Fiat 500
New model launches don’t come much bigger than this – 7,000 invited guests will be present at this week’s debut for the car, and every one is fighting to get a chance to drive the machine that’s described as the most important Italian vehicle ever introduced. This is symbolic not only of Fiat’s pedigree as a master builder of small cars, but also of the industrial giant’s miraculous financial recovery.
The launch has been timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the first 500, so emotion is running high – but what should UK drivers look forward to when the Fiat hits forecourts early next year?
With a three-strong engine line-up – all of which comply with strict Euro V emissions regulations – and more than half-a-million possible trim combinations, potential buyers will certainly have no shortage of choice.

