Fiat welcomes a new 500 into the range. New for 2013, the Fiat 500 Turbo slots in nicely right in between the standard 500 and the 500 Abarth.
The "Goldilocks" of the range, the new turbocharged Cinquecento comes equipped with a boosted version of the standard 1.4 liter MultiAir to produce a healthier output of 135-hp and 150 lb.-ft. of torque, translating to a 34-hp and 52 lb.-ft. improvement respectively. The 500 Turbo will only receive the lone choice of a five-speed manual, at least during its initial release.
In order to strengthen the car for the bump in power, the 500 Turbo will receive slightly larger half shafts as well as stronger constant velocity joints, which Fiat says will aid to minimize torque steer.
Further upgrading the 500 package to match the new powerplant, Fiat will also provide a performance braking system with larger front rotors, a sport-tuned suspension, and a throatier exhaust for some extra excitement.
Setting itself apart for its pedestrian version, the 500 Turbo will receive an unique front fascia that's 2.7 inches longer to make room for the turbocharger, larger lower air inlets to feed to the intercoolers, and Gloss Black headlamps for a more purposeful exterior. Tying the composition, the rear end features a lift-gate mounted spoiler, Gloss Black taillamps, as well as a blacked-out rear diffuser. Finally, each corner will be equipped with 16-inch aluminum wheels with Nero black accents.
Inside, the 500 Turbo gets sport-seating, leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel with contrast silver stitching and a gray and black interior layout.
Beyond extra power, performance upgrades, stylized exterior, and a higher rated cabin, the 500 Turbo tops it all off with premium Beats by Dre audio system that boast a six-speaker set up with an 8-inch dual-voice coil subwoofer in a trunk mounted enclosure and an eight-channel 368-watt amplifier with a Beats Audio digital sound processing algorithm. Of course, you have to play funky beats while dicing up the city streets!
Look out for the 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo to debut in showrooms this fall with a starting price at $20,000.
