Fiat 500 Convertible 1.4 16v Turbo T-Jet Abarth 2dr Review

For The beefy bodykit means the 500C Abarth looks great whether the roof is up or down, and the turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine gives strong performance.

Against The vague steering means the Abarth feels a bit unnerving when you’re pressing on. Fixed pillars mean it doesn’t feels like a proper drop-top, either.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

Of the various 'hot' versions of the 500C, this is the best one. Don't bother with the Competizione or Esseesse models.

What Car? readers say

4

Key facts

0–60mph: 7.9 secs
Top speed: 128 mph
Average mpg: 43.5
Tank range: 335 miles

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Features

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Size

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View the whole Fiat 500 Convertible range

The full Fiat 500 review

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Outright speed isn't everything
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Niftier than you'd think
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
Insulated from noise
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
Pricey, but excellent fuel economy
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Most parts are tried and tested
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Airbags all round
Behind The Wheel
3 out of 5 stars
Well laid-out
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Usable rear seats
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Comes with the essentials

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

With the Fiat 500C, there are four engines to choose from, but the 1.2 petrol is our pick. It’s lively enough, it's the cheapest to buy and it’s economical, too.

Lounge trim is a £1400 upgrade from entry-level Pop specification, and while the 15-inch alloys and chrome detailing look good, the Pop's arguably more in the spirit of the functional-but-fun original Nuova 500 – as well as being cheaper.

Discounts on the 500C are unlikely for a good while – it's a very desirable little car, with Fiat UK selling all it can import – but you could try for some free accessories. There's scope to extensively personalise the 500C, with three roof colours (black, red or ivory), eleven paint colours to choose from, and a series of sticker kits, decals and graphics. There are also often special editions to look out for - albeit at a price.