Styling
The 500 has been developed from the widely applauded Trepiuno first previewed at the 2004 Geneva show. Highlights of the new 500 exterior, from the front include the trademark "whisker and logo" badging derived from the first 500, the 1936 Topolino (little mouse). The distinctive combination of circular headlights and the short bonnet.
At the sides there are bold wheel lips, large aerodynamic wing mirrors and a tapering roof line, all of which give a clean look. At the back, there are neat rear lights and a large chromed tailgate handle - both modern interpretations of the original. So does this modern version of a design classic work? Yes, the 500 is a mix of the best retro flavours with modern design.
What's under the bonnet
The engine range is pretty much unchanged from sister car, the Panda. Petrol units start with the 69bhp 1.2 to the sportier 100bhp 1.4 litre 16-valve. Diesel fans have the option of the 75bhp 1.3 Multijet turbo diesel. Greenest 500 options are the 1.2 petrol and the 1.3 diesel. They boast average CO2 figures under 120g/km, and with the proposed changes to the Congestion Charge, these models will be exempt.
On the inside...
Inside, the 500 is more spacious than the compact dimensions would suggest. There's a quality feel to the trim, and although parts of the console are borrowed from the Panda, there's a bespoke look and feel to the 500's interior: Pop, Sport and Lounge trims will be available. Surprise and delight features include the clever driver's instrument cluster that houses both the rev counter and speedometer in one easy to read dial. The colour-coded dash trim with the bespoke chrome-trimmed switches and the chunky three-spoke steering wheel.
We tried Sport and Lounge models at the launch, and in our view, the Lounge, with its interior trim detail for the switchgear and steering wheel is best. It's just a shame that for every bit of classy, soft-touch plastic trim there's a harder, cheaper-looking finish that's less impressive. So it's not quite a match for the BMW MINI in terms of fit and finish. But, the 500 is much cheaper. The driving position is comfortable with supportive seats, but taller drivers will find their left knee brushing the centre console. There's enough room for two in the back and a boot, spacious enough to hold a couple soft bags or a week's worth of shopping.
On the road
So what's it like to drive then? We got to drive all three engines available for the UK market. The 1.2-litre petrol unit is spirited enough, but lacks the character of the larger 1.4-litre. The 1.4-litre 16-valve is the sportiest choice available until the promised Abarth version arrives in autumn this year. It's at its happiest being revved although refinement is not its strong point, but it features the sweetest six-speed manual box. The 1.3-litre diesel earned my respect for its motorway cruising ability, even though it's refined, the typical diesel clatter makes itself known in the cabin and the handling feels a touch nose heavy with the weightier diesel lump.
If you don't buy the new 500 for its looks, you should for its ride and handling. Even the 1.2 proved an engaging companion on the test route. It isn't quite as sharp as the Panda, the extra weight blunts the responses and the power steering seems to have a weird, rubbery self-centring action. The 500 is a great drive and the 4,500 UK buyers will not be disappointed when they get their cars over the coming months. We look forward to the the Abarth version. The new 500 range will go on sale on January 21 with prices starting from £7,900 for the 1.2-litre three-door Pop models.
Tiscali verdict: Fabulous design, good to drive and it's well-built 8/10.
Fancy a closer look? Check out our New Fiat 500 gallery
