NEW FOR 2015:
-New optional automatic transmission for 500 Turbo models
-Available customizable gauge cluster display
-Bluetooth streaming audio, redesigned centre console with an additional USB port
-Available “Beats” audio system
It’s another year of running changes for the tiny Fiat 500. The only mechanical change is a new automatic transmission option for Turbo models. The other updates are minor, but functional: an available customizable gauge cluster display like that used in a variety of other vehicles sold by Fiat’s parent company, Chrysler. Bluetooth streaming audio is new, along with an extra USB port and an available “Beats” by Dr. Dre stereo.
The rest of the 500 stays the same: the base engine is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder making 101 hp and 98 lb-ft of torque, while the aforementioned 500 Turbo uses a turbocharged version of that motor, rated at 135 hp and 150 lb-ft. Transmission choices with both engines are a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
Trim levels are Pop, Sport, Lounge and Turbo.
Pop trim comes with a six-speaker stereo with auxiliary input, 12-volt power outlet, body-colour instrument panel bezels, cloth seats, front seats with memory return, electronic vehicle information centre, power windows with one-touch-down, power locks, rear cargo shelf panel, manual driver’s seat height adjustment, USB charging port in console, 50/50 split folding rear seat, tilt steering, four cupholders, 15-inch steel wheels, halogen projector headlights, body-colour fascia and side mirror housings, heated side mirrors, seven airbags, wide angle driver’s side mirror, engine block heater, keyless entry, antitheft engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitor display and a tire service kit.
Sport trim adds a seven-inch customizable gauge cluster display, 16-inch aluminum wheels, air conditioning, Bluetooth handsfree communication with streaming audio, chrome shift knob, fog lights, leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, media hub with USB and auxiliary input, passenger assist handle and armrest, red brake calipers, rear spoiler, side sill ground effects, unique front and rear fascia, security alarm, sport cloth seats and sport suspension.
Lounge models get 15-inch tech silver aluminum wheels, automatic climate control, premium sound system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, body-colour fascia with bright insert, bright belt moulding and chrome side mirror housings, heated leather-faced seats, panoramic sunroof, and satellite radio.
Finally, Turbo trim uses the turbocharged engine, 16-inch polished aluminum wheels, more aggressive sill ground effects, gloss black headlight, taillight and parking light treatments, leather-trimmed sport steering wheel and shift knob with silver-stitched accents, performance brakes, sport-styled seat with silver stitching, sport-tuned single exhaust and a unique front fascia.
