Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Fiat 500 GQ Edition is not all that it appears to be]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/the-fiat-500-gq-edition-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/the-fiat-500-gq-edition-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/the-fiat-500-gq-edition-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With Fiat's business model effectively previewed by rival Mini's moves toward success throughout the years, it's certainly no surprise to see the Italianate 500 start to cough up some limited edition models. The 500C has already, and famously teamed with Gucci (via a small J.Lo kerfuffle) and now Fiat has brought a 500 GQ Edition to Geneva, presumably for gentlemen drivers with style.

The co-branding with Gentleman's Quarterly includes orange GQ badges that match 500 logos of the same color. The show car seen here is presented in a matte grey and carbon black paint scheme that will not be offered for the public when the car goes on sale in Europe (500 Bait and Switch Edition is more like it). Instead, European customers will get a two-tone metallic grey/black 500S, with chromed mirror caps, unique 16-inch wheels, orange brake calipers. Inside we're told the car will offer unique leather seats and a leather-covered gear knob.

See the show car in our gallery above, and scroll down below for the press release.

Continue reading The Fiat 500 GQ Edition is not all that it appears to be

The Fiat 500 GQ Edition is not all that it appears to be originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 fiat 500 gq edition500fiatgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showgentlemans quarterlygqWed, 06 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/the-fiat-500-gq-edition-geneva-2013/20490550/article-detail.xml 20490550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fiat500gq_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fiat500gq.jpg <![CDATA[All Fiat 500 production moving to Poland by 2015?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/all-fiat-500-production-moving-to-poland-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/all-fiat-500-production-moving-to-poland-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/all-fiat-500-production-moving-to-poland-by-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With the next-generation Fiat 500 expected to debut in 2015 with more of a global presence, there is a growing possibility that production of the cute little hatchback will be consolidated to a single plant in Poland. According to Automotive News Europe, Fiat plans to end production of the 500 in Toluca, Mexico, which is expected to better fill Fiat's European production capacity, free up more North American capacity and create a single Fiat 500 design for all markets.

Currently, Fiat builds two similar but structurally different 500 models for Europe and North America, and assembling just one version at the Tychy, Poland would allow it to cut costs for development of the new car. This would also help fill some of the capacity void that Tychy has suffered in recent years, building just 300,000 units last year compared to more than double that in 2009. The report says that while Chrysler's North American production capacity is near its limit, Fiat's European plants will be used to meet increased demand before a new plant is built in North America. As for Toluca, there is no indication as to what vehicle Chrysler would replace the 500 with at this facility, which also builds the Dodge Journey.

All Fiat 500 production moving to Poland by 2015? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500500chrysler tolucacinquecentofiatfiat 500 productionfiat productiontolucatychyMon, 11 Feb 2013 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20456427/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/all-fiat-500-production-moving-to-poland-by-2015/20456427/article-detail.xml 20456427 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 Fiore Rosa is Italian-Japanese cute-overload fusion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/fiat-500-fiore-rosa-is-italian-japanese-cute-overload-fusion/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/fiat-500-fiore-rosa-is-italian-japanese-cute-overload-fusion/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/fiat-500-fiore-rosa-is-italian-japanese-cute-overload-fusion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fiat 500 Fiore Rosa - Japanese special edition model in pink - front three-quarter view

If you live in Japan and you want to get something for your special someone for Valentine's Day, then slow dance down to your Fiat dealer and check out the Fiat 500 Fiore Rosa. A holiday special, the pale metallic pink Cinquecento is limited to 150 examples and only on sale from February 14-17. But beware the connotations, because as far as we can glean from Google Translate, the 500 Fiore Rosa is a bargain model, getting halogen lights instead of bi-xenons, manual air-con instead of climate control, 14-inch steel wheels instead of 15-inch alloys, and going without chrome trim, glass roof, parking sensors and alarm.

It's fitted with the TwinAir engine and gets the same price as the regular 500 TwinAir, however - 2,200,000 yen ($23,559 US). Other than the special name, we can't figure out where the 500 Fiore Rosa is hiding its treats, especially because it gets the el-cheapo wheel covers of the 500 Pop fitted with the 1.2-liter engine instead of the 500 TwinAir wheels. But if you want to make a statement, it's there. And we're talking to the women of Japan, because apparently they're the ones who buy the gifts on Valentine's day in Nippon.

Fiat 500 Fiore Rosa is Italian-Japanese cute-overload fusion originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500500500 fiore rosacinquecentofiatfiat 500 fiore rosafiat japanfiore rosaspecial editionvalentinevalentines dayWed, 06 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448847/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/06/fiat-500-fiore-rosa-is-italian-japanese-cute-overload-fusion/20448847/article-detail.xml 20448847 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/fiat500rosa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/fiat500rosa.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500 Cattiva and Abarth Tenebra concepts showcase design to enhance personality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/fiat-500-cattiva-and-abarth-tenebra-concepts-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/fiat-500-cattiva-and-abarth-tenebra-concepts-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/fiat-500-cattiva-and-abarth-tenebra-concepts-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fiat 500 Cattiva Concept

Fiat brought out two new design concepts at the Detroit Auto Show, both intended to expand the appeal of its 500 Turbo and 500 Abarth models with upgraded and unique appointments inside and out.

First up is the Fiat 500 "Cattiva," based on the 500 Turbo, painted with a vibrant Rame (Copper) exterior with contrasting Nero (Black) accents. The turbocharged 500 features gloss Nero headlamp buckets, parking lamp bezels, tail lamps and a roof-mounted spoiler. Special 16-inch alloys, painted satin dark gray, hint at the sport-tuned suspension inside each fender. The appointments are continued inside its cabin with leather sport seating, Matte Nero instrument panel and other trim upgrades. Lastly, the sound package is the segment-exclusive Beats Audio system.

The Fiat 500 "Tenebra," based on the 500 Abarth, is painted in Matte Grigio (Gray) with Nero accents, just like its sibling. In addition to gloss Nero headlamp buckets, parking and tail lamps, it is fitted with 16-inch alloys with a Nero chrome finish. Setting itself apart, the signature Abarth bodyside stripes (and mirror cap) are Grigio in color and there is a large Abarth "Scorpion" logo on the roof. Inside the cabin, the Tenebra features performance seats with leather upholstery, a flat-bottom steering wheel and other cosmetic upgrades. Like the Cattiva, the Beats Audio system is standard.

Check out live galleries of both the Cattiva and Tenebra models, and then read the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading Fiat 500 Cattiva and Abarth Tenebra concepts showcase design to enhance personality

Fiat 500 Cattiva and Abarth Tenebra concepts showcase design to enhance personality originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show500500 abarthcattivadetroitdetroit 2013fiatfiat 500fiat abarthtenebraTue, 15 Jan 2013 17:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20429686/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/fiat-500-cattiva-and-abarth-tenebra-concepts-detroit-2013/20429686/article-detail.xml 20429686 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/fiat-500-cattiva-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/fiat-500-cattiva-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/is-the-fiat-500l-the-new-smaller-swagger-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/is-the-fiat-500l-the-new-smaller-swagger-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/is-the-fiat-500l-the-new-smaller-swagger-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Blonde mom rapper with Fiat 500L

Toyota tried to make family hauler commercials cool with its "Swagger Wagon" spot for the Sienna minivan back in 2010, but now Fiat looks to have created the unrated version of Toyota's idea with a web ad for its new Fiat 500L called "The Motherhood." Trying to cater to the 500L's target demographic, no punches are pulled as this blonde British mom attempts to describe all the joys of family raising.

We're not going to spoil anything for you here, but if you're hoping for useful information about the larger 500L, then this commercial isn't for you. If you're looking for an entertaining way to kill a few minutes, then check the (now viral) video out by scrolling below. With more double entendres than you'll know what do with, though, we have to warn you that this video's language might be a little unsafe for conservative workplaces.

Continue reading Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon?

Is the Fiat 500L the new, smaller swagger wagon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 fiat 500l500500ladvertisingcar commercialfiatfunny videonsfwswagger wagonviral videoWed, 19 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20407297/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/is-the-fiat-500l-the-new-smaller-swagger-wagon/20407297/article-detail.xml 20407297 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/fiat-500l-commercial_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/fiat-500l-commercial.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500e looks loud, runs quietly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-la-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Fiat 500e

Somebody wanted it, so we all got it - the Fiat 500e, the electric city car packed with enough Earth-saving tech that CEO Sergio Marchionne quipped (admittedly, early last year) that each one built will cost Fiat $10,000. The good news is that it not only comes with tons of EV-only gadgets and features, it does a good job, to our eye, of flaunting its electric looks and it offers the kinds of personalization one would expect of a hatch in the 500 family.

The multi-contrast exterior is grouped into three color packages, including an e-Sport Package that pairs mean with green. The Interior can be had in either Nero or Steam, both coming with Electric Orange accents, and a seven-inch TFT screen with all kinds of electric-car-status details.

Juice comes courtesy of a 111-horsepower electric-drive motor with 147 pound-feet of torque, using a battery rated at 24 kWh. Range is estimated at "more than 80 miles" on the 15-inch Firehawk GT low-rolling resistance tires, but Fiat says stories of "greater than 100 miles" aren't uncommon. With our high-res gallery above, you don't have to go that far to check it out from every angle.

2013 Fiat 500e looks loud, runs quietly originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show500500efiatlala auto showWed, 28 Nov 2012 20:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390218/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-la-2012/20390218/article-detail.xml 20390218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-fiat-500e-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-fiat-500e-la.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500C Abarth rocks you like a hurricane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500c-abarth-rocks-you-like-a-hurricane/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500c-abarth-rocks-you-like-a-hurricane/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500c-abarth-rocks-you-like-a-hurricane/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth is debuting in the City of Angels. It's the super-tuned version of the 500C combining all the best of fresh-air motoring and heightened performance from the scorpion-badged marque. As with the vanilla 500C, the Abarth's folding canvas roof opens all the way at up to 50 miles per hour, and will slide back to the rear spoiler at up to 60 mph.

Sweetening is found everywhere else, with Fiat's 1.4-liter MultiAir good for 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque in Sport mode (155 lb-ft standard), which takes the baby hatch from standstill to 60 miles per hour in just over seven seconds. Shifting is via a five-speed manual, but the sound of that engine running straight from the dual exhaust pipes to your ears with no roof to intervene should help you forget about the anachronistic transmission.

Underneath its skimpy bits of metal, the Abarth gets tons of tweaks compared to the 500C to support its sporting nature. Things like a reworked suspension with stiffer springs, larger half shafts and CV joints, quicker steering and larger brake rotors, a three-setting ESC and optional 17-inch alloys all add to the fun. The cabin throws plenty of black leather around, along with one-piece seats that get racing harness pass-throughs.

If the engine note isn't enough to satisfy your aural requests, the 500C Abarth is the first convertible in the world to get a Beats by Dr. Dre audio system, boasting six speakers and a subwoofer. Buyers can also take advantage of the Abarth Driving Experience free of charge, taught by instructors at - of all things - the Richard Petty Driving Experience.

Sit tight, we'll have live pictures of the new performance ragtop live from the 2012 LA Motor Show for you shortly.

Continue reading 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth rocks you like a hurricane

2013 Fiat 500C Abarth rocks you like a hurricane originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 fiat 500c abarth500500c500c abarthabarthcinquecentofiatlala auto showWed, 28 Nov 2012 00:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20385425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500c-abarth-rocks-you-like-a-hurricane/20385425/article-detail.xml 20385425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/242013fiat500cabarth-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/242013fiat500cabarth-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500e finally ready to rock down to Electric Orange Avenue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-finally-ready-to-rock-down-to-electric-orange-ave/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-finally-ready-to-rock-down-to-electric-orange-ave/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-finally-ready-to-rock-down-to-electric-orange-ave/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For a car that Fiat didn't want to build, the company sure has a lot to say about it. The damn near mythical Fiat 500e is finally here, and a trip utilizing its 100-mile range would probably give you just enough time to finish reading the press releases that came with it.

Among the highlights are the color, Electrico Arancione - Electric Orange to the Anglophones among you - with contrasting white lower fascia, available only with the Bianca Perla (white) interior treatment. There are three exterior treatments, Nero (black), Bianca Perla and the eSport Package, that decide the color of the exterior accents (like the front fascia and mirrors) on the car's five available hues of Argento (silver), Grigio (gray), Bianca Perla and Nero, and that aforementioned Electric Orange that can only be had with Bianca Perla. The e-Sport Package gets the Nero interior and blacks-out the hatch in Nero trim work, black wheels and a "gradient-style" graphic along the door for "a high-voltage look."

The leatherette interior comes in two colors, either Nero or Steam, and gets Electric Orange accents. Electric-car touches include the seven-inch TFT screen in the dash that provides basic driving information as well as the status of the battery, range and general vehicle info.

The bodywork has been resculpted for less drag, the result being a 13-percent improvement in aerodynamics and a decrease in coefficient of drag from .36 to .31. It's been done through tweaks like the perforated (Fiat calls it "dot matrix") front fascia and side sills, resculpted mirror caps and rear spoiler, bellypans under the car and 15-inch wheels with flush faces.

That's to make easier work for the 111-horsepower electric-drive motor with 147 pound-feet of torque and its 24 kWh, all so that it can provide the estimated range of "more than 80 miles" on the 15-inch Firehawk GT low-rolling resistance tires. Fiat says that city driving "typically" yields "greater than 100 miles." The rating is an "estimated 116 miles per gallon" and charging time on a 240-volt outlet is less than four hours. An iPhone and Android smartphone app keeps owners remotely notified of electric-car tidbits, and the TomTom navigation system can provide EV-friendly routes.

Settle in and check out absolutely all the details in the encyclopedic press release below, take a gander at it in the high-res gallery above, and stay tuned for our impression from the LA Auto Show floor.

Continue reading 2013 Fiat 500e finally ready to rock down to Electric Orange Avenue

2013 Fiat 500e finally ready to rock down to Electric Orange Avenue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 fiat 500e500500efiatlala auto showWed, 28 Nov 2012 00:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20385459/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/2013-fiat-500e-finally-ready-to-rock-down-to-electric-orange-ave/20385459/article-detail.xml 20385459 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/162013fiat500e-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/162013fiat500e-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat builds one-millionth 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fiat 500

Fiat has constructed 1 million new 500 models. The company says that the milestone model rolled off the line at the manufacturer's Fiat Auto Poland facility. The one millionth 500 is a Lounge model with optional three-layer Bianco Perla exterior paint.

While the quirky little European runabout touched down on US shores for the 2011 model year, the hatchback has been on sale in the EU since 2007. In fact, Fiat sells the compact in more than 100 countries. While the North American model features a few aesthetic differences, including a revised front fascia, the car retains much of its European flair.

North American buyers have responded by dragging home a full 70,000 units since the model debut on our side of the globe. Each of those vehicles were manufactured at the Fiat plant in Toluca, Mexico. You can check out the brief press release below for more information on the Fiat 500 and the company's production achievement.

Continue reading Fiat builds one-millionth 500

Fiat builds one-millionth 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500500fiatfiat 500one millionth fiat 500Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20384446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/21/fiat-builds-one-millionth-500/20384446/article-detail.xml 20384446 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fiat-500-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fiat-500-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat confirms 500 Abarth Cabrio for LA with F1-inspired video]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-cabrio-for-la-with-f1-inspired-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-cabrio-for-la-with-f1-inspired-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-cabrio-for-la-with-f1-inspired-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth Convertible video screen capture

In addition to the electric 500e, Fiat will be debuting a new 500 Abarth Cabrio under the lights of the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month. And to get everyone excited about the scorpion-stung droptop, Fiat has launched this promo video showing the cars zipping around a track at the hands of Ferrari Formula One drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa.

Fiat confirmed the car's LA debut in its one-sentence description of the video on the company's YouTube channel.

The Scuderia Ferrari drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa tested the Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio in Austin, Texas, in anticipation of its North American debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

There's a lot to love about the 500 Abarth - we've enjoyed it on several occasions - and we can only assume that this new Cabrio model won't disappoint. And how could it? After all, one of our favorite parts about the Abarth experience is the utterly amazing sound that shoots out of the tailpipes, and that aural pleasure will only be enhanced with the roof flipped back.

Scroll down to see the short video for yourself, and stay tuned for the full details as part of the LA Auto Show festivities.

Continue reading Fiat confirms 500 Abarth Cabrio for LA with F1-inspired video

Fiat confirms 500 Abarth Cabrio for LA with F1-inspired video originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 fiat 500c abarth500500 abarth500 abarth convertible500c abarthfelipe massafernando alonsofiatformula onelala auto showvideoFri, 16 Nov 2012 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20382070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/16/fiat-confirms-500-abarth-cabrio-for-la-with-f1-inspired-video/20382070/article-detail.xml 20382070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/abarthvideo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/abarthvideo.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat releases first 500e images ahead of LA spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-releases-first-500e-images-ahead-of-la-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-releases-first-500e-images-ahead-of-la-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fiat-releases-first-500e-images-ahead-of-la-spotlight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Fiat 500e - front three-quarter view

Fiat won't officially pull the wraps off of its all-electric 500e until the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month, but we now have a pair of official images that show the little orange shocker both inside and out.

All of the details surrounding the new 500e are still under embargo until the debut, and as of this writing, Chrysler will only confirm that the car will go on sale in California sometime in 2013. The automaker will also show the car this weekend at the American Music Awards on the "green carpet" this Sunday, November 18.

Fiat 500e interiorFrom what we can see in these photos, the 500e doesn't look vastly different from other Fiat 500 models, save the redesigned lower front fascia (in contrasting white), lower side sills, aero underbody lip, and more wind-friendly wheels presumably wrapped in low rolling-resistance tires. Inside, the Fiat's cabin has been done up in a similar white-and-orange motif. Other changes to the interior include a redesigned gauge cluster and the addition of push-buttons where the normal gear shifter would be.

There has been a lot of buzz surrounding the 500e leading up to its launch, including reports stating that Chrysler is only making the car to appease the folks of California and that the company will lose something in the area of $10,000 on each EV it builds. We'll see how the little electron-eater fares when it launches next year.

Until then, sight tight - we'll have the full skinny on the 500e in the coming weeks. For now, scroll down to read Chrysler's very brief statement.

Continue reading Fiat releases first 500e images ahead of LA spotlight

Fiat releases first 500e images ahead of LA spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 fiat 500e500500ecinquecentofiatlala auto showFri, 16 Nov 2012 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20380975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/16/fiat-releases-first-500e-images-ahead-of-la-spotlight/20380975/article-detail.xml 20380975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/001-2013-fiat-500e628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/001-2013-fiat-500e628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat readying stripped-down 500 Cafe Racer concept for SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/fiat-readying-stripped-down-500-cafe-racer-concept-for-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/fiat-readying-stripped-down-500-cafe-racer-concept-for-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/fiat-readying-stripped-down-500-cafe-racer-concept-for-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We don't remember the last time we heard the phrase "cafe racer" applied to a car, but we'll get to see just such a beast at this week's SEMA show. Fiat is applying the cafe racer philosophy to a 500, which means chopping it, dropping it and stripping the lightweight machine down even further, "Taking it down to the essence of what you need to drive a car."

You can watch the story in the video below. We'll have lots of pictures of the real thing from Las Vegas in just a few days.

Continue reading Fiat readying stripped-down 500 Cafe Racer concept for SEMA

Fiat readying stripped-down 500 Cafe Racer concept for SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500cafe racerfiatsemasema 2012sema showvideovideosyoutubeMon, 29 Oct 2012 09:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20362879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/fiat-readying-stripped-down-500-cafe-racer-concept-for-sema/20362879/article-detail.xml 20362879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/semafiat500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/semafiat500.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler previews SEMA showcars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chrysler-previews-sema-showcars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chrysler-previews-sema-showcars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chrysler-previews-sema-showcars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mopar Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser headed for SEMA 2012

Chrysler is taking on the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas in a big way, with a sprawling 15,300 square-foot display encompassing a total of 24 modified vehicles. We got a chance to preview some of those creations, including the plucky little Fiat 500C you see above. Designers decided to take a page from the West Coast custom scene with unique widebody fender flares. The 500 Beach Cruiser sits a full foot wider front and rear thanks in part to a set of prototype aluminum wheels. We dig on the louvers and the wooden surfboard rack, too (though with the canvas lid slid back, we're guessing it'd make for some interesting tan lines).

Of course, it wouldn't be a Mopar booth without at least one outrageous engine swap. The Dodge Charger Juiced fills that role this year with a Viper V10 crate engine worth a full 650 horsepower. Other stars include the Chrysler 300 Luxury, with its unique True Blue Pearl paint and Katzkin leather interior, as well as the 392-powered Urban Ram and carbon-fiber laden Dodge Dart Carbon Fire (which appears to be nearly identical to the car we showed you in spy shots last week). You can check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Chrysler previews SEMA showcars

Chrysler previews SEMA showcars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300500500cchargerchryslerchrysler 300 luxurydartdodgedodge charger juiceddodge dart carbon firefiatfiat 500 beach cruisergrand cherokeejeepjeep grand cherokee half halfjeep wrangler sand troopermoparsemasema 2012sema showurban ramviperwranglerFri, 12 Oct 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20348694/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/12/chrysler-previews-sema-showcars/20348694/article-detail.xml 20348694 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mopar-fiat-500628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mopar-fiat-500628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori Serie puts customization program on display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-puts-customization-program-on-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-puts-customization-program-on-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-puts-customization-program-on-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori Serie - live at 2012 Paris Motor Show reveal

Customization programs are nothing new in the auto industry. For a fee, they offer a chance to work directly with the manufacturer to create a one-of-a-kind vehicle for the customer. These programs, however, are usually offered by makers of the most exotic, expensive and exclusive vehicles, like Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Porsche. It's not often that a manufacturer of, shall we say, a more humble stature, offers this type of vehicle personalization. Nevertheless, that's exactly what Fiat is doing with its "Fuori Serie" program.

The Italian automaker's new personalization program is being offered only for Abarth models, and is represented at the Paris Motor Show by the Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori Serie, a stunning reinterpretation of the Fiat Abarth 131 Mirafiori "Olio Fiat" livery that debuted at the 1976 Monte Carlo Rally. The matte yellow-and-blue colors of the livery are the most striking aspect of the car, but walking around it reveals other details like a hood that features a NACA duct on one side and louvered vent on the other, the highly polished wheels with yellow center caps that match the painted Brembo brake calipers, and lastly, the special "Fuori Serie" and "695" badging. Along with colors and finishes, Fuori Serie vehicles also get a special 180-horsepower tune of Abarth's 1.4-liter turbo that normally leaves the factory with 160 hp.

The 500 Abarth Fuori Serie is just one example of what a customer can create using Fiat's new program, which starts by choosing one of two customization collections: Heritage or New Wave. The car you see here came from the Heritage collection, which draws its colors, materials and finishes from Fiat's motorsports exploits. The New Wave collection, meanwhile, draws inspiration from the "modern world." We're not quite sure what that means, but hopefully Fiat will show up at the next international auto show with another Fuori Serie car to explain.

Continue reading 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori Serie puts customization program on display

2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Fuori Serie puts customization program on display originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 abarth fuori serie500500 abarth500 abarth fuori serieabarthcustomizationfiatheritagenew waveparisparis 2012paris motor showpersonalizationFri, 28 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20336067/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-puts-customization-program-on-d/20336067/article-detail.xml 20336067 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-fiat-500-abarth-fuori-serie-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler 200 successor to boast 38 mpg, 9-speed automatic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/chrysler-200-successor-to-boast-38-mpg-9-speed-automatic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/chrysler-200-successor-to-boast-38-mpg-9-speed-automatic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/chrysler-200-successor-to-boast-38-mpg-9-speed-automatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Chrysler 200 - front three-quarter view, silver

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the next-generation Chrysler 200 will show off a host of improvements, including a fuel economy rating of 38 miles per gallon on the highway. That's a jump of seven mpg over the current model, and much of that efficiency can be chalked up to a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Expect to see the revised 200 show up on dealer lots in the first quarter of 2014. The news came courtesy of a dealer meeting in Las Vegas, where Chrysler unveiled upwards of six new vehicles set to arrive within the next year and a half.

Chrysler reportedly also showed off its subcompact 100, said to be based on the Dodge Dart. Other vehicles shown at the dealer sit-down included a four-door version of the Fiat 500, the replacement for the Jeep Liberty and a new small Jeep as well. Both dealers and the manufacturer are keeping the rest of their secrets to themselves at the moment. Stay tuned.

Chrysler 200 successor to boast 38 mpg, 9-speed automatic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1002002014 chrysler 200500500l9-speedjeeplibertyTue, 11 Sep 2012 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20320676/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/11/chrysler-200-successor-to-boast-38-mpg-9-speed-automatic/20320676/article-detail.xml 20320676 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/chrysler-200-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/chrysler-200-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Perfectly Imperfect Pint-Sized Pocket Rocket

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth

You can learn a lot about a car by the way it sounds. Fire up a Lexus LS and you'll hear practically nothing. Rev the snot out of a BMW M3 and your ears will be beaten by high-pitched traces of Formula One; do the same with a Dodge Challenger SRT8 and you'll be taken back to 1970 with a low, burbling rumble.

Bear in mind that all of these machines mentioned are powered by V8 engines, long the bastion of beastly automotive soundtracks. Clearly, each car's designers tuned all eight cylinders, their assorted valves, camshafts and exhaust tracts, to produce a specific sound, and to good effect.

Imagine our surprise, then, when the ignition clicked in our tiny 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth and an aural symphony not unlike a Dremel shredding a Fender Stratocaster into tiny little specks of bass and treble emerged. And it makes all this sweet-sounding music with just 1.4-liters of displacement from its four turbocharged cylinders.

We had a feeling this was going to be fun.

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video]

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarth500 abarth photos500 abarth reviewfeaturedfiatreviewreviewsThu, 30 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20312288/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/30/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-video/20312288/article-detail.xml 20312288 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-1346287084_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fiat-500-abarth-review-1346287084.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500 Turbo unveiled with 135-HP 1.4L MultiAir, priced from $19,500*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-fiat-500-turbo-unveiled-with-135-hp-1-4l-multiair-priced-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-fiat-500-turbo-unveiled-with-135-hp-1-4l-multiair-priced-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/2013-fiat-500-turbo-unveiled-with-135-hp-1-4l-multiair-priced-f/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

Let's call this little guy Abarth Light. For 2013, Fiat is adding a new model to the 500 range, and if you find the base car's porridge to be a bit too cold but don't want the full viciousness of the hot Abarth, this middle child Turbo should be just right.

Fiat has employed a detuned version of its 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged inline-four, good for 135 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque.

The big change worth talking about is under the hood where Fiat has employed a detuned version of its 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged inline-four, good for 135 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. That represents increases of 34 and 52, respectively, over the standard 500, but falls 25 hp and 20 lb-ft short of the mighty Abarth. That grunt is matched with a five-speed manual transmission, and specific performance enhancements include a sport suspension, better steering calibration (to be fair, we've heard that one before with the Abarth), stiffer shocks and upgraded brakes. Sounds potent. And we certainly hope that the Turbo's sport-tuned exhaust delivers the same sort of throaty growl that we've fallen in love with on the Abarth. (In case you forgot, head over to our First Drive and hit the play button on the video to hear that superb exhaust note.)

Visually, the Turbo is set apart from base models with the addition of a unique aero kit and smoked-out headlamps. Inside the cabin there are sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and optional heated leather seats. The coolest interior feature, however, is that the 500 Turbo will employ the Chrysler Group's Beats by Dr. Dre audio system. Good, since the standard stereo in the 500 is, well, not good.

The 500 Turbo goes on sale this fall priced from $19,500, (*)excluding $700 for destination.

Which begs the question: Is this new Turbo model a better overall package than the super-fun Abarth? It's cheaper, offers the same sort of chassis upgrades, sacrifices a small amount of power and has that killer new sound system, all for a few thousand bucks less than the range-topping Scorpion. We'll have to wait until we get the Turbo out on the road before we decide. For now, scroll down for the full details in Fiat's press release.

Continue reading 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo unveiled with 135-HP 1.4L MultiAir, priced from $19,500*

2013 Fiat 500 Turbo unveiled with 135-HP 1.4L MultiAir, priced from $19,500* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 turbo500500 turbofiatFri, 17 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20302981/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/17/2013-fiat-500-turbo-unveiled-with-135-hp-1-4l-multiair-priced-f/20302981/article-detail.xml 20302981 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-fiat-500t-concorso_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-fiat-500t-concorso.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat augments 500 range with Abarth 595 models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/fiat-augments-500-range-with-abarth-595-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/fiat-augments-500-range-with-abarth-595-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/fiat-augments-500-range-with-abarth-595-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth Special Editions

Before you get too excited about these special Abarth models, understand that these are for the UK and we're not getting them, at least not yet - maybe we'll see it Stateside if Fiat sales need an injection next year...

The two special models are named 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione. The former isn't all that exciting compared to the American Fiat 500 Abarth anyway, basically just packaging typical aftermarket-style upgrades like 17-inch alloys, aluminum pedals, leather, Xenon headlights and red brake calipers, among other equipment. The Competizione is the interesting one, adding ungraded shocks, cross-drilled disc brake rotors, Sabelt seats and a Monza exhaust system to the equipment list.

List price for the Turismo is £17,725 (about $27,725) and the Competizione is £18,725 (roughly $29,295) and both models are available in 500C convertible guise as well. Keep in mind that like most quoted UK prices those include taxes and licensing fees.

Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Fiat augments 500 range with Abarth 595 models

Fiat augments 500 range with Abarth 595 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 abarth500abarthabarth 595abarth 595 competizioneabarth 595 turismofiatWed, 08 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20291273/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/08/fiat-augments-500-range-with-abarth-595-models/20291273/article-detail.xml 20291273 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fiat-500-abarth-special-edition_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fiat-500-abarth-special-edition.jpg <![CDATA[Jay Leno burns rubber in a Fiat 500 Abarth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/jay-leno-burns-rubber-in-a-fiat-500-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/jay-leno-burns-rubber-in-a-fiat-500-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/jay-leno-burns-rubber-in-a-fiat-500-abarth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



As you can see from the screen grab above, some people get to have all the fun. Jay Leno, who owns more cars than you will ever drive in your lifetime, was graced with the presence of a Fiat 500 Abarth at his garage.

Now, this was not the first time that Fiat has stopped off with the potent Italian runabout. Fiat dropped in on Leno with an Abarth back in December of last year, but this time he was able to take it out on the road and put the performance-minded 500 through its paces. And that he did.

Leno owns the very second 500 to be sold in America, and raised the question: Is the Abarth good enough for an upgrade? We certainly think so, but Jay took to the Los Angeles streets to find out. Along the way, he mused about how the Abarth would stack up against the Ferrari Dino and the future of the performance automobile. To find out what Jay thought of the Fiat 500 Abarth check out the video below.

Continue reading Jay Leno burns rubber in a Fiat 500 Abarth

Jay Leno burns rubber in a Fiat 500 Abarth originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500 abarth500500 abarthabarthburnoutfiatgaragejay lenojay lenos garagetest driveThu, 26 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287037/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/26/jay-leno-burns-rubber-in-a-fiat-500-abarth/20287037/article-detail.xml 20287037 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/leno-abarth_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/leno-abarth.jpg <![CDATA[Did Fiat just reveal the new 500T in its new commercial?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/did-fiat-just-reveal-the-new-500t-in-its-new-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/did-fiat-just-reveal-the-new-500t-in-its-new-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/did-fiat-just-reveal-the-new-500t-in-its-new-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat 500T? -

Fiat may have given us all an early glimpse of its upcoming 500T in a new ad. The Italian automaker has just released a new one-minute commercial called "Immigrants" showing a flotilla of submarine 500 models working their way from Italy to New York via the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Once the quirky little hatches show up on U.S. shores, something interesting makes an appearance. A 500 wearing Abarth body lines and Sport trim wheels comes rocketing around a corner.

We've heard plenty of buzz about a new 500T model designed to slot below the Abarth in the 500 stable, but it's unclear exactly what that machine will look like when it bows. It's entirely possible the commercial's producers simply had to swap a set of wheels after an incident on set and that this isn't what it seems to be, but we're guessing it's an intentional split-second teaser. Either way, it's worth taking a closer look at the video below.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents revealed in early April that Fiat is planning to flesh out its 500 line, and that new model called the 500T Sport was part of that mix. Details have been scarce since then, but a model with Abarth-like power and a slightly lower profile would seem to make some sense, as there's a pretty decent $pread between a base $15,500 500 Pop and the $22,000 Abarth.

Continue reading Did Fiat just reveal the new 500T in its new commercial?

Did Fiat just reveal the new 500T in its new commercial? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500500t500t sportcinquecentocommercialfiatfiat 500fiat 500tfiat 500t sportfiat adfiat commercialvideoMon, 16 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20279038/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/16/did-fiat-just-reveal-the-new-500t-in-its-new-commercial/20279038/article-detail.xml 20279038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fiat-500t-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fiat-500t-628.jpg -1 2