Fiat 500

FIAT 500 FOR 2012

BY BRUCE HUBBARD - DETROIT

BRADLEY HUBBARD –PHILADELPHIA

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP

Italian architecture, art and design have defined style for centuries. Italian automobiles  are legends. Italian cars like  Lamborghini to Fiat to Alfa Romeo,  cars have been at the head of the pack in many respects for decades. With exciting style so many poster cars have been designed by Italian design firms including ItalDesign which created the designs for so many Italian vehicles as well as BMW M1 and the VW Golf. Champions of race including Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Masserati and Fiat are owned by Fiat. So is the respected builder and design arm known as Abarth.

Lamborghini, another respected Italian car manufacturer, is a subsidiary of Volkswagen. Alfa Romeo automobiles are noted for their blend of classic design and sporty details. Ferrari was founded by a former driver for Alfa Romeo's racing team. Lancia is a pioneering brand with more world rally championships than any other manufacturer. Lancia was the first company to put an electrical system in a car, and was also the first company to introduce standard production V-6 engines. Maserati is the only Italian company to produce a car that won an Indy 500 race.

FIAT as we all know now owns a large piece of Chrysler Group. Fiat has been around for over a 100 years.  FIAT or Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino  motor company which was founded as a company after acquiring other major Italian automotive brands on July 11, 1899.

Another Italian automotive bit of history is the  fact  that it took the first engineer, the famous Leonardo da Vinci, to think in concrete terms of an idea similar to the modern transportation we call an automobile. It was more than 500 years ago, however -- sometime around the year 1478 to be more or less specific -- when Leonardo drew out his plans for the world's first self-propelled vehicle.

Unlike Henry Ford's Model T in the early 1900s, Leonardo's car wasn't designed for mass-production. It wasn't truly a passenger car, since it didn't even have a seat. The vehicle was actually designed as a special attraction for Renaissance festivals, meant to instill wonder and awe in attendees.  Leonardo's car worked, but the Renaissance man was centuries ahead with yet another influential invention.

Eugenio Barsanti (1821-1864), an Italian scientist, developed in the early 50s of the 19th century his atmospheric engine. It used a "Voltaic (from Volta) pistol" as ignition mechanism. A spark skipping between two electrodes ignited the gas mixture.The Italian’s also developed a single cylinder gas engine far before Henry Ford ever used one in the Model T.

My first experience with Fiat  motor cars  was in 1962 when I was given a 1200 Fiat convertible. My family won a Fiat convertible 1200 model. They had no one else to give it to so as a young man I was delighted to get the gift.  The power was not much then with only 58 horsepower.  The straight four cylinder,1222 cc engine  from Fiat then would wind out in the gears but was under powered.

That is why I decided  to upgrade with Abarth accessories including their famous muffler systems (used on Ferrari’s for years). After I got though with upgrades from Abarth the vehicle was a mover and shaker. Still not an Alfa Romeo but still a Pininfarina design.  I enjoyed that car  and expect to enjoy the 500 Fiat Sport and without a doubt  the 2012 Abarth versions. In 2007, the Fiat Group re-launched Abarth & C SpA, complete with new, purpose-built premises at the Mirafiori complex in Turin, known as Officine 83. The new company's first achievements included the rally-prepared Grande Punto Abarth S2000 which won the inaugural Intercontinental Rally Challenge and two new road-going models - the Grande Punto Abarth and the new 500 Abarth.

The 2010 LA Auto Show was the venue for Fiat to introduce to the media the new 500.  They are hoping to make a success of the Fiat 500 “Cinquecento”  just like BMW did with the Mini and VW did with the Beetle.

“Capturing the original Cinquecento’s iconic looks and smart packaging in a contemporary, no-nonsense design, the new 2012 Fiat 500 is artfully blended with technical, cultural and creative aspects in a vehicle that is exactly right for the times,” said Roberto Giolito, Head of Fiat Style.

Now I see the smart people at Fiat/Chrysler doing the same thing. They will offer a base model but many customers will insist upon the Mopar (or Abarth ) upgrades.

The base model is ideal for Bradenton Florida or other Florida park communities. But, the 500 can be made into a mini fighter if accessories are added. Mopar and the “500 madness site” offer amazing upgrades already.

Four-cylinder engine options are being expanded at Chrysler Group with the introduction of Fiat Powertrain's 1.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder Fully Integrated Robotized Engine (FIRE) featuring Multiair. In the early 1970s, the use of robotics in assembly plants was not common. The term “FIRE” came into existence when Fiat integrated the use of robotics in the production process of manufacturing plants. Although mechanized assembly is common today, the brand name FIRE has remained with Fiat’s powertrain lineup.

The base models that include the base POP, the LOUNGE and the upgraded SPORT which all have the 101-hp, 1.4-liter four-cylinder with 97 lb-ft of torque for a price of nearly $16,000.00. The  four-cylinder is assembled in Dundee, Michigan, and utilizes variable valve timing and lift to achieve a best of 29 mpg city and 37 highway when equipped with the manual transmission.  For Chrysler to get out of bankruptcy and receive US dollars part of the deal with Fiat is that the Dundee, Michigan Chrysler facility would be operational. Works well for all parties concerned  since the engines will be shipped world wide.  Jobs for workers in Michigan and production at a reduced cost at the factory. The 500 is being assembled in Toluca, Mexico, in the factory that used to assemble the Chrysler’s PT Cruiser.

A specially engineered suspension delivers tailored performance for the U.S. market. A redesigned twist-beam rear suspension features retuned bushings with more built-in roll stiffness, delivering ride comfort and handling suited for American drivers. Revised front-suspension geometry reduces dive during braking and features an increased front-stabilizer bar rate for reduced body roll and added driver confidence. In addition, retuned twin-tube shock absorbers and springs, all-new structural sub-frame brace, upgraded upper-strut mounts and retuned control-arm bushings make the U.S. market Fiat 500 as nimble as its European cousin while delivering a more comfortable and quiet interior cabin.

Chrysler Group states for Italian style, efficiency and personalization options, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Pop base model includes a manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels with chrome-accented wheel covers and all-season tires, seven standard air bags, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input, power windows, power door locks, power heated mirrors, speed control and reconfigurable Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and tire-pressure monitoring display (TPM).

The version I would buy from the first models offered would be the 500 Sport, but it’s not any more powerful than the other 500 models.  The 500 Sport comes from the firmer suspension modified springs, shock tuning, steering calibration and exhaust tuning to deliver a more firm ride and responsive handling. It also is upgraded from the Pop with 16-inch aluminum wheels, red brake calipers, unique front and rear fascias, a Bose audio system, and Bluetooth. Options available among the various trim levels include heated seats, a removable navigation system by Tom Tom, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, an $850 power sunroof, and the automatic transmission for $1000.


The Sport model also includes a manual transmission and (in addition to the Fiat 500 Pop features) distinctively styled front and rear fascias with larger ‘honeycomb’ grilles and flared aerodynamic treatment.

Between its unique 16-inch aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray painted pockets and all-season tires, the Fiat 500 Sport incorporates new bodyside sill cladding and a liftgate-mounted roof spoiler for a sporty appearance. Inside, the new Fiat 500 Sport features unique sport-styled seating in a Gray/Black interior environment., a BOSE^® Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication technology with USB port, eco:Drive™ Application and iPod control capability.

Fiat states that he $20,000 Fiat 500 Lounge is tailored to those who  who want their Fiat 500 to reflect their fashion-oriented lifestyles. The Lounge has the all-new six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes, front- and rear-fascia chromed accents, chrome mirror caps, fog lamps, fixed glass roof, 15-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires, premium cloth seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, BOSE^® Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer, security alarm, BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology with USB port, eco:Drive Application and iPod control capability.

The new Fiat 500 features standard electronic stability control (ESC) for improved braking performance in wet or panic conditions.

The  ESC system is ready to intervene by integrating key chassis control systems including electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), anti-lock brake system (ABS) and traction control systems (TCS) to control all four wheels in response to yaw and steering input.

No real Fiat 500 enthusiast  will ask for less than the Abarth conversion. If you had been at the Biltmore Estate in Ashville in July you would have seen the Prima Edizione (first edition) Fiat 500. A special edition limited to 500 units. Sold out immediately to the Fiat aficionados.  This was the closest thing to what Chrysler/Fiat will be bringing out later with Abarth. To learn more Google Fiat Abarth.

Abarth  (owned for years by FIAT) will deliver to Fiat in the first quarter of 2012 the explosive and fun to drive Abarth version.  That model  will probably compete with other small cars with power like the Mazda2  and certainly the Mini.

Sure, some journalist say the Fiat 500 offers a  great base model. Sure in certain areas but the truth is to match Mini they better get the Abarth in now. Fiat knows that. Just look at my photos t the Detroit or as called now the  North American International Auto Show.

The “Cinquecento” 500  is about 80 pounds, or about 36 kilos, heavier than versions sold elsewhere in the world. The North American 500's new four-wheel antilock brakes have redesigned front calipers. In addition  organic brake linings and a new anti-corrosion coating for the rotors. The electronic stability control has been revised for our market's all-season tires, and our fuel tank has been enlarged to 10.5 gallons, for longer driving range.

The 500 Sport version I prefer. It has a better suspension including larger bushings stiffer suspension. On the highway at 70 mph plus the ride is excellent.  The back roads and mountain passes with their switchbacks let the 500 show off its  “go cart” handing. The 90 inch wheel base and weight of approximately 2500 pounds the  base 500 drives very well   I would want to wait for my Fiat 500. That would be for the  Fiat performance model that the Abarth  division will bring to North America. Chrysler knows they must even bring over a better version of the Europen Abarth model. They have decided on  the Alfa Romeo MITo  Quadrigogio Verde that delivers 170 horse with 170 foot pounds of torque.  Torque comes on at 3000 rpm while the 170 horsepower comes in at 6750 rpm. Don’t expect to see the new 6 speed automatic that will be available in Europe come to the US immediately.

Now that Daimler has taken over distributorship of the USA for the Smart Car I see the real winners will be Mini and Fiat.  Penske could not get people to buy the Smart car and decided to take his losses.

Fiat as well as Mini have had experience in selling their vehicles in Europe. The larger Mini with so many years of experience in the North American market are still king.  With their many models and with the options they have and will continue to be a winner. The pricing is more than the 500 base Pop or Sport version. The front wheel drive Fiat 500 buyers are expected to decide what configurations and extras will be added from their customizing “on line.” The buyers could buy the Toyota Yaris or the new Scion for less than a well equipped base 500 saving perhaps $1000.00 but those at Fiat including Laura Soave feels buyers will prefer a customized Fiat 500.  Time will tell.

The Chrysler’s Mopar division already with Fiat have a great product and accessory guide for those that want to build their Fiat 500. Look at the wheels and tires, interior of one I photographed at the North American International Auto show.  They did what all the young market would demand. In addition Fiat has come out with clothing and other accessories for the Fiat lover.

I remember being in Daytona’ Tuner where young drivers had their Honda’s, Mazda’s,  Scion’s, Mini’s all tricked out.  Every car had to be customized. I can surely see Mopar and Abarth models of the 500 selling to the youth market and even older enthusiasts.  As stated previously the 500 Aftermarket customizers are ready to bring the Italian 500 into a fight with the Mini.

The way gas prices are going the first Fiat 500’s should sell well. The first models available in North America will be the coupe. Soon after a convertible . Within a year the powerful Abarth model  and even later an electric model Fiat states. We also have seen spy shots of  an All Wheel Drive Model.  The future depends on the American  buyers falling in love with the Fiat 500. VW did it with the Beetle. Mini and BMW are the winners now and they certainly will continue to produce only better Mini Brand vehicles.  I believe that Fiat/ Chrysler will spend a lot of money to promote the 500 and that should bring in customers.

The marketing of the new 500 is the job of a suburban Detroit women. Laura Soave has had marketing experience at VW and and Ford. Marchionne hired her  to handle the marketing world wide. She speaks fluent Italian which surely will be valuable in her job.   She states she actually saw the 500 as a young child in Italy.  Now she is in charge of that petite and cute vehicle she saw with her parents so many years ago.

According to the PR department Rick Deneau and Laura Soave state that all 2012 Fiat 500 models will come with a standard four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and four years of unlimited roadside assistance. Following VW and others the Fiat 500 includes a three-year/36,000-mile maintenance program that includes wear-and-tear items and trip-interruption reimbursement.

The Fiat 500  history is  long. The first Fiat 500 named a Topolino (meaning mouse) was one of the smallest cars in the world at the time of its production. Launched in 1937, three models were produced until 1955. all with minor mechanical and cosmetic changes.

Fiat as the Chrysler Group are doing everything they can to continue the 500’s history with a retro with all the bells and whistles demanded in this competitive market. The car since first introduced  was very attractive and cute. Cute as a bug. Journalist have been raving as to the potential of the Mini fighter. The 500 was first brought back to Europe in 2007 and now with US updates to meet federal regulations this wonderful vehicle has arrived and is being sold in the USA and Canada.

Quality in my first Fiat was good. Many have stated over the years that quality was not what it was in Alfa or Lancia luxury models.  Today quality in all Fiat, Lancia, Alfa is exceptional.

The Chrysler Group and Fiat have proven that the USA Chrysler Group and Fiat can together manufacture superb vehicles. In the USA engineers from the Chrysler Group have turned the European version of the Fiat 500 into an exceptional vehicle for North America.  The team of over 100 engineers gave 100% to Fiat to make the Fiat 500 not just fun to drive but safe for all the roads. One of the best US Engineers stated  to me “Lot's of Italian transplants from the original 500 team relocated to the US, including Fabio Dimuro, the original MR (Model responsible) for the F500 European model. The teamwork was awesome, the two teams gelled very quickly!”

I expect that the Chrysler Group and Fiat will keep that Italian Icon  in the limelight for years to come. The recent Geneva auto show shows even more amazing vehicles that the Chrysler Group and Fiat including Alfa Romeo, Lancia will bring to the market soon. The show also gave Europe the first badged Flavia for Lancia. The vehicle is the Chrysler 200. So just as I thought the Chrysler/Fiat group will share vehicle platforms in the world market.