NEW FOR 2012:

– All-new model

An all-new model for 2012, the Fiat 500 marks the return of the Italian automaker to the Canadian marketplace.

The 500 is available as a coupe or a convertible, called the Cabrio or 500c. Both models use a 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine with MultiAir variable valve actuation, mated to a five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. Trim levels on the coupe are the Pop, Lounge and Sport. The Cabrio comes in Pop and Lounge trim and features a power-operated retractable soft roof insert. The Sport coupe can also be ordered as the higher-performance Abarth, which uses a turbocharged version of the 1.4-litre four-cylinder with a five-speed manual transmission.

Standard features on the Pop include 15-inch steel wheels, hill start assist, driver’s knee airbag, active front head restraints, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, power windows, power locks, heated mirrors, floor mats, driver’s seat height adjuster, chrome door handles, electronic vehicle information centre, trip computer and tire pressure monitoring system.

The Lounge adds 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, chrome fascia accents, chrome mirror caps, fog lamps, panoramic sunroof, leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Sirius satellite radio, Bose premium stereo, security alarm, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Blue & Me hands-free communication technology, USB port and iPod interface.

The Sport builds on the Pop and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, sport suspension, unique fascias, body sill cladding, rear spoiler, red painted brake calipers, chrome exhaust tip, fog lamps, sport seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Blue & Me hands-free communication technology, USB port and iPod interface.

The Abarth adds 16-inch Abarth design alloy wheels, unique fascias, additional front air intake, sport suspension, projector-beam fog lamps, side skirts, fender flares, red brake calipers, black-accented diffuser, rear spoiler, double-tip exhaust, flat-bottom steering wheel, leather-wrapped instrument cluster brow, LED shift light, aluminum pedal covers, and performance sport seats.

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