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Fiat 500: Test Drive
Date: 09 July 2007 | Author: Guy Bird
Fiat 500
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Selling the idea of what, in the UK at least, is likely to be an expensive, basic spec three-door city car that's largely far from quick and offers below average rear headroom would be very tough - if it didn't look as fantastic as the new Fiat 500.
The appeal starts with its front that strongly echoes the 1950s Fiat 500 and has the same childlike round 'smiling' lights. This is not an aggressive car that frowns.
The interior - in Lounge trim - is also superb, featuring a wonderful cream-coloured leather steering wheel, huge Mini-style analogue dial, wide body-coloured metal-looking dash panel trim, and distinctive disc-shaped firm, foam headrests. It's retro-inspired but thoroughly modern in delivery.
Rear elbow and knee room is fine, but tall passengers shouldn't attempt to sit up too straight. Boot space at 185 litres is okay for its class (the Toyota Aygo only has 139 and the Mini 160) and in Lounge trim you get 50/50 split/fold rear seats to increase practicality.
