New for 2016

For 2016, the Fiat 500 gains a standard 5-inch touchscreen with optional navigation that replaces previous model’s dash-mounted TomTom system. Fiat has also added a new “Easy” trim level, while the limited-production 1957 model returns.

Mambo Italiano

Practicality and affordability are old friends, and they often walk hand-in-hand. Unfortunately, these two attributes often come at the expense of fun. But that's not the case when it comes to the 2016 Fiat 500. The 500 is affordable – with a starting MSRP of $16,995* – practical, and remarkably efficient. What’s more, it’s all of those things while mixing in Fiat’s undeniable Italian charm.

Performance

Three engines selections are on offer for the 2016 Fiat 500, all of which send power to the front wheels via a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.

The Pop, Easy, Sport, and Lounge models are all powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. It’s important to remember that while the 500’s engine output appears low, the vehicle itself doesn’t weight much. That reduced weight means the engine doesn’t have to work as hard as a heavier car.

While top speed and rapid acceleration are not the 500’s strong suit, rest assured that Fiat’s charming subcompact can zip and scoot about with go-kart like handling. Indeed, the 2016 Fiat 500 has the rare ability of turning even the most mundane commutes into something special.

What the standard 1.4-liter may lack in speed it more than makes up for with efficiency. EPA-estimated fuel economy rests at remarkable 34 mpg combined (31 city/40 highway) with the manual,** while the automatic returns 30 mpg combined (27 city/34 highway).**

Of course, if you’re in need of more power and performance you’d do well to take a look at the 500 Turbo. As its name suggest, the 500 Turbo steps up to a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that serves up 135 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. And despite its upturn in power, the 500 Turbo also returns impressive fuel economy, with manual models earning 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway),** and automatic-equipped models earning 27 mpg combined (24 city/32 highway).**

Finally, drivers that truly want to stand out should consider the Abarth. It features an upgraded 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that's turnd to spit out 160 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the manual transmission. With the six-speed automatic, those figures changes slightly to 157 hp and 183 lb-ft of torque. Once again, Fiat smartly manages power and efficiency, with Abarth models sporting identical fuel economy figures to those of the 500 Turbo. What’s the Italian word for impressive again?

Features

For a subcompact car, the Fiat 500 is incredibly versatile and designed to fit a wide range of driving needs. It's available in hatchback or convertible form, with the hatchback offered in six trim levels: Pop, Easy, Sport, Turbo, Lounge, and Abarth. The convertible version, the 500C, comes in Pop, Easy, Lounge, and Abarth trims. As a convertible, it comes with a three-position power cloth top.

Getting the most bang for your buck is important, especially when purchasing a new car, which is why the 2016 Fiat 500 provides a robust list of standard features. Base Pop models come with 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, air-conditioning, full power accessories, and cruise control. The Pop also includes cloth upholstery, 50/50 split-folding rear seatbacks, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for that extra luxurious feel.

In addition to all the features listed above, the 2016 Fiat 500 packs an impressive array of standard technology designed to help keep you connected and your drives more enjoyable, including Fiat/Chrysler’s Uconnect® infotainment system (complete with 5-inch touchscreen), Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity, voice controls, and a six-speaker sound system with CD player. There are also two conveniently placed USB ports.

Step up to the Easy trim level to get all the Pop’s equipment (where applicable) as well as 15-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, premium cloth upholstery, a 7-inch color driver information display, and an upgraded six-speaker Alpine audio system.

Sport models live up to their name thanks to a number of sporty exterior styling touches, red-painted brake calipers, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Sport models also incorporate a sport-tuned suspension for tighter handling as well as a sport exhaust system, front sport seats, and a sport steering wheel.

As mentioned in the Powertrains section, Turbo models feature a more powerful engine, while incorporating bigger brakes, gloss black exterior lighting trim, upgraded cloth upholstery, and a leather-wrapped shit knob.

While the Sport and Turbo models prioritize sportiness and performance, Lounge models focus on refinement and luxury. Lounge models feature chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, and other amenities such as an upgrade Alpine sound system, satellite radio, and a navigation system.

Sitting at the top of the Fiat 500 model list is the performance-driven Abarth. In addition to its sport engine, the Abarth distinguishes itself with unique 16-inch wheels, sportier suspension tuning, as well as distinctive exterior and interior styling tweaks. Meanwhile, the Abarth convertible benefits from standard rear parking sensors and an optional windscreen that fits behind the rear seats.

The Fiat 500 line can be further customized with a number of different options that Fiat brands as “Collections,” and include a number of individual items like a sunroof, heated seats, leather upholstery, and a six-speaker Beats Audio sound system.

Design

The 2016 500 is a modern interpretation of Fiat’s 1957 classic. While it’s larger than the original, it measures a full seven inches shorter than the MINI Cooper. From its welcoming front “eye” headlights to its charismatic front fascia, the Fiat 500 always looks like it’s in a good mood and will surely put you in one the moment you get behind the wheel.

Inside, the 2016 Fiat 500 is a lot roomier than you might expect. The interior style is quirky and fun—complete with round vents and a flat dash that give it a nice retro feel. The bright dial displays with large fonts are an especially pleasing touch, while the center console sports easily accessible cupholders and an easily accessed USB port.

Given the Fiat’s welcoming price point, you’d be forgiven for thinking material quality would suffer. We’re happy to report that that isn’t the case, with build quality and materials in the Fiat 500 exceptionally high.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Fiat 500 does reasonably well for a car its size. The hatchback provides 9.5 cubic feet of luggage space with the seats up. Drop the seatbacks and the cargo room swells to an impressive 30.2 cubic feet.

Safety

Despite its fun-loving nature, the 2016 Fiat 500 provides a stellar standard of safety. Standard safety features include stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, hill start assist, a driver knee airbag, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active front head restraints.

Verdict

Despite its diminutive stature, the 2016 Fiat 500 can’t help but leave a big impression. It’s small, affordable, and incredibly fun to drive. Did we mention that it’s fuel efficient? Couple all of that with a unique design and Italian flair to spare and it could very well provide you with the most fun you’ve had driving in a long, long time.

Words don’t do the 2016 Fiat 500 justice, so be sure to contact or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 for a test drive.

*MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification.

**Estimate MPG. Actual mileage will vary.

Image Credit: FIAT