By Bruce Caldwell
The highly anticipated 2012 Fiat 500 was worth the wait, especially
if you like your fun in a very compact package. Like the much pricier
Mini Cooper, the Fiat 500 evokes styling cues of its progenitors
(’50s/’60s Fiat 500/600 series) and wraps them around a thoroughly
modern technology package. Quality and substance are a million miles
away from the flimsy Fiats of old.
Walkaround: Fiat designers nailed the mix of old and
new styling elements. Our Sport model had just enough performance cues
to offset the high cuteness factor. The new Abarth model should enhance
both image and actual performance.
Interior: The handsome interior is very
contemporary, with excellent use of colors and textures. Front legroom
is as outstanding as the rear legroom is not. Front headroom is great.
Our Fiat 500 had the power retractable cloth sunroof — a high quality
unit that can be opened and closed while driving. Wind noise and
buffeting are minimal. Split rear seats fold, but not very flat. Cargo
space is limited.
Under The Hood: It’s a small car with an engine to
match. A 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder produces a modest 101 horsepower
at a buzzy 6500-rpm. Torque is 98 lb-ft at 4000-rpm, but the smooth
5-speed manual transmission (and excellent clutch) make the most of
available power. Actual performance surpasses what the numbers suggest.
EPA rates the Fiat 500 at 30/38 mpg; our results were at the low end of
the estimates.
Behind The Wheel: Fun driving is a key Fiat 500
feature. The nimbleness of our Sport model encouraged a spritely driving
style. U-turns and parking were a snap.
Whines: A sixth gear would be nice for highway cruising. Rear seating is extremely tight for full size adults.
Bottom Line: The 2012 Fiat 500 Sport was a blast to
drive in crowded urban settings and even more enjoyable on twisting back
roads when the sun was out and we could open the roof. The 2012 Fiat
500 is an excellent value with an abundance of fun.
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