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'Freshed Fiat 500: New Italian job for SA

TURIN, Italy - Fiat has revealed its updated 500 global best-seller complete with new exterior and interior design and including, it says, "1800 innovative details".

According to Fiat: "It has not grown in size but it is packed with more technology, engine versions and customising ideas. Only in this way can the icon further evolve and refine the features which have turned it into a masterpiece."

The "new" 500 is expected to arrive in South Africa in early 2016 and Wheels24 will bring you the details closer to its South African launch.

ITALIAN DESIGN

The New 500 will be available as a hatch or convertible and in three trim levels - Pop, Popstar and Lounge. Standard kit includes seven crash bags, Uconnect Radio 5" with six speakers, USB and auxiliary connectivity and steering-wheel controls.

IMAGE GALLERY: 2015 Fiat 500

VIDEO: 2015 Fiat 500 in action

The Popstar version adds chromed external mirrors, vintage-styled steel rims and enhanced aircon. The top-of-the-range Lounge adds a sunroof, 15" alloy rims, chromed grille, Uconnect Radio witha  touchscreen and leather-wrapped steering-wheel.

The new Uconnect Live services, available for the first time in the new 500, allows either Android or Apple smartphones to display applications from your phone on the screen.

ENGINES

Engine options will come from the outgoing model though with tweaks to improve emissions and reduce fuel-consumption.

The 900cc Twinair petrol has been tuned for two power outputs, 62 or 78kW. The 70kW 1.3 Multijet diesel produces 89g/km and the 50kW 1.2 non-turbo petrol has a CO2 emissions rating of 99g/km.

The suspension has been revised to improve comfort and handling.

1800 INNOVATIVE DETAILS?

The new 500 sports new bumpers, revised air dams, 500X-inspired diode headlilghts, chromed grille with a new design, LED tail lights and new 15" and 16" alloy rim designs.

The cabin has a new steering-wheel with chromed trim, new upholstery (available in nine colours) and a new stowage compartment. Fiat also confirms added soundproofing throughout.

The updates apply to hatch and convertibles.

Fiat said: "Audacious and seductive, the New 500 has 1800 innovative details, each to enhance originality and make its style even more refined."

A range of accessories is also available, among them vintage-style wheels, chromed roof trim, spoiler, chromed external mirrors and a tail door rack.

500 GOES UNDER THE KNIFE: The new 500 sports exterior enhancements and its interior is spruced up with additional trim, smoother leather and updated tech. Image: Fiat

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