A new 1.3-litre diesel engine has joined the Fiat 500 line-up and is available to order now.
Revised in September 2015, the 500 has had over 40 percent of its components replaced. From the outside there’s a refreshed grille design with 3D effect, new headlights and ring-like LED daytime running lights, plus a redesigned bumper that features a chrome bar if you pick Lounge trim.
Inside a revised centre console features a new multimedia system which includes the latest on board infotainment and connectivity system (called UConnect), and there’s also a new modern looking digital display.
Originally launched with three petrol engines, the diesel 1.3-litre has finally joined the line-up and is expected to be particularly popular with company car drivers.
The key stats include CO2 emissions of 89g/km, placing this Fiat 500 in an 18 percent BIK tax band for the 2015/16 tax year, and an official combined fuel economy of 83mpg.
Employing second-generation MultiJet technology and a turbocharger, the new 1.3-litre diesel produces 94bhp and 200Nm of torque capable of accelerating the car from 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds.
Available in Pop Star and Lounge trim levels, P11D prices start at £14,110 for the hardtop 500 Pop Star 1.3 -litre MultiJet II and £16,760 for the convertible 500C version meaning tax bills could be as low as £42* a month for a 20 percent tax payer.
Although these figures impress, Fiat is quick to point out the diesel is ideally suited to long journeys between congested destinations. If your annual mileage doesn’t exceed 10,000 then you may want to consider the 84bhp 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol which offers an official fuel consumption figure of 74mpg combined with CO2 emissions of 90g/km (74mpg and 88g/km with the Dualogic transmission), placing this car in a 15 percent BIK tax band for the 2015/16 tax year. It’s also £1,100 cheaper and will cost a 20 percent tax payer £32.50* a month.
Standard equipment includes electric front windows, Uconnect Radio with six speakers, USB port, LED daytime running lights, air-con, 15-inch alloy wheels and a 50/50 split folding rear seat with adjustable rear headrests.
To read the full review of the Fiat 500 hatchback click here
*Monthly tax costs are based on the 2015/16 tax year
