The 2012 Fiat 500 has reentered into the U.S. market after being absent for the past 27 years. The Fiat 500 is sportier than the Mini Cooper, yet a step above the Toyota Yaris. When compared to the Cooper, the Fiat 500 is four inches taller which will increase your visibility and interior legroom. This Italian vehicle offers a comfortable ride overall and starts out at a decent price when compared to its competitors.
Key Features
The Fiat 500 has front-wheel drive with a 1.4 liter four cylinder engine. It has 101 hp at 6,500 rpm while offering 98 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. It gets great fuel economy with the manual transmission getting 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The automatic transmission offers 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Standard features include Bluetooth, USB port, 15-inch covered steel wheels, and a six speaker audio system.
What We Like
The convenient convertible top is capable of operating at speeds up to 60 mph. Therefore, if you are going down the road and want to put the top down, it is completely safe to do so. A USB port is available for a memory stick which will hold details of your trip, which include carbon dioxide emissions. Put the memory stick into your computer and you will receive tips on how to improve your efficiency over the long term.
What Concerns Us
The style of the Fiat 500 take a little getting used to. If you do not like it, the Mazda2, Ford Fiesta, and Honda Fit may be better options which offer a little more car, power, and room for your money.
Available Models
The Fiat 500 has a turbocharged options with a 1.4 liter four cylinder engine offering 160 hp at 5,500 rpm. The fuel economy on this vehicle is 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Major Recalls
The Fiat 500 was recalled in 2011 due to some of the cars being assembled with contaminated brake fluid. This may cause a loss of braking ability which can result in a crash.
Common Issues
Common consumer complaints include the clock not keeping accurate time, key stuck in the ignition, phone system not working, odometer blinking, downshifting hard at slow speeds, pressure plate failure, not going into gear, electrical shortage, vehicle not starting, ball joint wear, bad pressure plate, and the engine stopping.
