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What's New for 2013
Coming off of last year's introduction, the 2013 Fiat 500 gains a new Turbo model, an Abarth convertible and a few new audio options.
/Introduction
Not too long ago, the words "compact" and "economical" were equated with cheap and dull when it came to cars. Nowadays, it seems as if some small and affordable transports are not just agreeable and fun, but even desirable. Leading the charge is the 2013 Fiat 500, with its distinctly Italian take on the subcompact.
As one of the smallest cars on sale today, the Fiat 500 somehow manages to deliver heartily on a number of levels. From the outside, the charm of the original fiat Cinquecento (500) from decades past lives on in the styling of today's modern interpretation. Inside, front passengers are treated to a surprisingly spacious cabin that is adorned with plenty of contemporary niceties. Add to that a pleasantly lively driving experience and favorable fuel economy figures, and it's no wonder why the Fiat 500 is one of our top recommended coupes.
With a variety of trim levels and the availability of convertible models, there seems to be a Fiat 500 for a wide range of tastes and budgets. For 2013, a new 500 Turbo model bridges the gap between the standard engine and performance-focused Abarth, while the latter is now also available in a convertible version.
Still, there are a few drawbacks that shoppers should be aware of. Taller folks should steer clear of the optional sunroof that cuts into headroom. Obviously, headroom's not a concern with the convertible models, but their lack of rear visibility is. Drivers with a penchant for performance may also want to upgrade to the new Turbo model, as the base engine is on the weak side and the automatic transmission further reinforces this feeling.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2013 Fiat 500 is classified as a two-door subcompact and is available either as a hatchback or convertible. The hatchback is offered in five trim levels: Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth. The convertible 500C comes in Pop, Lounge and Abarth trims.
Standard features for the base Pop trim include 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, a trip computer, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration.
Stepping up to the Sport trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a few sporty exterior styling touches, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, front sport seats, a sport steering wheel and an upgraded Alpine audio system. The Turbo trim adds a more powerful engine, bigger brakes, a roof spoiler and a leather-wrapped shift knob but goes without the audio upgrade.
The range-topping Lounge trim foregoes the sporty upgrades in favor of more luxurious appointments like 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, premium cloth upholstery and satellite radio. The 500C convertible models gain a three-position power cloth top and rear parking sensors.
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