Distinguishing the 500C is its powered dual-layer cloth roof that features a glass rear window and a spoiler with built-in central brake light. Retractable to multiple positions, it can even be folded fully back while driving at speeds of up to 50 mph (80 km/h).
Fiat describes the interior of the 500C as ‘airy and roomy’, although that probably depends on how many people are sat inside at the time, and the size of those people. Claimed interior space is 76.2 cubic feet (2,157 litres), while the luggage compartment is 5.4 cubic feet (152 litres).
Perhaps to distract from the its petite size, Fiat is offering a myriad of colour permutations that allow 500C owners to create a potentially unique car. There are fourteen paint finishes, three roof colours, two interior colour themes and twelve seat colour and material combinations for them to choose from.
Like the hatchback, only one engine is available for the 500C: a 101 bhp (75 kW / 102 PS) 1.4 litre unit that produces 133 Nm (98 lb/ft) of torque.
Thanks to MultiAir valve gear technology, it allows the 500C to achieve reasonable EPA ratings of 30 mpg US (36.0 mpg UK / 7.8 l/100km) for City and 38 mpg US (45.6 mpg UK / 6.2 l/100km) for Highway when paired to the five-speed manual transmission. Alternatively, there’s a six-speed automatic for those not keen on changing gear themselves.
Fiat is offering two trim levels for its new convertible. The entry-level 500C Pop includes the five-speed manual gearbox, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, air conditioning, heated powered door mirrors, tyre pressure monitoring, seven air bags and a trip computer. But, rather meanly, it only gets 15” steel wheels.
The premium 500C Lounge comes with the six-speed automatic transmission plus Sirius Satellite Radio, automatic climate control, Bose audio system with six speakers, chrome door mirror caps, security alarm and 15” aluminium wheels.
Just because the 500C is small, it doesn’t mean it’s cheap. When sales start in late spring, the Pop will have an MSRP of $19,500 and the Lounge is going to cost $23,500.
To put those amounts into perspective, sister brand Chrysler sells the 200 Touring Convertible at an MSRP of $26,445. It may not be as chic as the Fiat, but it’s much larger, more practical and its EPA Highway fuel economy of 31 mpg US (37.2 mpg UK / 7.6 l/100km) isn’t too bad.
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