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Friday, December 27, 2013

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' Video




Here is the latest video on the new Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' model that was unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show back in September this year. The Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' celebrates the original Abarth 595 that debuted 50 years ago on September 15, 1963. That Fiat Abarth 595 took the normal Fiat 500 to an extreme level, doubling the horsepower of the standard car with the elaborate engine modifications that Abarth is famous for. Abarth also modified the trim of the car and the 595 quickly became a status symbol for those who love to drive quick and agile small cars.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary'

The new car follows in those footsteps quite well. With a 180 HP 1.4 T-Jet engine that is more than double that of the base 500's 69 hp and trim that stands out from even the already hot looking standard Abarth's, the '50th Anniversary' model is a fitting tribute to the original.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' and original

The Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' edition uses the Magneti Marelli Record Monza variable back-pressure "dual mode" exhaust that has a valve that opens the exhaust at engine speeds over 3,000 rpm, improving engine performance and giving the car a wicked sound.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' rear

An Abarth Competizione gearbox is used in the 595 '50th Anniversary'. This is an automated manual gearbox that can shift by itself or shifted manually via the paddle shifters on either side of the steering wheel. The first appearance of the Abarth Competizione gearbox was in 1949 when one of Carlo Abarth's first performance products offered was a competition gearbox with steering wheel controls for the Fiat Topolino.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary'dashboard

White seats with red leather seating surfaces and 595 emblazoned into the headrests show off the unique interior of the new car. Red dashboard counterpoints the white exterior.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' interior

The inspiration for the Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' edition is the original 595 from 1963. Abarth worked their magic and increased the displacement of the standard Fiat 500 from 499.5 cc to 595 cc and the power went to 27 HP, more than doubling the stock car's. Along with the substantial performance increase, Abarth wanted to make sure everyone knew this was one hot car, so he added a special grille, badging and offered a host of accessories so you could personalize the car the way you wanted to. Ever wonder why your new Abarth has badges on the sides? It's called heritage! Or as Abarth says the car "looks to the future without betraying its past."

Fiat Abarth 595

Xenon headlights, Brembo 4 piston caliper brakes, 17 inch Magnesium Grey wheels with red liners and special badges and stripes complete the package.

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' wheels

Only 299 of the Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' will be made and, like all Abarth special editions, expect the model to be quickly sold out. Abarth is also starting a promotional campaign celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 595. A digital rally is planned, along with videos, and a phone app that looks like fun. Keep your eye out for these.

Update:  Go here to get the Abarth Sound System Phone App! 

Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' badge

New 2014 Abarth 595 '50th Anniversary' SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions are in inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Vehicle Type A-segment hatchback
Tychy, Poland

BODY/CHASSIS

Layout Transverse-mounted front engine, front-wheel drive
Construction Unitized steel body

ENGINE: 1.4-LITER SOHC 16-VALVE TURBOCHARGED INLINE FOUR-CYLINDER

Type and Description: Inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, turbocharged
Displacement: 83.48 cu. in. (1368 cu. cm)
Bore x Stroke: 2.83 x 3.31 in. (72.0 x 84.0 mm)
Valve System: Belt-driven, DOHC, 16 valves
Construction: Cast-iron block with aluminum-alloy head and aluminum-alloy bedplate
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Fuel Feed: Sequential Multipoint electronic injection
with fixed geometry turbocharger
Turbocharger: Garret 1446 Fixed Nozzle Turbine
Maximum: Turbo Boost (psi / bar) 22 psi / 1.5 bar
Exhaust: Magneti Marelli Record Monza Dual Mode
Power (SAE): 180 bhp (132 kW) @ 5,500 rpm (131 bhp/L)
Torque (SAE):
Normal: 169 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) @ 2,000 rpm
Sport: 184 lb.-ft. (250 N•m) @ 3,000 rpm
Max. Engine Speed: 6,500 rpm (electronically limited)
Oil Capacity: 3.06 qt. (2.9L) with dry filter
Coolant Capacity: 5.4 qt. (5.15L)
Fuel: Unleaded petrol 95 RON or 98 RON
(Specification EN228)
Performance: Max speed: 140+ mph
0-62 mph: under 7 secs


SPECIFICATIONS

TRANSMISSION: MTA C510 WITH PADDLE SHIFTERS
Five forward speeds plus reverse with
electronically managed electrohydraulic control system


ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery: 250 A, 50 amp/hr

SUSPENSION
Front:
MacPherson suspension, coil spring with KONI Frequency
Selective Damping (FSD) twin-tube shock absorbers and 0.79 (20 mm) stabilizer
bar
Rear:
Rear twist-beam axle with coil springs with KONI Frequency
Selective Damping (FSD) twin-tube shock absorbers with 0.83 (21 mm) solid stabilizer bar

STEERING
Type: Power rack and pinion with electric power steering

BRAKES
Front:
Rotor size and type: Drilled and vented, multi-section, diameter
11.2 x 1.10 (285 x 28)
Caliper size and type: Brembo Monobloc fixed front calipers with 4 x ø 36/40 mm pistons
Swept area: NA
Rear:
Rotor size and type: 9.4 x 0.4 (240 x 11) drilled and solid
Caliper size and type: Floating rear calipers with single ø 34 mm pistons
Swept area: 153 sq. in. (984 sq. cm)
Brake Pads: HP 1000 high performance front brake pads

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES(B)
Wheelbase: 90.6 (2300)
Track: Front 55.5 (1409)
Track: Rear 55.2 (1402)
Overall Length: 143.98 (3657)
Overall Width: 64.1 (1627)
74.5 (1893) with side mirrors
Overall Height: 58.5 (1485) to roof
Ground Clearance: 4.0 (1032)
Curb Weight lb. (kg):
Unladen weight (with all fluids, fuel tank filled
to 90% and without optional equipment)lb. (kg): 2359 (1070)
Fuel Tank Capacity: gal. (L) 9.25 (35)


WHEELS
Size: 7J x 17 H2 ET38

TIRES
Size: 205/40 R17 84W XL


Read More:
 
 


Friday, December 20, 2013

Fiat 500L with All Wheel Drive Spotted



Spy shots of upcoming Fiat 500 models have been making the rounds on the internet. The latest is a video of a Fiat 500L with AWD undergoing testing high altitude testing in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Speculation is that the vehicle spotted is a test mule for the upcoming AWD Fiat 500X crossover, due to hit production in the third quarter of next year, but could also be an AWD version of the 500L. Since Fiat re-entered the US market in 2011, fans have been clamoring for the company to bring in the Panda 4x4, a car that has an international reputation as a go anywhere do anything car. Fiat has been mum on any news that the Panda is coming here, though.

Fiat 500L AWD rear suspension


There is no secret that the AWD Fiat 500X crossover is coming, however, what other Fiats are coming down the road have been subject to much speculation. Earlier this year, Fiat brand chief Gianluca Italia confirmed the 500X is in the pipeline, but had been quoted as saying "there’s a limit to the number of variants the company can make to leverage the car’s strong identity." And also stated that no further models would be added to the 500 line-up.

2015 Fiat 500X


This is at odds with other reports that Fiat will distill its offerings down to just two nameplates or sub-brands - the Panda and the 500. These two models are the best selling cars in their market segment, and the 500 in particular is a highly profitable model. The Panda lineup would stand for strong value and the 500 would be aimed at buyers wanting a premium experience. This would be quite a change of directions for Fiat, who has been a full line manufacturer of cars for all segments for more than 100 years.

Fiat European Product Plan 2010-2014
Fiat plans from 2010 called for many new models, however, all were canceled except for the Panda and MPV (Fiat 500L) models due to poor economic conditions.

This is in response to abysmal European car sales - the lowest in more than 20 years. Sales across the region have fallen for six consecutive years. Fiat has been particularly hard hit because of its traditional reliance on European and Italian auto sales in contrast to Volkswagen who has a larger international footprint and is taking advantage of better US and Chinese market conditions. Fiat sales have fallen to levels not seen in decades and has been saved from total disaster with strong sales in Brazil and in the US through its alliance with Chrysler.

What is even more alarming is the European market isn't expected to recover for maybe another four or five years. Fiat's plan to focus on two of its most profitable cars is the company's way of riding out the storm and breaking even in the most expeditious time frame. Concentrating on the 500 and Panda will also free up resources so Fiat can invest in high margin Alfa Romeo models. It is notoriously expensive to build cars in Italy and these high profit cars are key to keeping Fiat's Italian factories running. All told, Fiat is expected to invest $12.3 billion (9 billion euros)in new models in the coming years.


2013 Fiat Punto
The attractive 2013 Fiat Punto is Fiats third best selling model but is essentially a facelifted version of the model introduced in 2005. Originally the car was to have been redesigned in 2013, but has been put off due to the economic crises in Europe. Fiat sales last year were the lowest since 1979. When asked about the delay, Sergio Marchionne has been quoted in the media saying, "If the Italian market stays as it is, launching the Punto now would be a huge failure, we'd never be able to repay the investment." Latest speculation is the new Punto replacement will be a five door member of the Fiat 500 family. A two door version would be nice, but is not expected.


Besides the 500X, there will most certainly be a larger 500 variant slotted to replace the B segment Fiat Punto. The Punto, which is slightly smaller than a VW Golf, is currently the brand's No. 3-selling model in Europe after the Panda and 500; however, a replacement is now long overdue. The redesigned Punto was scheduled to arrive this year but had been put on hold because of poor economic conditions in Europe. Now company insiders are mentioning that when the new Punto comes out sometime in 2016 it will be badged as a larger 500 model in five door form. Abarth fans looking forward for a new car in the future would love a two door version, but that sadly is not likely. According to sources inside the company, sales of two door hatchbacks have lost their popularity with the public and the investment is difficult to justify.


Abarth Punto Evo

So will Fiat expand the 500 lineup or not? We'll see how all this plays out after the end of the first quarter next year when Fiat reveals its new five year plan sometime in April.

Read more:

500L image: AlVolante.it
Video: TFL car

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Fiat 500 November Sales for 2013

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking


Fiat has reported sales figures for November, and they show an overall drop of 1 percent over last year's sales totals for the year. Breaking down the numbers for November, Fiat sold 2,138 hatchbacks and Cabrios which is a 41 percent drop compared to November 2012 sales figures  of 3,306. Sales last month of the 500L were also off when compared to the previous month - 937 versus 1,296 units. Overall year to date, Fiat sold 39,941 cars this year compared to 40,065 last year and needs to sell 3,831 cars in December just to match last year's ending sales total of 43,772.

Fiat 500L luggage area
Didn't know the subcompact Fiat 500L can accommodate objects nearly 8 feet long or has the interior room of a fullsize car? Don't feel bad, most of America doesn't know either. Critics say current Fiat commercials while fun, are spending too much time focusing on beach parties with Pitbull and not enough time introducing the car to its key demographic.


What sticks in your mind about this commercial? Is it the car or the bikini bottoms and crab? Does it communicate the core values and strengths of what the family oriented 500L is about? What do you think? Tell us on the forum.

Total Fiat sales this year have been running neck and neck with last year's sales totals despite the introduction of the larger 5-door 500L in June. Sales of the 500 hatchback and Cabrio models took a hit when the 500L was introduced. Dealers talked to mention that showroom traffic is not there and point to a national advertising campaign that seems to be missing the mark. The latest ads for the 500L, one of the roomiest and versatile family cars in its segment, focuses on girls in bikinis and does nothing to show off the feature rich 500L. How ads, more memorable for women getting undressed in the back seat of a car, can relate to buyers of family cars is open to debate. Six months into the launch, it may be time to showcase more of the 500L's capabilities.

Sales of some of Fiat's competitors have also experienced a sales slump this year. The improving economy and steady or declining energy costs are factors that traditionally impact small car sales and have no doubt played a role. Below are a few examples of how some of Fiat's competitors are doing this year.


Percentage compared to the previous YTD totals*
  • Kia Soul -2.4%
  • MINI Cooper -4.6%
  • Smart FourTwo -10.3%
  • Scion Tc -16.6%
  • Hyundai Veloster -17.4%
  • Toyota Yaris -24%
  • Mazda 2 -29%

Whatever the reason for the current sales performance, what is clear is Fiat needs to bring more people into the showroom to experience all the unique and award winning 500 and 500L models. When that happens, look for a reversal of the past few months. Don't be surprised if you see some changes real soon.

Fiat 500L Adventurer Concept Car

November Recap
Fiat kicked off November with a splash, showing off customized 2014 Fiat 500L models at the 2013 SEMA Show. The Fiat display this year highlighted what you can do to a 500L with a little imagination and the Mopar Accessory Catalog. Speaking of splashes, a fleet of four Fiat 500 watercrafts escorted the new Italian MSC Divina Cruise Liner on her maiden voyage to her home in PortMiami, drawing much publicity in the important Miami and south Florida market.

Fiat 500 Watercraft and MSC Divina

The 500 also received more honors this month. First up was the 2014 Fiat 500e being named “Best Electric” by Road&Track magazine. The 500e was also named best electric vehicle by Spanish-language automotive radio show, Ruedas ESPN, and “top electric vehicle” in the Northwest Automotive Press Association’s “Drive Revolution” green car competition. Topping off the month was the 500e being named by the Hispanic Motor Press Awards panel as one of Top Ten Cars of 2014 for Hispanic families.

Fiat 500 1957 Edition at LA Auto Show

Fiat at LA Auto Show
Fiat unveiled its new 2014 500 hatchback, Cabrio and Abarth lineup at the LA Auto Show last month. New 2014 Fiat 500 hatchbacks and Cabrios feature several changes designed to enhance the ownership experience. The front passenger seat has been revised and now sits 1 inch (25 mm) lower for more headroom. Additionally, the passenger seat now has seat position memory with the tilt/slide seat handle operating just like the driver's, making it easier to get in and out of the back seat. An arm rest has also now been provided for the passenger. These changes were the response to the most often asked for requests by owners of the 500.

Fiat 500 Sport Interior in Avorio

2014 Fiat 500 Sport models can be had with a new Avorio (ivory) accented interior and new sculpted five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels are available.

Two new exterior colors have also been added to the lineup: Granito Lucente (granite crystal) and Nero Puro (straight black). These replace last year's Grigio (grey metallic) and Nero (black metallic)) paints.

The 2014 Fiat 500 Abarth models share the same passenger seat modifications and color changes. There is also a new 16 inch multi-spoke aluminum wheel finished in Hyper Nero (black) available as an option.

Fiat 500 1957 Edition and Original

New Fiat 500 Debuts
Fiat also debuted a new version of the 500 at the LA Auto Show. Called the Fiat 500 "1957 Edition," the new car pays homage to the iconic 1957 Fiat 500. Vintage badging, unique steel wheels and exterior and interior colors and trim captures the classic look of the original. Based on the 500 Lounge model, the 1957 Edition borrows the suspension from the 500 Sport and Turbo models for a very nimble and lively driving experience. Look for the limited production 2014 Fiat 500 1957 Edition to be available sometime in April next year.




Fiat 500 Sales in the United States - January - November 2013
Fiat 500Current MonthLast YearVol ChangeCurrent YTD TotalLast Year YTD TotalVol Change
Nov 2013
500
500L
 

    2,138
    937
    3,075

  3,603
   new
  3,603

    -41%
     new
    -15%

        33,510
          5,981
       39,491

        40,065
                 0
        40,065

    -16%
     new
    -1%
Oct 2013
500
500L
 

    2,378
    1,296
    3,674

  3,720
   new
  3,720

    -36%
     new
    -1%

        31,372
          5,044
       36,416

        36,462
                 0
        36,462

    -14%
     new
    0%
Sept 2013
500
500L
 

    2,126
    1,031
    3,157

  4,176
   new
  4,176

    -49%
     new
    -24%

        28,994
          3,748
       32,742

        32,742
                 0
        32,742

    -11%
     new
    0%
August 2013
500
500L
 

    2,976
    1,214
    4,190

  4,150
   new
  4,150

    -28%
     new
    +1%

        26,868
          2,717
       29,585

        28,566
                 0
        24,416

     -6%
     new
    +4%
July 2013
500
500L
 

    2,821
     962
   3,783

  3,710
   new
  3,710

    -24%
     new
    +2%

        23,892
           1503
       25,395

        24,416
                 0
        24,416

     -2%
     new
    +4%
June 2013
500
500L
 

    3,509
     541
   4,050

  4,004
   new
  4,004

    -12%
     new
    +1%

        21,071
            541
       21,612

        20,706
                 0
        20,706

     -2%
     new
    +4%
May 2013      4,051  4,003     +1%        17,562        16,702  +5%
April 2013      3,899  3,849      +1%        13,511        12,699   +6%
March 2013      3,807  3,712      +3%         9,612          8,850   +9%
February 2013      3,302  3,227      +2%         5,805          5,138   +13%
January 2013      2,503  1,911     +31%         2,503          1,911   +31%

Read more:

* Through Oct 2013. Source: Good Car Bad Car

Friday, November 29, 2013

Fiat Big Finish Sale Ending Soon!

Fiat 500c with Fiat Brand Ambassador Megan Agrusa

Now is definitely the time to buy a new Fiat, incentives are off the hook! Fiat is giving a $500 "Loyalty cash" (if you own any Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram/Fiat) discount OR $500 "Conquest cash" (own any brand, not required to trade) discount on any new 2013 Fiat 500, even Abarth, AbarthC or 2014 500L!*

Dealers and owners are reporting huge discounts - usually over $2000 on Fiat 2 doors and $3000 off Abarth or Abarth Cabrio. At least $1000 on 500L up to $1500 off. The Fiat Big Finish Sale for 2013 is running only until Monday, 12/2/13... so make sure you get down to your Fiat Studio now!

Here are a couple of examples we've found over at Benson FIAT:

Benson Fiat Big Finish Sale

2013 Fiat 500 Pop: MSRP: $16900...discount with new $500 bonus is now $13,900 plus tax, tag, title.

Benson FIAT 500 Abarth

Abarth with Beats Audio/Leather Seats / 17" Hyper black wheels / Mirror caps and red Stripes MSRP: $25,250... discount with new $500 bonus is now $21,750.


Contact the Fiat Studios below and get in on the savings! Follow the links to see the deals!

Criswell FIAT of Gaithersburg, Maryland - 1-888-878-2488

FIAT of Austin, Texas - 1-877-908-3428

Palmen FIAT of Kenosha, Wisconsin - 1-888-379-0295

Benson FIAT, South Carolina - 1-888-380-1716

FIAT of Larchmont, New York - 1-888-405-2249


or go to the Fiat USA website here to find your nearest dealer.




*Incentives can vary from region to region so make sure you contact your local Fiat Dealer to find out what is current in your area.
Abarth image not actual car for sale, but represents color and options..

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Fiat Chief Stoicevich Interviewed at LA Auto Show

Fiat at the 2013 LA Auto Show

In the video posted below, Jason Stoicevich, Head of Fiat Brand North America, talks about the 2014 Fiat 500 models on display at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The 2013 LA Auto Show runs through December 1st. Make sure you visit the Fiat stand and see the updates for 2014. Visit the links below to learn more about the 2014 Fiat 500.



Read more:

Image: Courtesy of Fiat USA

Monday, November 25, 2013

Fiat Recreates Masterpiece at LA Auto Show

Fiat 500L Masterpiece at LA Auto Show

Fiat has commissioned an artist to recreate the Michelangelo painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel on the inside roof of a Fiat 500L at the LA Auto Show. The artist, Italian painter Nicola Verlato, will replicate the iconic masterpiece over the course of six days right on the show floor while the public watches. Fiat is doing this to showcase the advanced design and roominess of the 500L, a car that within its subcompact length has the interior room of a full-size car and tie in the heritage of classic Italian design, engineering and art that Michelangelo represents.



Nicola Verlato, laying on his back and using oil and watercolor, will recreate specific scenes from the Sistine Chapel painting. Fiat will have daily updates so you can watch Verlato's work. Bookmark this post to see the progress.



Last month, the Fiat 500L was put on display at the Gallery of Modern Art in Torino, Italy in a show that pays tribute to Renoir, one of the founders and leading painters of the Impressionist style. Light and color are the key elements of Renoir's painting philosophy and also the elements that make up the design of the 500L's interior. Special attention was payed to having a bright and airy pasenger compartment aided by the 500L's extensive window area. The shapes and colors used throughout the interior are also designed to evoke positve human emotions and feelings.











Read more:

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Fiat Live from 2013 LA Auto Show!

Fiat 500 1957 Edition at LA Auto Show


Can't make it to the LA Auto Show? No worries. Watch Jason Stoicevich, Head of Fiat Brand North America introduce the new 2014 Fiat 500 lineup and special editions at the LA Auto Show live today, starting at 5:30pm EST and running to 6:00pm EST. Don't miss it!*

While you are waiting for the event to begin, make sure you check out the links below to get up to speed on all the new 2014 Fiat 500 models.

* The presentation is over, but we'll see if we can get highlights and re-post them here for those who missed the preview.



Read more:

Monday, November 18, 2013

Fiat 500 Lamp Fogging and Condensation

Fiat 500 Abarth Headlight Fogging

Occasionally you may notice the head lights or tail light assemblies on your Fiat 500 fog up or have condensation on the inside of the lens. The question then comes up if this is normal or indicative of a problem in the lamp's sealing. We'll take a look at the official way of evaluating this concern so you know if you have a problem or not, and save you the inconvenience of an unnecessary visit to your Fiat Studio's service department.

The inside lens of an exterior lamp can fog with a layer of condensation after you turn off the lights, and the lamp has been rapidly cooled by cold water, such as rain or a car wash, etc. Depending on atmospheric conditions, you may also notice in the morning the lens has fog after the car has been parked outside overnight. This is common when the previous day was warm and humid followed by a clear, cool night.

This will normally clear up once conditions allow the condensation to change back into a vapor. Turning on the lamps typically speeds up the process. If you are concerned there is a problem, though, here is how to tell.

Fiat 500 Abarth Headlight


First, park your car inside and dry all water from the outside surface of the lens. Then operate the lamps for 20 minutes. If the condensation/fogging has begun to clear from the lamp lens after 20 minutes with the lamps operating, this indicates the lamp sealing has not been breached, and the lamp does not need to be replaced.

If the condensation/fogging has not begun to clear after 20 minutes with the lamps operating, or the lamp has large amounts of water droplets visible on most internal surfaces, this shows there is an issue with the lamp sealing that has allowed water to enter the lamp. Typically when that is the case, moisture in the lamp will always be present and will never seem to disappear. A lamp that exhibits internal moisture permanently should be replaced.

Read more:

Source: Chrysler LLC

Thursday, November 14, 2013

New Fiat 500 “1957 Edition” to Debut!

2014 Fiat 500 "1957 Edition"


Fiat is unveiling a new special edition of the Fiat 500 at the LA Auto Show next week. Called the Fiat 500 “1957 Edition," the car celebrates the Nuova 500 model that premiered on July 4, 1957. It's a modern interpretation of the iconic model produced between 1957 and 1975.

Fiat 500 “1957 Edition” with Nuova Fiat 500

The new Fiat 500 “1957 Edition” is based on a Lounge model and available in three vintage looking colors - Bianco (white), Verde Chiaro (light green) or Celeste (celestial blue). The last two colors come with a Bianco painted roof and mirror caps for an authentic retro look.

Fiat 500 "1957 Edition" with Nuova 500

A new 16 inch wheel designed to resemble the steel wheels used on 1950 era Fiats sets off this special edition 500. These wheels made their first appearance on the Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser concept shown at last year's SEMA show and the Mopar concept car earlier this year at the Detroit auto show (sharp eyed Fiat fans will recognize the "1957 Edition" as looking nearly identical to the car on display at Detroit - see here).  A sport tuned suspension makes the 1957 Edition a nimble handler, just like the original.

Fiat 500 “1957 Edition" wheels

Inside is furnished in Marrone (brown) and Avorio (ivory) leather, which is lavished on the seats and hand stitched steering wheel. Grey door panels have Avorio inserts with Marrone armrests, and there is a six-speaker, 276-watt premium audio system with SiriusXM Radio. The interior and exterior are finished off with period correct Fiat badging.

Fiat 500 “1957 Edition” interior

Fiat Studios will be able to order the Fiat 500 "1957 Edition" early 2014 with deliveries beginning in Spring. Pricing is yet to be announced. We'll have that news for you as soon as it is available.


Fiat 500D 1968-72

The Nuova Fiat 500
In the mid-1950s, Italy was recovering from the devastation of World War II. The demand for low cost cars was expanding. Two seater micro cars/bubble cars were becoming popular. These typically sat 1-3 people and were arguably closer to a motorcycle than a car. Dante Giacosa, Fiat's legendary chief engineer was tasked with developing a new car that would have the economy of these micro-cars, yet have the space for four passengers and offer the drivability and security of a real car. The result was the Nuova 500 and its appearance came at a time when there was a new sense of prosperity in Italy and throughout Europe. The affordable and cheerful Fiat 500 gave families something to aspire for as it offered a taste of La Dolce Vita and became something more than just a car. Nearly 3.9 million Fiat 500s were sold between 1957 and 1975, and it would be fair to say that each one holds a special place in the heart of its owner.



Read more:

Monday, November 11, 2013

New Fiat 500 Abarth Wheel Available!

Fiat 500 Abarth Hyperblack Cast Aluminum Wheel

A new 16 inch alloy wheel option is available on 2014 Fiat 500 Abarths. The new Hyperblack Cast Aluminum Wheel first made its appearance on the 500 Abarth Tenebra concept car shown at the Detroit Auto Show this past January. The attractive 16 inch wheels are 6.5 inches wide and are shod with 195/45R16XL Pirelli P7 tires. This optional wheel is priced at $550.

16 inch Hyperblack alloy wheel shown on Abarth Tenebra


Fiat 500 Abarth Tenebra Concept Car

Read more:

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Fiat Shows Off The 500L at SEMA

Fiat 500L Adventurer

As is the yearly tradition, Fiat and Mopar have teamed up to put together some wild looking concept cars for display at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Nov. 5-8. These custom Fiat 500Ls show what you can do with some creativity, craftsmanship and Mopar accessories. This year the folks at Mopar, the parts and accessories division of Fiat-Chrysler, are highlighting the versatility of the four-door Fiat 500L with two concept cars.


The first is called the Fiat 500L Adventurer, a rugged go anywhere looking vehicle loaded with ideas and accessories that will get the creative juices flowing in any 500L owner's mind. The other is the Fiat 500L Thalassa, a fun in the sun surf vehicle that picks up on last years Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser concept car. Some of the ideas and design proposals shown at SEMA do make it into production and fans of last year's Beach Cruiser will be happy to know the wheels from that car are now available through the Fiat parts and accessories catalog.


The following is the official description of each Fiat concept car, courtesy of Chrysler Media, plus links to read about all the other Fiats shown at SEMA over the years.

Fiat 500L Adventurer by Mopar

Fiat 500L Adventurer

The Fiat 500L Adventurer illustrates the versatility of the new five-seater, with modifications that transform the vehicle and equip it with a tough, rugged appearance.

The exterior is enhanced with bright white body paint, two-tone accent wheel flares and rockers painted in Satin Black. Color is added with Vibrance Bright Orange on the roof, which totes Mopar roof rails and a large roof basket. The vehicle sits on 18 x 7.5-inch custom concept wheels embellished with FIAT logo center caps.

A custom 500L graphic augments door panels, with the L painted orange to match the roof. Orange mirror caps, tinted taillights, tinted chrome exhaust tips, molded splash guards, and a chrome FIAT logo ring further enhance the exterior styling.

2014 Fiat 500L Adventurer

The interior is upgraded with black perforated suede Katzkin seats and Katzkin pearl leather seatbacks. Matching orange accents are featured inside as well, with orange-painted bezels and orange accents surrounding the speaker grills and steering-wheel badge. The two-tone instrument panel is black with a white leather insert. A Mopar seat back coat hanger, all-weather mats, a pedal kit, door-sill guards and a cargo organizer are included from the Mopar catalog. A performance boost is achieved with a Mopar cold-air intake and Mopar cat-back exhaust.

Fiat 500L Thalassa

Fiat 500L Thalassa

If the Fiat 500L Adventurer represents the “turf” in the FIAT presence at SEMA, the “surf” is served up by the Fiat 500L Thalassa, a variation on the Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser that was shown at the 2012 SEMA Show.

Proving that what Mopar develops as a concept one year can become a production part the next, the Fiat 500L Thalassa features new 18 x 8-inch “Beach Cruiser” wheels — a production version of the steel wheel introduced on the Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser last year. The wheels, decorated with chrome ring accents, are painted to match the Vibrance Bright Orange body color and carry FIAT retro-badged center caps.

On top, Mopar roof rails support a long roof basket — perfect for transporting a surfboard to the beach. The roof is covered in bright white, as are the mirror caps. A lowered ride height and smoked lenses and trim provide an aggressive, sleek appearance.

2014 Fiat 500L Thalassa

Inside, Mopar installed a unique towel-drying rack to fit in the rear compartment, with a unique water-protecting cargo organizer that houses wetsuits and a water jug for an impromptu street shower. Another original feature is wetsuit material integrated into the seat construction, along with Katzkin charcoal leather bolsters paired with Alcantara leather and dual Katzkin white leather stripes that run down the center of the seats.

Fiat 500 Beach Cruiser Steel Wheel


Feeding off the Vibrance Bright Orange exterior, Katzkin orange accents further elevate the interior, including a Katzkin tangerine armrest, door panel inserts, dash bezel, and Katzkin tangerine stitching on the border of the front and rear seats, steering wheel and shifter boot. A classic FIAT badge on the steering wheel provides a retro touch. A pedal kit and sill guards complete the interior, with a Mopar cold-air intake and a Mopar cat-back exhaust enabling the beach vehicle to kick up a little more sand.

Mopar-Fiat “Mobile Garage"

Mopar-Fiat Mobil Garage

Using the ProMaster H2 (High Roof) as a starting point, the Ram ProMaster demonstrates its potential versatility as a mobile garage and a weekend race-support vehicle.

The exterior pledges its allegiance to Team Mopar, with white body paint dressed up with unique Mopar graphics, including the Mopar Performance logo in grey and a Mopar Blue stripe. The ProMaster leads the way to the racetrack, pulling a Fiat 500 race car and trailer with the assistance of a Mopar hitch receiver and trailer-tow wiring harness. Unique wheels transport the ProMaster, matching the paint and design of the race-car wheels. Heavy-duty splash guards at the front and rear protect the ProMaster, and a Mopar Design badge adds flair.

The spacious cargo compartment of the ProMaster carries critical elements needed to assist a racer during weekend battles at the strip or the circle track. PSE toolboxes, bins, spare tires and other vital race equipment fill the cargo area, which is customized with Mopar Blue accents to drive home the Mopar “rolling garage” interior theme. To brighten up the cargo compartment and help locate equipment, cargo-area lighting is utilized, and a rear-cargo liner helps protect the bed from wear and tear. The ProMaster is also upgraded with a power inverter, WiFi and the Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS).

Up front, the seats receive the Katzkin treatment, with frost leather on the main seat area, surrounded by Katzkin charcoal leather, and the Mopar Blue logo embroidered on the head rests. Mopar Blue stripes, like those on the exterior, accent the inside door sills.


Fiat Accessories by Mopar


Here are just some of the accessories that are available for your Fiat at your dealer. Whether you have a 500 hatch, Cabrio, Abarth or 500L, Mopar has you covered!

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Images and press release courtesy of Chrysler Media

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Fiat 500 Year End Sales Incentives Kick Off!

Fiat 500 on Autumn Road

If you have been looking at a Fiat 500, now is the time to buy. Aggressive model year closeout dealer incentives start today! This is breaking news and dealers are just now finding out the details as I write this, but expect fantastic lease, finance and purchase deals to be available. All 2013 Fiat 500, Cabrio and Abarth models are eligible as Fiat Studios have been given the order to clear the lots to get ready for the 2014 cars. If you have your eye on the four-door Fiat 500L, dealers also have incentives on those, too.

Now that the year is coming to an end, Fiat is pushing hard to finish off on a high note, so take advantage before the 2013s are all gone.

Make sure you give the Fiat Studios listed below a call to see what deals they have going on.

Contact the following Fiat Studios for more details:

Criswell FIAT of Gaithersburg, Maryland - 1-888-878-2488

FIAT of Austin, Texas - 1-877-908-3428

Palmen FIAT of Kenosha, Wisconsin - 1-888-379-0295

Benson FIAT, South Carolina - 1-888-380-1716

FIAT of Larchmont, New York - 1-888-405-2249


or go to the Fiat USA website here to find your nearest dealer.


Monday, November 4, 2013

First Alfa Romeo 4C 'Launch Edition' Cars Delivered

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition Deliveries

The first five Alfa Romeo 4C 'Launch Edition' cars were delivered to customers Thursday, October 31, at the Alfa Romeo Balocco test facility in Vercelli, Italy. The 'Launch Edition' is a limited run of the 4C supercars that come complete with a carbon fiber aerodynamic kit (including headlights, spoiler and door mirror covers), dark finished aluminium rear extractor, Bi-LED headlights and 18" (front) and 19" (rear) alloy wheels. Alfa Romeo 4C 'Launch Edition' cars are available in 'Alfa Red' or exclusive matt 'Carrara White' and have an engraved numbered plate noting the car is 1 of 500 made.



The five lucky customers, hailing from Switzerland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Italy, signed up for their 'Launch Edition' at the 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva on the day the order books were officially opened.

Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale

The ceremony was held at the former Autodelta workshops at Balocco, where every Alfa Romeo has been developed and tested since 1962. At the event was Louis Carlo Vignon, Head of Alfa Romeo Brand EMEA, and Alfa Romeo 4C Chief Designer Alessandro Maccolini. Owners were treated to fast laps in the car driven by Nicola Larini, a renowned German Touring Car Champion from the past. The five Alfa Romeo 4C 'Launch Edition' owners were given a close-up look at a 33 Stradale, a car often cited as being one of the most beautiful coupés of all times, and the inspiration of the new 4C.

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition in Alfa Red


As for potential North America owners of the Alfa 4C, they will have to wait until the middle of next year to get their hands on the car. Where these buyers will be purchasing their cars has been in question ever since Harald Wester, CEO at Alfa and Maserati, let slip in an email to Automotive News that the 4C will be sold at Maserati dealers in the US. There has been no confirmation from the company that Fiat Studios will also get a crack at selling the 4C, much to the consternation of US Fiat dealers.

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition rear view


Future plans for Alfa Romeo remain a closely guarded secret, but there is talk that Fiat will be investing a considerable amount of Euros into developing a rear wheel drive platform for the legendary marque so they can compete on equal terms with the German car makers. Sergio Marchionne has high hopes for Alfa Romeo sales, the last projection made in 2012 was 300,000 cars by 2014. With only the Giulietta, MiTo and 4C to sell, that surely will not happen, so we are expecting a revised sales goal to be set at the end of the next year's first quarter. If Alfa is to succeed in achieving the significant numbers Marchionne is envisioning, that will mean that many of Fiat's 210 dealers in the US will have to be onboard selling the marque. That should give Fiat dealers some hope while they wait for the official announcement.

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