FIAT 500: We Test Drive The New Subcompact

 

Fiat

 

More than 25 years ago, Fiat packed up and left the U.S. with a tarnished reputation over quality and capability leaving only the die-hard fans to carry on as they wondered if the company would ever return.
Well guess who just pulled back into town dressed in some hot Italian designs and sporting a small but sleek look. The much anticipated Fiat 500 sub-compact is ready to take on all comers as it looks to attract 50,000 buyers this year alone in the U.S. and Canada.
The Pop, Sport and Lounge models will offer consumers the choice of 14 paint colors including sophisticated Espresso and sizzling Rosso Brillante. Buyers can also choose seat colors, wheels and decals to overlay the outside of their vehicle. There is also an option to individualize your key fob.
There is no getting around it that the smaller size is the first to cause some wonder. But inside the fears of a sub-compact confinement quickly slip away. The Sport provides ample headroom combined with the positioning of the front seats creates a sensation that both driver and passenger are riding high rather than climbing in and out the vehicle. The seating position also eases any feeling of size envy rolling down six lanes of traffic filled with SUVs and pickup trucks.
The Fiat delivers a pleasant surprise in the roominess in the front seats, and the simple touch of giving the driver and arm rest helps to establish two comfortable zones. As a six-foot tall driver, I had no problem hopping behind the wheel or riding shotgun. The instrument panel has a clean look with a half-circle speedometer that tucks nicely under the steering wheel.
Instead of a traditional center console cutting the car in two, the 500’s lower instrument panel –shaped almost like a guitar pick – holds the styled shifting knob, window controls and heating and air conditioning.
Although the back seat can accommodate two adults, this car is aimed straight at urban dwellers who are looking for some style during their commute to work or on grocery runs, rather than piling everyone in for a family weekend trip. The hatchback space is big enough to fit two carry-on roller bag suitcases side-by-side. Folding down the seats gives just enough space to fit a golf bag.
On the road, the 500 holds the twisting curves while giving a surprisingly quiet ride absent of wind whistles and the vibration of pavement. The large sunroof has a pull-out screen although the wind noise can get loud, especially on a windy day.
The Fiat 500s begin hitting showrooms in February. About 135 dealers are now working to prepare their Fiat stores, which will look more like a styling studio complete with an espresso bar. Some dealers are even allowing local artists to hang their works in the studio just to add some flare.
The Pop starts at $15,500 – not including the destination charge – while the Sport is $17,500 and the Lounge is $19,500. Buyers who want to totally individualize their vehicle will have to wait four to six weeks from order. The automatic version delivers 27 miles per gallon in the city and 34 highway while the manual offers 30 in the city and 38 on the highway.