We'd argue there remains no more stylish way to go topless than Fiat's 500c. This little car has been around since the 2012 model year, and nothing since has brought so much style to a near-entry level price point.
The 500c (as distinct from the 500 hatchback) is unique among convertibles for a roof that drops its top while maintaining some of its roof structure, which we imagine improves structural rigidity compared to more conventional convertibles. The downside is a less complete open-air experience.
Like the 500 hatchback, the 500c draws easy comparisons with the Mini Cooper, but this is a softer, gentler retro-styled subcompact car that only really gets exciting in turbocharged Abarth form, which goes a little too far into all-out performance territory than many drivers are willing to follow.
Fiat has trimmed the 500 lineup for 2017 down to Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims. Pop and Lounge models get the same 1.4L MultiAir four-cylinder engine as before, making 101 hp and 97 lb-ft of torque, available with a choice of five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. From there, the only way is way up to the Abarth's turbo 1.4L, with its 160 hp and 170 lb-ft (five-speed manual) or 157 hp and 183 lb-ft with the six-speed automatic.
Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption estimates for the 500 range from 8.0/6.5 L/100 km (city/highway) for a Pop or Lounge with the five-speed manual transmission, to 9.7/7.4 L/100 km in an Abarth automatic. If economy is high on your list, the stickshift versions of this car are best.
Standard features in the 500 Pop include body-colour instrument panel trim, electronic vehicle information centre, front floor mats and reading lights, leather-trimmed steering wheel, Uconnect infotainment with five-inch touchscreen, media centre with auxiliary input and two USB ports, power windows and locks, tilt steering, 50/50 split-folding rear seat, sun visors with vanity mirrors, halogen projector headlights, rear window wiper/washer, 15-inch steel wheels with covers, engine block heater, keyless entry and tire pressure monitoring and a tire service kit.
Lounge trim adds a seven-inch customizable gauge cluster display, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, chome shifter, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors in chrome housings, fog lights, panoramic glass roof, premium audio system with satellite radio, passenger assist handle, leather-faced seats, heated front seats and 15-inch aluminum wheels.
Abarth trim brings the more potent engine, performance-tuned suspension and brakes with red calipers, 16-inch wheels, unique body trim and badging, performance front bucket seats with racing harness pass-through, flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum pedal covers, cruise control and three-mode stability control system.
Pricing starts at $23,245 for a Pop model, and increases to $27,945 for Lounge trim and $32,245 for an Abarth version.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
