Fiat 500 (Tipo 312). 2007 to date (prod. 1,500,000 approx. to 2015). 3-door saloon, 2-door cabriolet. F/F, 875 cm³ (I2 OHC), 999 cm³ (I3 DOHC), 1242 cm³ (I4 OHC), 1248 cm³ diesel, 1368 cm³ petrol (I4 DOHC), 24 kWh electric. Modernized revival of nuova 500 design of 1957 but in a far bigger form. Average ride, but well designed with good handling, though not as sparkling as its Ford Ka Mk II platform twin. Initially built in Poland. Abarth model launched 2008 with 135 bhp. Cabrio 500C from 2009, with identical side appearance but roll-back canvas roof. Electric model, 500e, for US, with 2013 its first model year. Mexican production to 2019. Mild hybrid triple from 2020.

Manufacturing locations: Tychy, Poland; México

Marque: Fiat | Model: Fiat 500 | Predecessor: Fiat Seicento | Successor: Fiat 500 (2020–)

Off-site links

• Lucire: ‘Top model Jodie Kidd kicks off Fiat’s EcoDrive’
• Lucire: ‘British women vote Fiat 500 their sexiest car’
• Lucire: ‘Roaming Holiday’