The 500 has agile handling and a crisp-shifting manual transmission, all of which make the Fiat fun to drive. The 101-hp four-cylinder and five-speed manual returned 33 mpg overall, but require frequent downshifts to keep up on hills and with traffic. A stronger 135-hp turbo engine improves the experience, but the ride is choppy and the cabin noisy. Head room up front is good, but the cabin is narrow and the steering wheel is too far away for some. The rear seats are very tight and difficult to access. The convertible has a clever top. A high-performance Abarth turbo version is fun to drive and very capable. First year reliability is average but the 500 scores too low to recommend.
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