What's the news?
Fiat has updated the 500 for 2014 with a new engine, a new top of the range, Cult model and a selection of other enhancements. Based on the Lounge trim specification the Cult has a higher level of standard equipment; other 500 variants are the entry-level Pop, the Colour Therapy, with white detailing and sporty 500S. The new models are on sale now with prices starting at £10,160.
Exterior
There are no big styling changes but the 500 Cult can be identified by its 16-inch alloy wheels and black roof panel with fixed glass sunroof; unless it is the soft-top 500C version, which gets front fog lamps instead. The 500S does without the glass roof but does feature unique bumpers at both ends and side skirts; standard wheels are 15-inch alloys with 16-inch items available as an option.
Interior
For 2014 there is a new TFT digital instrument display as standard on 500S and Cult models and optional on the Lounge version. It retains the familiar layout of speedo, rev counter and trip computer, but is able to show much more information. The display is compatible with telephone and navigation readouts including the dealer supplied TomTom 2 Live satellite navigation system. To encourage efficient driving there is a more prominent gear shift light and an 'eco' gauge, which changes to a boost gauge on 105hp TwinAir models when the Sport button is pressed.
Mechanicals
A new, 105hp TwinAir engine has joined the range. It is a turbocharged, 0.9-litre, two-cylinder unit with a stop-start system to save fuel. Driving through a six-speed manual gearbox Fiat claims 0-62mph in 10.0 seconds and a 117mph top speed with official fuel economy of 67.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 99g/km.
Anything else?
Other features of the range-topping Fiat 500 Cult include climate control, Poltrona Frau leather upholstery and rear parking sensors. It is priced from £13,060 for the hatchback or £15,560 for the 500C.
John Lambert - 28 May 2014