AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2011 FIAT 500

On The Cover Review: 2011 Fiat 500

Watch out, Mini Cooper—the Fiat 500 is sneaking up behind you!  Apparently, America needs more than one upscale, pint-sized, European economy car, because Chrysler’s new parent company Fiat is bringing the popular little Italian to our shores for 2011.  Looking like a DOTS gumdrop, the hyper-cute commuter will be powered by a 135-hp, turbocharged 1.4-liter four.  When Chrysler dealers were treated to a sneak peek of the Fiat 500, reaction was mostly positive.  No, the Fiat 500 is probably not going to be the thing that rights Chrysler’s financial woes, but it doesn’t hurt the company image.  It’s appealing in its own unique way, it doesn’t use much fuel, and people can’t help but draw comparisons to the popular, BMW-made Mini.  And like the Mini, the 500 is expected to come in more than one fun flavor—in this case the initial two-door hatchback and later a convertible version.  As cars continue to become more and more adorable, expect to see a spike in pet baby seals, newborn babies, and Hello Kitty.