Fiat 500 review

If it’s retro charm you’re after, the chic Fiat 500 is one of your cheapest options. Its timeless looks, inspired by the 1957 classic of the same name, are arguably the biggest reason to buy one, but slow depreciation is another, more level-headed, rationale.

If you’re not too taken by the 500’s styling there are bigger, more reliable and better-driving alternatives available at this price – including the VW Up and Hyundai i10.

Read on over the next few pages to see if the 500 can capture any of the charm of the original on the road, and to see how it compares with those rivals. We'll pick our favourite engine and our best trim.