While the new Fiat is cool on the outside, it's totally wild on the inside!

I am impressed by its great handling, hip appearance, and its small -- but spacious interior. The 500 and 500C have a definite European look while still fitting in perfectly to the American market -- and that is no easy task.

So, right away, you know it's not a Chrysler, though related . . ..

The colors matched extremely well and the olive green paint shimmered in the daylight, creating much attention in parking lots and questions about the 500C. I had to add a few minutes everywhere I went in order to answer questions about everything from how it handled to gas mileage. The interior colors were also well paired with the addition of a rusty red on the door panels and arm rests and a black dash.

Dropping the roof transforms the little Fiat completely. Very, very nice!

There are, however, a few dislikes that are worth mentioning: Tthe key ignition position is strangely tight and awkward. So awkward in fact I found it a surprisingly large mistake on the part of the design team.

An interesting angle, but we wish the photographer had walked around the car!

There is also a large blind spot, but that is consistent with all convertible cars, however, Fiat does somewhat remedy that problem by adding a second mirror to the driver side mirror for increased visibility. They could not, however, remedy the problem of visibility directly behind you when the top was fully down. It blocked the view somewhat when looking in the rear view mirror. These issues are ones that once you get used to them are really not a problem at all.

A major plus for the 500 is the impressive handling. It's plenty fast with ample control and solid braking. While testing, I drove over some speed bumps at exactly 35 mph (not something I would ever recommend) and I did not bounce or fly in the air and had absolute control the entire time. I cannot remember another car in recent history that has done the same at that speed.  Given its size, it is good on gas and perfect for parking in a small space. For whatever reason, I felt I was driving in a larger car than I in fact was.

I really love the cloth-roofed convertible. The one-push button open and one for closing could not be easier, and either can be done while driving (not recommended over 45 mph). The quick opening convertible part of the roof runs the entire length of the car and yet with a full open roof there is not a tremendous amount of wind or noise added to the driving experience.  The fit was very tight when it was closed.

The stereo system was Bose and had a wonderfully clear sound. The road noise was surprisingly minimal and with the convertible top down you could still have a conversation without yelling, or listen to the radio without blasting it. Again, another impressive feat tackled.

The trunk space was small (5.4 cubic feet) and there was just no way of getting around that due to the size of the car. It did, however, fit six paper grocery bags, two gallons of water and a package of TP. The opening is short and no large luggage will fit. However, there is a large backseat for more storage if there are only two or three in the car. The back seat was in fact surprising. I am tall with a large frame and I was able to sit in back. A bit twisted with a large person in the front seat, but still be able to take trips for an hour or less in transit.

This car is fun, gets looks, it's hip and fast in addition to having plenty of power and stopping ability. The Fiat 500 and 500C are economically efficient, good looking competitors for the small car market.

Fiat is back and it looks and feels so good!

FIAT SPECS – 500C:

Wheelbase:  90.6 inches

Overall Length:  136.6 inches

Fuel Tank: 10.5 gallons

Engine: Inline 1.4-liter, 16-valve SOHC Multi-air

Transmission: Aisin 6-speed automatic with overdrive

EPA Fuel Estimates: 27 mpg/city & 32 mpg/highway

Brakes: 4-wheel anti-lock

Price as tested: $25,025