Fiat 500C 1.2 Pop 3dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £13,420
Tax Band: C
Insurance Group: 9
MPG: 58.9
CO2: 113
0-62 Mph: 12.9 secs
BHP: 69 BHP
Range: 453 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4/5
For those looking for an affordable and competent open car, the Fiat 500C 1.2 Pop fairs admirably. Performance levels are respectable and the low running costs and decent purchase price are sure to tempt buyers. Upgrading to a more advanced trim level is recommended however, as the lack of luxury in-car tech could leave some drivers a little disappointed.

PROS:  Low insurance premiums and road tax costs make this affordable open car cheap to maintain once on the road. Fuel consumption is healthy and there is a fair amount of power for a small car.

CONS:  Acceleration could be better and the top speed is a little disappointing. The basic trim level leaves a little to be desired and those looking for a stylish open car will need to invest some extra money in optional extras.

Behind the Wheel

With 69 bhp at 5500 rpm and torque figures of 75 lb-ft at 3000 rpm, the 500C 1.2 Pop packs the same punch as Fiat's other city car, the 1.2 Panda. Acceleration is a little faster than in the Panda however, with the 1.2 litre 500C reaching 62 mph in a reasonable 12.9 seconds.

A top speed of 99mph is adequate for city use but enthusiastic drivers may find that the 500 feels a little breathless at speed.

Looks & Equipment

As the Pop is the most basic trim level available within the Fiat 500C range the level of in-car tech is not particularly extensive. Standard equipment on the Pop trim level includes power steering, central locking, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and an advanced stereo system with MP3 connectivity.

Bluetooth connectivity, climate control and rear parking sensors cost an additional £265 apiece whilst alloy wheels and stability control are priced at £315 apiece.

The 500 has retro looks which are effortlessly stylish. The shape and overall design of the exterior is smooth and attractive and well proportioned.

Interior design is fairly uncluttered and a well organised dash makes it easy for drivers to navigate their way around different controls.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Interior space is a little restricted in the rear of the vehicle but, as a small car, this is to be expected. The boot is fairly small at just 185 litres with the seats up and 520 litres with the seats down.

The 500C is a fairly safe car, however, with driver, passenger and front side airbags all provided as standard features. The car scored five stars in the NCAP crash tests and this means drivers should have plenty of confidence over their purchase.

Paying the extra money for stability control and rear parking sensors is recommended and a three year warranty at 60,000 miles is provided for peace of mind.


Value for Money

Priced at just £12,900 the 500C 1.2 Pop is essentially a cheap and cheerful model but the slight lack of standard equipment is not enough to compromise the buyer's enjoyment of the car.

Fuel consumption stands at an impressive 58.9mpg and CO2 emissions of just 113g/km put the the 500C in VED band C, so taxing the car will be cheap.

Those interested in long term ownership should consider upgrading the trim to get additional luxuries which will elevate the standard of the car. However, even at this basic level the car is desirable and that means resale values should remain fairly stable.

Fiat 500C 1.2 Pop 3dr Car Review - by 
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