Fiat 500 review

If it’s retro charm you’re after, there aren’t many new cars on sale that come close to the uber-chic, heritage-inspired image offered by the Fiat 500.

With looks harking back to the 1957 classic of the same name, this 21st-century reimagining of the 500 can still turn heads more than a decade after its release, and it remains one of the best-selling city cars. But does it still deserve its continuing success?

Over the years, Fiat has made (very) minor tweaks to its exterior styling and the interior, but more significant improvements to the engines and infotainment system. However, the competition in this value car class has grown exponentially over the years since this 500 went on sale. Many rivals have undergone significant overhauls, while Fiat’s city car has just had a little nip here and a tuck there.

So has it been left behind in the process? How does it stack up today against rivals like the Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto and Volkswagen Up?

In this review, we're focusing on the regular Fiat 500 hatchback. However, there's also a convertible Fiat 500C and a feisty hot hatch named Abarth 595. Or, if you like the looks but need something altogether more family-friendly, Fiat offers the Fiat 500X and Fiat 500L – although both are much larger and, name aside, share little with car you're looking at here.

Already decided the Fiat 500 is the car for you? Don't let your heart completely rule your head and just run straight down to your local Fiat dealer – our New Car Buying pages will give you big savings without any awkward haggling.