The 2015 Fiat 500 is the perfect option if you’re looking save money but don’t want to sacrifice style and a fun, eye- catching design.
The 500 is built with the fuel-conscious commuter in mind. Even better, the 2015 model has improved its few weak points, including an improved display and the addition of innovative features such as Eco:DRIVE.
The 500 is perfect for those who want to get to their destination efficiently and do not need to lug around anything (or anyone) else. Those seeking a practical, stylish car that won’t break the bank would appreciate what the Fiat 500 has to offer.
While the passenger seat can fit another adult comfortably and with sufficient head room even for taller passengers, the back rows are just as tight as you’d expect from a car this size.
However, this is only a slight inconvenience for most when considering the great mileage the 500 puts out. At an impressive 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway for the standard model, you might be inclined to tell your passengers to squeeze.
You can tell a lot about the Fiat 500 just by looking at its exterior. It’s just about as roomy as it looks but it is also just as fun to drive as it looks. Driving in the 500 is like zipping around town a fun and fast go-kart giving it a very sporty feel. Under the hood, Fiat has fitted the 500 with a 1.4 liter 4 cylinder engine which is capable of 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. The MultiAir technology used in this engine varies the intake valve timing and lift. The 500 also is very responsive, with precise steering and strong breaks that can stop on a dime, making the perfect vehicle for urban environments (not to mention, how easy parallel parking is).
Fiat seems to be setting the standard when it comes to affordable cars. With an MSRP starting at $16,845 and offering a variety of colors, trims and levels, Fiat shows that an inexpensive car, doesn’t have to be limiting.
Even on the interior, Fiat manages fit in great features you wouldn’t expect from an affordable car. These features include a Beats by Dre sound system, audio streaming via Bluetooth, digital display, and a new, very smart feature, Eco:DRIVE. With the Eco:DRIVE capability you can upload information about your car, such as CO2 emissions and trip information, onto a flash drive that can in turn, be used to help you be a more efficient driver.
The 2015 Fiat 500 takes the 1957 original to new heights. While not an option for those who frequently commute with more than one passenger, this vehicle is perfect for those who want to get to their destination in the most efficient way possible with a relatively comfortable and responsive ride. For the price, the 500’s standard features and what you save on gas, this tiny compact car is worth considering when looking for an affordable car.
This column is by Grant Miller, publisher of Miami’s Community Newspapers. He can be reached at 305-669-7355, ext. 216, or via email at grant@communitynewspapers.com.
