Vehicle Overview
The two-door, four-seat Fiat 500 competes with subcompact cars like the Mini Cooper and Smart ForTwo. A cabrio version, dubbed 500c, is available, and buyers can also opt for a high-performance Abarth model or, in select states, the fully electric 500e. All versions have front-wheel drive.
(Skip to details on the: 500c, 500e, 500 Abarth)
New for 2016
A new Easy trim level slots between the Pop and Sport models and has a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, Alpine premium audio and 15-inch aluminum wheels. All models have a standard Uconnect multimedia system with a 5-inch touch-screen and Bluetooth connectivity.
Significant Standard Features
- Uconnect multimedia system with Bluetooth
- Power-adjustable heated side mirrors
- Rear spoiler
- 50/50-split folding backseat
- Cruise control
- Remote keyless entry
- Air conditioning
- Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
Significant Available Features
- 135-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine (Turbo)
- Power sunroof
- Navigation system
- Automatic temperature control
- BeatsAudio premium sound system
500c
The 500c has a cloth top with various retraction settings, from a sunroof-like ceiling opening to a completely stowed accordion — rear window and all — perched over the trunk. The roof retracts with the touch of a button at speeds up to 60 mph, but unlike in most convertibles, it doesn’t take the side-pillar structure with it. That makes for more of a panoramic moonroof effect than a true droptop experience.
What’s Special
- 101-hp, 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine
- Five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
- Trunk compartment in place of hardtop’s hatchback cargo area
- High-performance Abarth version offered
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500e
The 500e is a battery-electric version of the 500 hardtop for sale in select states. The EPA gives the 500e an 87-mile estimated driving range.
Powering a 111-hp electric motor, the thermally managed lithium-ion battery pack can be recharged in less than four hours with a 240-volt Level 2 charging setup (sold separately). On a normal household power outlet, Fiat says it takes less than 24 hours to recharge the battery.
What’s Special
- Unique aerodynamic components
- Additional interior sound insulation
- Navigation system with electric-vehicle-specific features available
- Push-button transmission
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500 Abarth
Fiat’s performance-oriented Abarth model comes in 500 hatchback and 500c soft-top form, and it competes with sporty models like the Mini Cooper S. Its turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine makes 160 hp.
What’s Special
- Dual tailpipes
- Functional bumper inlets for engine’s two intercoolers
- Rear spoiler
- Performance suspension
- Bolstered sport seats
- Electronic stability system with partial-off mode
