For Lounge specification adds chrome trim, foglights, parking sensors, stability control and 15-inch alloys. The 100bhp 1.4 adds a bit more pace, too.
Against It's expensive, the diesel's a better car to drive, and this model will be the dearest to run with its high emissions and higher tax bandings.
If a low purchase price isn't too much of a concern, pay a bit extra for the range-topping 1.3 Lounge diesel, which is a better performer and much cheaper to run.
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.
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