Fiat 500 facelift coming this year

According to Khabar Khodro, Fiat is planning to launch the next generation version of the iconic Fiat 500 in 2017.

For the current model to hold out until its release, Fiat will introduce a facelift this year, a rendering of which has been made by the publication. The facelift has been spotted testing in Northern Italy by photographers in the last few weeks.

At the front, the rendering shows an updated bumper, new look grille, and headlamps with integrated circular daytime running lights. The side profile remains unchanged, while the rear now gets LED taillamps.

Inside, a larger touchscreen display will be available, while the overall design remains identical to the current car. The infotainment system, called Uconnnect, as seen on other Fiat 500-based versions comes with navigation, entertainment, and Bluetooth features. The system can double up as the screen for the reverse camera, too.

Engine options for the 500 include a basic 1.2-litre petrol unit that makes 69 hp, a smaller but more powerful 0.9-litre TwinAir available in two states of tune: 85 hp and 109 hp, and a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel that makes 95 hp. Gearbox options include a standard 5-speed manual and a ‘Dualogic’ AMT.

Competitors: MINI Cooper, Volkswagen Beetle