Australian customers can expect the first of the new generation 500 convertible (the 500C) mid next year.
Some 53 years since the first open-top Fiat 500 appeared, Australian customers can expect the first of the new generation 500 convertible (the 500C) mid next year.
Just like the regular 500, the 500C will be powered by a choice of 1.2-litre or 1.4-litre petrol engines or a 1.3-litre turbo-diesel.
These all include the innovative, fuel-saving technology called ‘Start&Stop’. When stopped, if you select neutral and release the clutch, the engine automatically stops. To restart, you simply put the car back in gear.
The 500C is not just an open version of the regular 500. For example the windscreen is higher and larger – to accommodate the resized upper cross member required to provided boosted chassis strength. There is also extra chrome trim (a throwback to the original 1957 model) and the boot opens upwards (only when the roof is closed).
Fiat says the soft-top operation is totally electronic and there will be an optional wind-stop to position behind the front seats if one is concerned about a ruffled ‘do’ while driving.
In Italy, the 500C is sold with a choice of nine paint finishes, two equipment versions and three interior trims.
With more than 360,000 orders worldwide for the 500, it seems new car buyers - having already seen the MINI and Volkswagen New Beetle – are still keen on ‘retro’.
Fiat will announce details of the Australian models closer to launch.
