11.02.2004 FIRST LOOK AT FIAT'S GENEVA MOTOR SHOW BOUND 500 CONCEPT

These images offer a look at the concept of the future '500' that will be unveiled at the beginning of next month in Geneva. Due to hit production in 2006 this stylish city car will take Fiat back to their roots with a bang.

Designed in-house at Fiat Centro Style, the new 500, which draws heavily on its predecessor's looks, will be based on an all new mini platform, codename 199, with prices expected to start at around €14,000..

Chunky, cute and practical, Fiat hope it will emulate the success of the original 'bubble car' 500 which had sold more that three million by the time production ceased twenty eight years ago. The front end draws unashamedly on the original, the rear presents strong shades of the 3-door Stilo, while a large 'Skydome' roof signifies Fiat's lead in this area.

The range of powerplants on offer will be wide and powerful. The entry level engine will be a 80bhp 1.2-litre petrol, closely followed by a 95bhp 1.4-litre and 120bhp 1.6-litre. These three will be joined by the compact new 1.3 Multijet diesel, with 70bhp, 90bhp and 115bhp versions all available.

However, the most exciting option will be a range topping Abarth version, which will see a turbo added to the 1.6-litre petrol version, the end result will pump out a staggering 180bhp. Fiat's engineers hope that this powerful option will emulate the legendary original 500 Abarth.