2012 Fiat 500 Preview

In 2011, Fiat returned to North America after a 28-year break, but as the old saying goes "the more things change the more they stay the same" as is the case here. Known as the "Cinquecento" in the rest of the world, the small 2012 500 spearhead Fiat's return to North America after the Italian company acquired the Chrysler Group. Because gas prices are still unstable, the 500 are the next big (or small), like the manual transmission model hovers just under 40 mpg on the highway.

For now the only engine offered is a compact 1.4-liter engine that produces 101 horsepower and is mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. Although it does not sound like much, the 500 weighs 218 pounds less than his arch rival the Mini Cooper, as well as cans of 20 less horsepower. While the 500 shows a tremendous amount of promise of the unknown reliability could dislodge perspective buyers. The 500 is not the most spacious car in the market, but it does have a unique look to turn heads.

New for the 2012 model year is an optional retractable soft top. Although not a true convertible, the soft top model gives the feeling of open-air motoring, but with the advantage of a fully enclosed top when not in use, along with a stiffer body structure to a more comfortable ride.

Bodystyles: Hatchback, convertible

Engine: 1.4-liter inline-4

Transmissions: five-speed manual, six-speed automatic

Models: Pop, Sport, Lounge

With the 500 hatchback, Fiat returns to North America for the first time since 1984.

The 2012 version of the popular Fiat 500 has the same exterior styling that signs of a common vehicle on the road in Europe after World War II. The signature 'whiskers and logo' face is shifted to 2012, together with the oval headlights. The roof retains the original diagonal line, and can be seen from the side more than head-on or rear. The Sport model rides on 16 -inch alloy wheels and firmer suspension receives, and a spoiler. The Lounge gets 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and a fixed glass roof.

From the moment you step into the 500 it is clear that the Mini was in Fiat's cross hairs during production. Although not as many customizable features are available on the 500 compared to its British rival to the 500 can still hold its own. The control layout is simpler than the Cooper. The available "Blue & Me" voice-activated iPod controls are weak, but there is a plug-in. There are more hard surfaces in the 500 than other cars its size, but the space is pretty good. Besides the Smart Fortwo, the 500 is the smallest car available in the U.S., but surprisingly enough legroom for tall drivers the most satisfaction.

The latest 500 gets its motivation from a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that is responsible for 101 hp. While that may not sound like much of the 500 weighs only 2.363 lbs, so not much is needed to power it. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Pop and Sport models, the six-speed automatic is optional on models and standard on the Lounge. The manual gearbox provides great fuel for a small car, but the automatic transmission fuel economy is far worse than the other competitor.

Standard safety features on the 2012 500 including anti-lock brakes, front and rear airbags, brake assist, and child seat anchors. Other safety features include stability and traction control, electronic brake force distribution and a headrest Whiplash Protection System.

Manual-30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway

Automatic 27-mpg city / 34 mpg highway