Fiat 500C Abarth: 2010 Geneva Auto Show

TURIN, Italy — Fiat's Abarth brand will display performance editions of the 500C and the Punto Evo at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show.

Abarth has kitted out the 500C in a choice of two-tone exterior paint schemes, loud graphics and 17-inch diamond-finish alloy wheels.

Under the hood is an Abarth-tuned 1.4-liter four-cylinder Turbo T-Jet gas engine that makes 140 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a six-speed Abarth Competizione automated manual gearbox with paddle shifters, the engine provides 0-60-mph acceleration in less than 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 127 mph, while returning impressive average fuel economy of 36 mpg in the European combined driving cycle....More

2011 Fiat 500 Chicago Auto Show

2011 FIAT 500: As part of Chrysler Group’s recovery plans in the United States, the 2011 Fiat 500 will be sold by its dealers later this year. The subcompact will be the first of several Fiat products to be sold here. The new 500 will be modified for this market, built in Mexico with 1.4 liter 4-cylinder engines built in Michigan.

The original 500, popular in Europe after World War II, was a rear engine car. This time around the 500 gets front engine and can, more or less, be compared to the Mini in configuration and size. Shown at the Chicago Auto Show will be a two-door hatchback.

Future plans may expand the range to include a convertible and other models possible. Early offerings are expected to have a 97-hp output and a 6-speed manual transmission. As we near introduction time, specs will be finalized.