Comfort and Convenience package that adds automatic climate control, satellite radio and heated front seats. A Luxury Leather package is available for Lounge models only and includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rear parking sensors.

Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other options include a sunroof, an integrated TomTom navigation system and a wind deflector for convertibles.

Standing apart from the pack, the performance-focused Fiat 500 Abarth is outfitted similar to the Turbo trim but further distinguishes itself with more power, distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks and sportier suspension tuning. Seventeen-inch wheels with performance tires are available as an option.

INTERIOR

While the Fiat 500's retro styling screams "Mini fighter," its interior raises the decibels even further. It doesn't possess as many customization options and accessories as its British archrival, but the 500 does offer snazzy two-tone color schemes and plenty of neat little design cues. It also has a more straightforward control layout than the form-over-function Mini. However, the available "Blue & Me" voice-activated iPod control is practically unusable, leaving you to use the standard auxiliary jack.

As for interior quality, the Fiat is not quite up to the Mini's level. There are more hard surfaces, but compared to other cars in its modest price range, they are pleasingly textured and generally higher in quality.

Though the Fiat 500 is one of the smallest cars sold in the United States, its high-mounted front seats allow for an impressive amount of legroom even for tall drivers. Sadly, however, those same tall drivers will find their heads grazing the headliner should they get a car with the available sunroof. Headroom is always tight in the backseat, as is legroom. Unlike most other convertibles, the 500C does not suffer diminished interior space. Rearward visibility with the top fully retracted is poor, however.

Behind the hatchback's backseat you'll find 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space, considerably more than what's offered by the Mini. Lower the backseat in the hatchback and although the load floor isn't completely flat, you'll have 30.2 cubic feet of space available, or about 25 percent more than you'll get in a Cooper hatchback.

UNDER THE HOOD

There are three engines offered in the 2013 Fiat 500 lineup. The Pop, Sport and Lounge models receive a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, which is standard, with a six-speed automatic available as an option.

In Autoexpress performance testing, a manual-equipped Fiat 500 Sport went from zero to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds with the manual transmission -- about 1.5 seconds slower than a base Mini. An automatic-equipped 500C hit 60 mph in a rather slow 12.4 seconds. The EPA estimates fuel economy at an excellent 31 mpg city/40 mpg highway and 34 mpg in combined driving for the manual. The automatic's estimate of 27/34/30 mpg is still admirable, but falls short of most rivals.

The new Fiat 500 Turbo boosts output to 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. At the test track the Turbo posted a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds, which is notably better than the base engine. Fuel economy is estimated at 28/34/31 mpg.

The Abarth model further increases power to 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, yet fuel economy estimates remain identical to the 500 Turbo. In Autoexpress testing, the Abarth coupe sprinted to 60 mph in a quick 7.1 seconds.

Read Full Review