Share

Fiat debuts new 500 versions

  • New range-topping Cult model also unveiled
  • Innovative TFT digital instruments
  • New colours, seats, upholsteries and alloy wheels

Chrysler is unveiling the new Fiat 500 range at the 2014 Geneva auto show.  The car has been enhanced with new styling and technological features, says the automaker, with a new 18cm digital instrument display being a key feature.

Image gallery: 2014 Fiat 500

There’s a new 900cc TwinAir turbo engine which employs a high-efficiency turbocharger, an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, a stop/start fuel-saving system and the new MultiAir II intake valve control system to provide an even more enticing combination of power and efficiency.

It’s mated to a six six-speed manual gearbox and makes 78kW at 5500rpm and 145Nm at 2000rpm in Sport mode with a top speed of 190km/h while using a claimed 4.2 litres/100km, and 99g/km of CO2 emissions.

CULT FOR SA

The automaker says it will also be adding the Cult version to the range which builds on the  specification of the Lounge version – 15” alloys, a fixed glass sunroof, Blue&Meconnectivity, a leather steering wheel with remote controls and air conditioning.

However, Fiat South Africa said:  “We are looking at a market intro during September for the 2014 MY Fiat 500 and we are considering the Cult model if the exchange rate plays along, but for now we don’t have definite timing.

“We are intending to keep the range pretty much as is currently, and just include the updates and the odd spec change here and there.”

The new display monitor, developed in collaboration with Magnetti Marelli, brings together all the information required for controlling the car and its functions without disrupting the retro aesthetics of the cabin.

REAL-TIME TRAFFIC

The centre of the display – which contains a digital image of the car – can be configured to show various trip computer readouts, such as distance travelled, instant fuel consumption, range, etc. The new instruments also allow for more prominent warning messages - such as open doors, low fuel and a more visible gear shift indicator.

The 18cm screen can also display media player and telephone information and, when fitted with a TomTom satnav system, navigation information also appears in the display, including junction graphics and real-time traffic updates.

Across the wider 2014 Fiat 500 range, two new body colours will be available – a retro green and new three-layer white – while the S model will be offered in blue. New alloy wheels, seat fabrics and leather upholsteries complete the revisions.

The 2014Fiat 500 is due to go on sale in the UK by the end of April with pricing to be announced closer to the car’s launch.

Stay with Wheels24 for the 2014 Geneva auto show.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE