2019 Fiat 500c
<p>The 500c convertible was the second model to join Fiat's growing U.S. lineup, preceded by the <a href="www.leftlanenews.com/new-car-buying/fiat/500/">500 hardtop</a> and followed by <a href="http://www.leftlanenews.com/new-car-buying/fiat/500-abarth/">500 Abarth</a>.</p><p><strong>Overview</strong></p><p>Essentially the same quasi-convertible model that has been on sale in Europe for the last couple of years, the 500c features a power-sliding cloth roof that opens up the cabin to sun and fresh air. Opening it couldn't be easier: simply push a button on the dashboard.</p><p>The 500c is powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 135 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 150 pound-feet of torque between 2,400 and 4,200 rpm. Front-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission come standard, and a six-speed automatic is available at an extra cost. </p><p>Fuel economy checks in at 28 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg in a mixed cycle with the manual transmission. Going automatic lowers mileage to 24, 32, and 27, respectively.</p><p><strong>What's different compared to the hatchback?</strong></p><p>While one might assume that the only real changes from the fixed-roof Fiat 500 would come in the form of a sliced off roof and some added reinforcement for roll-over protection, there's more to it than that. </p><p>For starters, the Fiat 500c has a slightly longer windshield than the hatchback and is designed to provide passengers with a maximized outward view. As you would imagine, the design is also intended to conceal the reinforced upper-cross member which Fiat says is intended to help retain spirited driving dynamics.</p><p>Even from the side the profile is a bit different as the Fiat 500c's pillars stand out more, and of course the soft top is a bit more slender than the hatchback version. Changes continue to the rear of the 500c, as a roof-mounted and color-matched spoiler is added to improves aerodynamics, and also integrates the center high-mounted stop lamp.</p><p><strong>Trim level breakdown</strong></p><p>The 500c comes in two trim levels named Pop and Lounge, respectively. </p><p>The 500c Pop is the entry-level model and comes with a manual transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, seven standard air bags, air conditioning, CD/MP3-compatible radio with auxiliary audio input, chromed exhaust tip, power windows, power door locks, power heated mirrors, speed control, Bluetooth with USB port and eco:Drive. Other features include iPod control capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, configurable Electronic Vehicle Information Center with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and a tire-pressure monitoring display.</p><p>The 500c Lounge takes the basis formed by the Pop, and adds front- and rear-fascia chromed accents, chromed mirror caps, fog lamps, 15-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires, premium cloth seats, Sirius satellite radio, automatic climate control, and Bose Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer and a security alarm. A 7.0-inch HD TFT display is newly standard for the latest model year. </p><p><strong>Occupant safety</strong></p><p>Standard safety items include dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to a driver's knee airbag and traction and stability control systems.</p><p><strong>Key competitors</strong></p><p>Open-air rivals to the 500c include the convertible version of the Mini Hardtop. Those willing to pay a bit more can opt for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which doesn't offer the practicality of rear seats but features incredibly pure rear-wheel-drive handling.</p>