The Fiat 500 line-up in the United States is dropping the normally aspirated engine option to go all-turbo for 2018, with the 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine now available on all models while there will be some trim and equipment upgrades as well as three new body colours for the new Model Year.
The 2018 Fiat 500 line-up will be available in three models: Pop, Lounge and the high-performance Abarth.
Pop and Lounge models now come standard with the 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine, which features a single turbocharger, twin intercoolers and a sport-tuned exhaust, and delivers 135 horsepower and 150 lb/ft of torque – 34 hp more than the outgoing normally aspirated model.
That should address any issues of lack of power from the 500.
The Multiair Turbo engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission as standard and is also available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
“With an all-turbo line-up, the iconic Fiat 500 now offers an even more dynamic driving experience and more standard horsepower than any of its competitors,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and Fiat, FCA – North America. “In fact, the entire FIAT brand lineup now comes standard with turbocharged power, adding to our roster of fun-to-drive, Italian-designed vehicles.”
The Pop and Lounge trim level models are also updated with standard 16-in aluminium wheels, a performance braking system, sport suspension and ParkView rear backup camera. Exterior updates include body-colour front and rear lower bumpers, side sills, a sports spoiler, fog lamps and “Turbo” badging on the tailgate.
On the Abarth 500, the 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine now delivers up to 160 hp and 183 lb/ft torque.
The 500 line-up also features three new colours for 2018 – Brillante Red, Mezzanotte Blue Pearl and Vesuvio Black Pearl – to add up to a total of 11 exterior paint colour choices. The MY2018 500 recently made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show and will start deliveries next month.
Video: Fiat 500 MY2018 debut at Chicago Auto Show
