FIAT’S retro-inspired 500 has raised the stakes with the introduction of the country’s most affordable cabriolet. The Fiat 500c 1.2 undercuts the competition with a price tag of about N$175 000.
Despite its affordability it remains surprisingly practical, reassuringly safe and alluringly exclusive. Powered by a 1.2 Euro 4-compliant motor, it develops 51 kW at 5 500rpm and produces 102 Nm of torque at 3 000rpm.
Fiat has emerged as a leader in green manufacturing and the Fiat 500c 1.2 further reaffirms that position with its low CO² emissions. Producing just 119g/km it attracts no Environmental Levy Taxes while its frugal fuel consumption makes it the perfect choice for zipping about town. Navigating through city traffic is a cinch for the little runabout with an average fuel consumption of just 6.4l/100km. On the open road the figures drop even further with an average fuel consumption of only 4.3l/100km.
Designed to respect the most stringent standards, the Fiat 500c is one of the safest cars in its entire segment. All models, including the newly introduced 1.2 Cabriolet, come standard with seven airbags (two at the front, two curtain-bags, two sidebags and one to protect the knees) – unheard of for this vehicle class. The Fiat 500 also adopts sophisticated technical solutions to guarantee that the driver is in complete control of the car at all times including ABS complete with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution).
Despite its attainable status, SA’s newest Cabriolet is well equipped with a host of comfort and convenience features. Power steering, remote central locking, power windows, airconditioning, daytime running lights and “Follow me home” headlights are just some of the standard features on offer. It also boasts a radio/ CD with MP3 player and Fiat’s acclaimed Blue&Me handsfree system, which features Bluetooth technology, voice recognition, steering-wheel mounted controls and a digital audio file player with USB port.
And it doesn’t end there. With stylish 15 inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior door handles, body colour mirrors with electronic adjustment, defrosting function and exterior temperature sensors the 500c 1.2 looks the part too. Another standout feature of the Cabriolet is its exceptional climate and acoustic comfort. Thorough aerodynamic research open-air turbulence has been reduced to a minimum, allowing full enjoyment of the fresh air and the company of fellow passengers. Even rear passengers have received special attention, as proven by an air-flow speed of 7 m/s with the roof open. In addition, when the soft top is down, the spoiler is arranged so that the third brake light can always be seen. The double-layered roof fabric ensures the best possible insulation from the outside and, along with the internal coverings of the pillars, completes a superb finish for the mechanisms controlling the opening and closing of the roof. The automatic electric soft top can be controlled either by buttons near the interior ceiling light or from a remote control. In addition, the soft top can be operated throughout its horizontal travel (as far as the spoiler) at any speed. Vertical movement can be engaged at any speed under 60 km/h.
In addition as per the other models in the Fiat 500 range, there are a number of options available to customise the 500c 1.2 into the model that reflects your personality.
