Spied: 2010 Fiat 500 Cabrio

16/11/2008 - 06:22 Fiat, Fiat 500, Multijet, 2010, Italy, style statement, compact size, Giardinetta, Fiat 500 cabrio, fabric roof, Roberto Giolito, Fiat, Spy pictures Dave

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The Fiat 500 has always been a sensation since its launch more than a year back. The most recent addition to the Fiat 500 lineup was the sports version - The Abarth. Just recently, Fiat was caught testing their upcoming Fiat 500 Cabrio version in Italy, due to be launched in 2010.

The Fiat 500’s compact size and low cost means, it can have only a manual folding soft-top. To accommodate the roof when folded, the rear seat will have to be vacated.

Fiat’s styling director Roberto Giolito had previously stated that the car would remain simple and affordable, and that recent advancements in their fabric roof design will remove some off its perceived drawbacks.

Slightly revised styling will mostly be handled by one of Italy’s famed design houses but most of the lines from the hardtop will be carried over. Engine options will be the same as the hardtop, which means the 70Bhp, 1.2L and 100Bhp, 1.4L petrol engines and the ultra-efficient 75Bhp, 1.3L Multijet diesel will remain under the bonnet.

The list of Fiat 500 variants won’t end with the Abarth and Cabrio models, as Fiat is also planning a high-performance Abarth ‘SS’ for launch in upcoming auto-shows. There’s also speculation that a long-wheelbase ‘Giardinetta’ wagon could be added to the lineup sometime next year as well.

IAB Comment: The Fiat 500 Hard-Top is already being considered a Style statement. The 2010 Fiat 500 Cabrio will make it even better.