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Power-Cloth Top

As a contemporary solution to the famous canvas roof on the original Cinquecento, the new 2012 Fiat 500c features a premium dual-layer power-operated cloth top that is designed to deliver all-season driving pleasure with the top up or down. Directly inspired from the historic Cinquecento, the Fiat 500c features a wide glass backlight to retain the same visibility as the hatchback, while its rounded corners are a direct inspiration from the historic model.

With just the push of a button, the Fiat 500c's power-operated cloth top retracts up to the rear spoiler during speeds up to 60 mph (a midway point can be chosen by pressing the button anytime between). Press the roof button again, and the roof will neatly fold all the way open and tuck neatly behind the rear head restraints (up to 50 mph).

Interior Design

Even with the top up, the interior of the new 2012 Fiat 500c is airy and roomy, and an environment designed to be comfortable and enjoyable for any destination.

The interior design theme of the new Fiat 500c is an artistic blend of clean lines and conveniently located features inspired by the historic model. Through the available leather-wrapped steering wheel, the cabrio's single concentric instrument cluster features the speedometer, tachometer and trip computer in a distinct and effective manner. Integrating the latest in portable vehicle navigation for improved route guidance, the instrument cluster features a central LCD monitor that shows pictograms from the TomTom navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication. These elements, together with a highly integrated center stack and a uniquely designed radio and climate control system, can be ordered in Ivory or Black for an extra level of personalization while also influencing the interior theme to be more sporty or vintage.

The instrument panel of the new Fiat 500c continues the perfect blend of modern simplicity with iconic Italian styling. The upper instrument panel is designed to convey a sense of refinement and elegance and features color-matched exterior accents for added detail. Frequently used vehicle buttons are highlighted with chromed circular rings and are centrally located on the exterior-matched instrument panel trim for a premium appearance. The lower instrument panel and center console highlight the new cabrio's space utilization with large- and small-sized storage spaces to keep mobile devices at a convenient reach.

A new passenger glove box stores valuable items, while concealing the BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication system's USB port for instant integration of mobile devices including an iPod. For an integrated look, the new automatic- or manual-transmission shifter and bezel are ergonomically located into the lower instrument panel and feature a mechanically styled shift knob accented in black or leather depending on the model.

The new Fiat 500c's interior features highly detailed driver and passenger seats available in 12 color and material combinations for maximum personality with an added touch of personalization. Inspired by the historic Cinquecento of the 1960s, the new seats offer the same unique split-color effect: monotone fabric at the bottom and the upper seatback, while the head restraint is matched to the Ivory or Black interior environment. On the Fiat 500c Lounge model, uniquely designed cloth seats provide an upscale look and feel, while premium leather seats are available in traditional Nero (black), a Marrone (brown) hide or ultra-sporty Rosso (red) and deliver a sophisticated look.

Continuing the clean interior design theme, the door panels of the new Fiat 500c feature a contrast between the upper trim upholstered to match the seats, while the surrounding area elegantly incorporates large map pockets and a specially designed space- and weight-saving BOSE Energy Efficient Series premium audio system. Paying homage to the past, the chromed "hook" door-handle shape recalls one of the most remembered features on the original model while integrating modern-day power door locks.

1.4-Liter Engine

Adapted for U.S. customers, the new 2012 Fiat 500c features an all-new 1.4-liter 16-valve engine with state-of-the-art MultiAir fuel-saving and emissions-reducing technology - the quietest powertrain versus its competitors. Invented and patented by Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT), MultiAir provides world-class levels of power, best-in-class 30 mpg city (manual transmission) fuel efficiency, quality and refinement.

Delivering spirited driving and well-suited for the Fiat 500c's lightweight design and city-friendly size, the efficient and responsive 1.4-liter MultiAir in-line four-cylinder engine provides 101 horsepower (75 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 98 lb-ft (133 Nm) of torque at 4,000 rpm. When paired with the five-speed manual transmission, the Fiat 500 delivers up to 38 highway mpg.

Helping to achieve 10 percent greater fuel efficiency and power while decreasing CO2 emissions up to 10 percent compared to engines without the system, the new Fiat 500c features the world's first Fully Variable Valve Actuation (FVVA) system on a production engine. Also known as MultiAir, this innovative intake-valve system replaces a traditional overhead cam with hydraulic actuation controlled by four, fast-responding, electronic solenoids - delivering instantaneous air-fuel adjustment at any time in the engine cycle for maximum efficiency and power.

The new 2012 Fiat 500c offers two reliable, robust and sophisticated transmissions uniquely designed for improved efficiency and driving fun.

An all-new six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes provides the new Fiat 500c with smooth shifting and excellent fuel economy. For more engaging driving, the driver can select the "Sport" mode.

Should the driver select 'Sport' mode on the instrument panel, the all-new six-speed automatic transmission provides greater driving enjoyment. Through advanced powertrain management, 'Sport' mode enables quicker gear changes, a unique throttle map for improved engine responsiveness and allows each gear to be held for longer periods near the redline.

An upgraded five-speed manual transmission features new gear ratios for the U.S. market, allowing the new Fiat 500c to deliver improved fuel efficiency and quicker off-the-line acceleration. For improved durability and pedal feel, a new self-adjusting hydraulic-clutch system is standard on the manual-transmission-equipped Fiat 500c.

Two New Fiat 500c Models

The new 2012 Fiat 500c offers two exciting models infused with style, technology and convenience features to make life under the open sky more personalized and fun.

Fiat 500c Pop
Designed for the individual who wants Italian style, efficiency and personalization options, the new 2012 Fiat 500c Pop model includes a premium dual-layer power-cloth top, manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels with chrome-accented wheel covers and all-season tires, seven standard air bags, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input, chromed exhaust tip, power windows, power door locks, power heated mirrors, speed control, BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology with USB port, eco:Drive Application and iPod control capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, reconfigurable Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and tire-pressure monitoring display (TPM).

The Fiat 500c Pop model is the only four-seat cabrio in the market priced below $20,000. The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the 2012 Fiat 500c Pop is $19,500 and arrives at FIAT Studios in late-Spring.

Fiat 500c Lounge
Tailored for the individual who wants their cabrio to reflect their fashion-oriented lifestyle, the new 2012 Fiat 500c Lounge model features premium amenities (in addition to the Fiat 500c Pop features) including the all-new six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes, front- and rear-fascia chromed accents, chromed mirror caps, fog lamps, 15-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires, premium cloth seats, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, automatic climate control, and BOSE Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer and security alarm.

The MSRP of the 2012 Fiat 500c Lounge is $23,500 and arrives at FIAT Studios in late-Spring.

Fiat 500 Cabrio: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications