Reborn Capri

It's the car every Ford fan has been waiting to see! Here’s the new Capri.The original was one of the most famous and best loved models in the firm’s history, and left the scene in the late Eighties. Now, the time has come to reinvent the classic.Affordable coupés are experiencing a real renaissance, and Ford has already proved its talent for building niche products with models such as the S-MAX compact MPV and Kuga 4x4. So the stage is set for the Capri to make its stunning comeback.One thing is for sure – it will not be short of competition. Audi has its A5 and Volkswagen has resurrected the Scirocco, while Toyota is planning a Celica replacement based on Subaru Impreza running gear.There’s also Hyundai’s forthcoming Coupé, plus news that Peugeot has at last given its 308 RC Z the green light for production.

But while there will be an army of rivals, the Capri will certainly have style in its favour. As you can see from our pictures, the new Ford is a real feast for the eyes. If it seems a little familiar, that’s because it takes some cues from the 2003 Visos concept.However, it mixes those with the company’s latest design themes. At the front there are the trademark twin grilles, with a large lower air intake incorporating neat spotlights. Bold Mondeo-style headlamps complete the Capri’s striking look.Its profile harks back to the original model, with a tail-heavy stance and familiar C-shaped rear windows and thick pillars. At the back, strong shoulder lines combine with distinctive tail-lights and a sloping tailgate to create a pert-looking rear. A neat roof spoiler and venturi-style lower bumper finish the design off.Inside, the Capri will offer a 2+2 seating layout, with a cabin inspired by the current-generation Mondeo’s. Under the skin, it’s likely that Ford will follow VW’s approach with the Scirocco, which sits on the Golf platform, and base the car around the Focus. That will mean a front-wheel-drive layout and a similar engine line-up to the family model, with the range topped by the 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged unit from the ST hot hatch.

An RS version, powered by a 3.2-litre six-cylinder motor and offering four-wheel drive, could also be on the cards.With the Focus as a starting point, things bode well for the Capri’s hand-ling. Engineers will give the new model a sporty suspension set-up to ensure excellent grip and agility. There’s even the possibility it will benefit from the Mondeo’s adaptive damping system. This would provide the car with sharp handling or refined cruising ability at the flick of a switch.
As Ford has yet to officially confirm its new Capri plans, we won’t see the car before the next decade. However, it has been reported that the blue oval is planning to reveal a concept version of the coupé at a major motor show in 2009.Source

Ford Fiesta RS

Calling all fast Ford fans – get ready for the ultimate Fiesta. Following our sensational pictures of the ST in Issue 994, Auto Express can now give you the best look yet at an even hotter version – the RS.Taking Fiesta performance to new heights, the exciting model will be a stripped-out, lightweight pocket rocket. It’s effectively a hardcore version of the ST, promising few creature comforts but amazing handling and even more driver appeal.he newcomer is set to rival forthcoming high-performance superminis such as MINI’s John Cooper Works, along with existing extreme hot hatches including Vaux­hall’s Corsa VXR. But the Fiesta RS will actually be closest in spirit to the Renaultsport Clio 197 Cup – another car that takes a minimalistic route.

As you can see from our exclusive images, the aggressive bodykit adds bulging wheel­arches, lowered side sills and a rear spoiler to the Fiesta’s already sporty lines.News that a hot Fiesta is on the way will be music to the ears of buyers who had been looking forward to the previous-generation Fiesta RS, previewed at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show as a concept (pictured below right).That project was canned when Ford bosses couldn’t make it economically viable across Europe. RS sales are always biggest in the UK, whereas take-up in France, Germany and Spain is much smaller. These days, conditions are, if anything, even tougher with high steel prices and a strong Euro making it very difficult to make money on a small car – particularly if it’s a flagship performance hatchback.However, thanks to Ford’s increased profitability in Europe, hot models are back on the agenda. The Focus RS has already been given the green light for production (see Issue 992) and the Fiesta version is the next step.Available in limited numbers, the hot Fiesta will have a special-edition feel with a stripped-out cabin featuring racing-style seats, lightweight materials throughout and lots of RS detailing. To keep the weight down, kit will be basic – and that’s great news for performance.It’s likely to use a slightly uprated version of the ST’s potential 1.6-litre turbocharged engine – inspired by the hi-tech range of small cap-acity direct-injection EcoBoost turbo units revealed by Ford at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year. With that on board, the RS would develop about 200bhp and sprint from 0-60mph in only six seconds, on its way to a 140mph top speed. With its light weight, CO2 emissions and economy should be kept down.It’s unlikely, however, that the Fiesta will follow the forthcoming Focus RS’s lead by having a clever front differential. But it could use Ford’s six-speed twin-clutch semi-auto gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle­shifters, giving the RS the feel of a Junior World Rally Car. Add wider tracks, stiffened springs, uprated dampers and thicker anti-roll bars plus fat, sticky tyres, and the RS promises to handle brilliantly.hile the new Fiesta will reach dealerships in October and the ST is due in 2009, the RS isn’t likely to arrive until 2010, with a potential price tag of around £17,000.Source

New Ford Focus RS

Take a look at the best picture yet of Ford’s Focus RS! Just a few months after bosses gave the new hot hatch the green light (Issue 992), we caught this striking prototype testing in Germany.
While the car wears a previous-generation Focus ST bodykit, there’s a big giveaway that it’s no ordinary model – check out the giant scoop on the bonnet, which feeds the modified 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine with cool air. Twin bonnet air vents, harking back to the Escort RS Cosworth, will replace the scoop on the production car. Blistered wheelarches, a rear wing and a low front splitter will also feature.

With a larger turbocharger, remapped electronics and a bigger intercooler, the 2.5-litre Focus ST-derived unit will produce around 280bhp, enabling the RS to sprint from 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph.It’s likely that Ford will equip the newcomer with a clever electronic differential, giving the front-wheel-drive layout excellent traction. A six-speed manual box will be fitted, but Ford’s new twin-clutch VW DSG-style Powershift transmission could appear, too. The RS will go on sale next year, priced around £25,000. A concept will be revealed at the British Motor Show in London in July. Source

Ford GT Avro 720 Mirage

Brooklands-based supercer specialist Avro Motor Cars has joined forces with Roush Technologies to create the ultimate Ford special edition. Only 10 examples of the Avro 720 Mirage will be created, with a top speed in excess of 220mph.

Every model will be finished in the bright orange paint shown here, with matt black details and wheels to go with the bespoke badging. Designers have even done away with the rear bumper to save weight.
Engineers have managed to better the existing Roush tuned Ford GT’s power output by 120bhp, taking the total to 720bhp. This is due in part to a highly tuned supercharger, while the chassis has also been upgraded to cope with the extra performance.Source

Ford Focus : Buyer's Guide

When the second-generation Focus arrived in late 2004, it didn’t create the same stir as the 1998 original – but don’t let that put you off. Improv­ing significantly on its superb predecessor was always going to be tough, yet Ford still managed it. The MkII is more roomy and refined, with a better cabin, and it’s just as good to drive.

History
the model hit showrooms in Septem­ber 2004, offering a choice of three or five-door hatch, saloon and estate bodystyles. Engine options ranged from a 1.4-litre petrol up to a 2.0-litre diesel, but buyers had to wait until March 2006 for the 1.8-litre petrol.In September 2005, the fabulous Focus ST arrived, with a thirsty 221bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. A face­lifted version of the latest model has also just appeared in UK dealers.

What to look for
Odd clicking noises on the 1.6 auto can be traced to the path of the gear­shift control cable, although re-routing it is a simple and permanent fix. If you are buying a basic Focus, ensure the seats offer enough support, as higher-spec models have heavier bolstering.
At the other end of the spectrum, if you buy a top-of-the-range variant fitted with big wheels, check the ride isn’t too firm. Even 17-inch alloys on low-profile tyres can affect the ride comfort, so take any potential buy for a thorough test drive on broken surfaces before parting with your cash.If you are considering a CC coupé-cabrio model (from 2006 onwards), take it through a car wash to see if any water gets into the cabin, and make sure the roof works. All sorts of sealing problems with the mechanism have been reported – and resolving them hasn’t been straightforward.

Alternatives
the great-value Vauxhall Astra is the Focus’s main rival, and there are thousands available. Mazda’s 3 shares its underpinnings with the Ford, so it is worth a look, while other key rivals are also Japanese, in the shape of Toyota’s Corolla and the Honda Civic. While you’ll buy the Toyota for its unfailing reliability, the Civic’s talented chassis and strong build make it a great all-rounder. VW’s Golf is another option, but it’s more pricey than the Focus.Source

Vauxhall Corsa VXR 888 : First Drive

It’s tough for car makers to launch a performance car brand. If you don’t believe us, just ask Vauxhall. While the firm might not admit it, the introduction of its VXR badge has been anything but plain sailing.Despite pouring millions of pounds into winning the British Touring Car Championship with the 2007 Vectra, and developing one of the most comprehensive ranges of performance cars available, the VXR logo still doesn’t have the impact of its rivals.Badges such as Volkswagen’s GTI, Ford’s RS and ST and even Subaru’s STI still have greater reach. But hats off to Vauxhall, because the firm has vowed it’s not going to give up the battle just yet. And the Corsa VXR 888 is the next step as it attempts to establish itself as a major force.Developed purely to help bolster the credibility of the brand, the model’s specification reads like a boy racer’s Christmas wish list. With a tuned engine pumping out an astonishing 225bhp, the Corsa is easily the most powerful model available in the class.And this is no wolf in sheep’s clothing. Vauxhall hasn’t missed a single opportunity to trumpet its supermini’s giant-killing pace. There are black alloy wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres with crazy tread patterns. Blue brake calipers grip grooved brake discs, while further up, the bodywork is adorned with wings and air vents.The lowered suspension puts it close to the tarmac, but the Flame Red paintwork, which offers a dramatic contrast to the black wheels, ensures the car looks as if it’s riding even closer to the ground.Inside, new bucket seats are the biggest change to the standard VXR’s already neat and stylish cabin. The driving position offers plenty of adjustability, and the chairs are very comfortable – despite their extreme design. Twist the ignition key, and the final piece of the 888’s package of enhancements makes its presence felt.A new exhaust system, designed by specialist firm Remus, is certainly louder than standard, but at low revs its note is menacing, rather than unpleasantly noisy. Head out on to the road, and the newcomer lives up to its billing as one of the most extreme road cars Vauxhall has built.Its looks certainly turn heads, but it’s that exhaust note that really grabs people’s attention. From 4,000rpm, its purposeful growl turns into a roar, punctuated only by a rally car-style crackle on gearchanges.Power delivery is best described as sudden. Floor the throttle, and in truth not much happens, but once the turbo picks up, lag gives way to an avalanche of torque, all of which seems to arrive at around 3,000rpm.However, despite the firecracker exhaust note and uneven delivery, the car’s road manners are not quite as wild as you might imagine. Although the ride is firm, it’s not harsh, and even though the huge power is fed through the front wheels, there’s nowhere near as much torque steer as you would probably expect.The handling is light but accurate, and the VXR 888 has the busy, restless feel of a race car, although this means you have to concentrate to keep it in a straight line.Once tucked into corners, though, the model offers an impressive amount of grip. However, careless use of the throttle quickly introduces a large amount of understeer, and the Corsa will skate across the tarmac as the wheels spin the power away.Fortunately, a quick-acting traction control system steps in before the VXR has a chance to behave too wildly. The uprated brakes are extremely reassuring, too. The all-disc set-up is very powerful and resists fade – even under hard use. But the big question is, will all of this be enough to guarantee the VXR a place in the hearts of the most demanding enthusiasts?There’s no doubt that the VXR 888 serves up considerable thrills on the road, but its brash looks might be too much for some tastes. And while its driving experience is rewarding, it doesn’t quite have the measure of the excellent Ford Fiesta ST185.Nevertheless, when it comes to straight-line performance, there’s little that can touch the hot Corsa, and for that alone it really should be recognised as the spectacular performance car it undoubtedly is. The elite club of the UK’s hottest hatches has just found itself a new member...

Rival: FORD FIESTA ST185
The Fiesta is due to be replaced, but the Mountune-prepared ST185 demonstrates why Ford has a great reputation for building hot hatches. Race-spec suspension offers fantastic grip and a new exhaust boosts power, yet because the updates are official, the ST’s warranty remains intact.Source

Rating:

Vauxhall Astra

Vauxhall is set to launch a fierce new attack on its bitter rival Ford with this: the next Astra.Boasting a fresh look and a wide range of engines, the striking hatchback will combine style and driver appeal like never before.It goes on sale in 18 months’ time, and is the next step in Vaux­hall’s renaissance. The new Astra will follow in the footsteps of the Vectra-replacing Insignia – which debuts at July’s Brit­ish Motor Show in London – as well as the redesigned Meriva, due in deal­ers here early in 2009.As with those models, the Astra has received a style overhaul, bringing in a shape which is sleeker than before. And with replacements for big-hitters such as the Volks­wagen Golf and Renault Mégane scheduled to arrive within 12 months, that’s just as well.We told you about the new Astra in Issue 947. But now, our spies have scooped one of the first prototypes undergoing testing – and our main pictures show what’s lurking under the disguise.The nose is clearly inspired by the Insignia, and wears bold headlights and deep air intakes, while at the rear there is a squat Seat Leon-style tail, as well as distinctive C-pillars.As well as the five-door shown here, there will be a three-door Sport Hatch model. And as is the case with the current generation, this car will be completely different from its more practical brother, with a rakish tailgate and lower roofline creating a coupé-like profile.Inside, the Astra will take the fight to the Golf and Ford Focus head-on, with a quality cabin that takes a leaf out of the Insignia’s book. Soft-touch plastics are fitted throughout, while standard equipment will include Blue-tooth phone connectivity, plus integrated sat-nav and audio technology.Parent firm General Motors has conceived the newcomer as a world car, and it will share its platform with Saab’s forthcoming 9-1 (see Page 14). Astra mechanicals will also underpin several Chevrolets, including the new Volt, plus the next Aveo and Lacetti.The model will reach the US, too, wearing a Saturn badge. Diesel isn’t so popular there, but the car’s close relationship with the Volt means a hybrid petrol drivetrain will be available for the first time. A FlexFuel bio­ethanol model will be offered as well.In Europe, though, small-capacity turbocharged petrol and diesel powerplants will account for the vast majority of sales. And sitting at the top of the new Astra range will be a 250bhp 2.0-litre turbo VXR version, complete with four-wheel drive.The rest of the line-up is front-wheel drive, although engineers have developed a new multi-link independ­ent rear suspension set-up. That should ensure the Vauxhall delivers handling to match the class-leading Focus.Expect to see the first concept car previewing the new Astra at a major motor show in 2009. UK sales will then start a few months later.Source

Audi A4

Driving
Dynamically, the latest A4 is a revelation. It’s been transformed over older models, and seems so much more grown up. It has better body control than any of its rivals and feels sure-footed in corners. The steering is sharp and the turn-in positive, and while it isn’t as dynamic as a 3-Series, it’s far more composed than a Mercedes. The Audi strikes a good balance when it comes to ride quality, too. It’s firm but not harsh, and excellent damping means the A4 is taut without being unforgiving. The most popular engine is likely to be the 2.0-litre TDI, and it too has an impressive range of abilities. Power arrives quickly, is delivered smoothly and it’s also quiet and refined, too. Other engines include an impressive 1.8-litre turbo petrol, plus V6 diesel and petrol powerplants.

Marketplace
The newcomer has a distinctively sporting appearance, but it’s still unmistakable – not just as an Audi, but as an A4. The saloon shares front-end styling with the A5 Coupe, and its sharp lines have a taut, strong look. An Avant estate sits alongside it in the line-up. Natural rivals are the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class; these German models dominate the compact executive saloon sector, but rejuvenated ‘mainstream’ machinery such as the Ford Mondeo and Mazda 6 will also claim to be good-value alternatives. There are two A4 trims, SE and S-line, offered with a quickly expanding line of engines.

Owning
The sense of luxury and attention to detail continues inside; it’s similar to Audi’s top-of-the-range A8 limo. The layout, quality and feel of the cabin, which features the same dash as the A5, is smarter than any rival’s. If we were being critical, the plastic panel on the dash-mounted CD changer is a bit shiny, although it only stands out because everything else is so impressive. An electronic parking brake and Multi Media Interface screen, first seen in the A6 and A8, are fitted as standard. Ergonomically, it’s superb, and there’s lots of steering wheel and seat adjustment, plus ample stowage space. Combine this with more rear legroom than any rival bar the Ford Mondeo, and the interior is a winner. It’s even economical to run. List prices undercut a 3-Series, insurance ratings are competitive, retained values are impressive and fuel economy strong (although the exceptional BMW beats it on this score). Source

• On the road price: £22,590 - £30,290
• For : Looks modern, is great to drive and own, refined and desirable
• Against : Small trim line-up, not quite as economical as a 3-Series

First Drive of Chrysler Grand Voyager

Rating:

Chrysler has had a tough time in the UK of late. As part of a renewed drive to pep up sales, it has introduced new cars such as the Ford Mondeo-rivalling Sebring. But early signs have not been encouraging, and so far the move has failed to set the market alight.So, the launch of the all-new Grand Voyager can’t come soon enough – and the model has a lot to prove. Last year, its predecessor was lambasted by Euro NCAP for a shocking perfor­mance in crash tests. It was awarded only two stars for occupant protection and zero for pedestrian safety. But with 30 new features, Chrysler claims the all-new MPV is not just the safest version, but the most luxurious yet.Safety has clearly been a priority – side curtain airbags all-round and added rollover protection are standard, which should give peace of mind to family buyers. Brake assist and stability control systems are also included.The Grand Voyager has lost none of the versatility of its predecessor. The excellent Stow ’n Go seating system is carried over and, as before, the second and third rows can be quickly and easily folded into the floor. Buyers choosing the top-spec Limited variant can also opt for the new £750 Swivel ‘n Go system – this brings a second row of captain’s chairs which rotate 180 degrees, plus a removable table and power folding third row. Electrically sliding side doors mean getting into the back is simple. They open more quickly, too, as does the powered tailgate. The boot space is another strong point – even with the rearmost chairs in place, there’s still a 756-litre capacity. Drop all the seats, and this increases to 3,296 litres.What lets the Grand Voyager down is the interior quality. While the cabin represents a significant improvement over the car it replaces, some of the plastics on display feel cheap, and the design is rather uninspiring. Also disappointing are the shiny leather seats – this doesn’t feel like a car that costs £30,000-plus! We’re far from convinced about the looks, either. Gone are the rounded lines of the old car, replaced by a boxy shape that’s more minivan than stylish MPV.On the road, the Grand is quieter thanks to better noise insulation and the smooth 2.8-litre CRD engine. The diesel delivers 161bhp and 360Nm of torque, and provides reas­onable performance considering the Chrysler weighs two tonnes. A 3.8-litre V6 petrol is available, although it’s thirsty and won’t appeal to many buyers in the UK.Either way, the Grand Voyager is much happier on motorways than on twisty roads. There is plenty of body roll through corners, but long-distance cruising is a real strength, as it glides over rough surfaces in comfort.Starting prices remain unchanged, so the base LX is £25,995 – decent value given the space and kit on offer. Three-zone climate control and electric windows all-round are included, in addition to those powered doors. The top-spec Limited isn’t cheap, at £32,995, and it doesn’t even feature sat-nav. That comes as part of the £2,000 entertainment package, which also brings a pair of drop-down DVD screens and a 20GB music server. With its square dimensions, the Grand Voyager bucks the trend set by sporty MPVs such as Ford’s S-MAX. But there’s no denying it has superb space and is truly comfortable.
Rival: Renault Grand Espace
while the Renault isn’t as large as the Voyager, it’s more stylish. Interior quality is also way ahead, although it trails the Chrysler for standard kit and outright versatility.Source

Ford Focus

Driving
The Focus is straightforward to drive, thanks to its positive controls, while on the open road a snappy gearshift and surefooted dynamics mean it feels solid. Body control is excellent and it remains stable, even when pushed hard. The ride quality is equally impressive, with the suspension gliding over rough surfaces – although the set-up is firmer than some rivals, it’s not easily unsettled by imperfections. Engines are carried over and it’s the diesels that impress most. The 1.6 TDCi is smooth and has a broad spread of pull, while the 2.0 TDCi is punchy and now available with an optional auto – though interestingly, the power band feels narrower. 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines are fine, while the 1.4 struggles and the 2.0 seems a bit pointless.

Marketplace
The Focus is a crucial model for Ford – so, in late 2007, it received a mid-life nip and tick. This was to help regain its position as the best compact hatchback in the sector. With style high on most buyers’ agendas, it’s the looks that received the most attention – every panel apart from the roof was replaced, to introduce the firm’s ‘kinetic’ design first seen on the S-Max. Ford simplified the trim line-up, to Style, Studio, Zetec and Titanium – ditched were old-fashioned LX and Ghia tags. Ford admirably now fits ESP as standard on all versions. There remain three and five-door bodystyles, plus estate and saloon versions, and rivals include the Vauxhall Astra, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Golf, Peugeot 308 – as well as ‘crossovers’ such as the Nissan Qashqai, and emerging value-led rivals like the Kia Cee’d.

Owning
The revised Focus benefited from a significantly updated and more sophisticated-feeling cabin. The quality of the materials has certainly improved, but the design is still conventional and looks a little dated. However, there’s little wrong with the driving position or the layout of the controls. It’s an easy car to get on with, while the finish is high. Passenger space is decent, but when it comes to practicality, the Focus is somewhat limited. The rear seat system lacks flexibility – the backs simply flip down – and there’s isn’t as much storage space, either. Ford has a vast dealer network and servicing costs are inexpensive too, while it’s economical, especially the diesels – and the ‘easy fuel’ system guarantees you’ll never put the wrong fuel in the tank. Retained values are only average though, reflecting the car’s mass-market status.Source

• On the road price: £11,945 - £19,145
• For : Kinetic design, ride and handling, impressive diesels
• Against : Average retained values, cabin looks dated

Skoda Roomster Scout

It looks quirky but some clever thinking has gone into the well-engineered Roomster Scout.

Driving
The Scout’s standard 16-inch alloys may look smart wrapped in their low-profile tyres, yet the sporty rubber doesn’t do a lot for the ride. Although the firm suspension helps counter body roll in corners, bumps and potholes are not that well absorbed. And while the Skoda feels exceptionally composed and stable at all times, proving safe and easy to drive, it’s neither that agile nor engaging. The Scout offers a choice of four engines – the 1.4-litre petrol struggles, and the 1.6-litre doesn’t feel all that more lively. Better are the diesels; the 1.4-litre TDI has a unique engine note but is effective, while the 1.9-litre TDI is punchy and effortless. Alas, it’s also unrefined, with a tiring drone from under the bonnet on the motorway. All Roomsters have a substantial-feeling gearbox, though it’s not that slick or precise – it’s all too easy to select reverse instead of first when pulling away.

Marketplace
The Roomster remains a distinctive-looking machine, enhanced in Scout guise with well-judged matt back bumpers, wheelarch extensions and lower door trims. And as the Roomster is a supermini-MPV, it provides a very distinctive take on the perfect transport solution for a growing family, offering practicality in spades. There is just the single well-equipped trim line, with prices generally in line with the top-spec ‘3’ model of the standard Roomster. Off-road-look rivals include the Peugeot 207 Outdoor and Ford Fusion, while Renault also sells a mini-estate version of the Renault Clio, and both Citroen and Peugeot offer ultra-practical van-derived models for those who need more space; the Berlingo Multispace and Partner Combi are great value.

Owning
The Skoda has three individual chairs in the rear, plus big doors and wide openings to make getting in and out a breeze. The seats are fiddly to fold, though, and while the boot is gigantic, the load sill is high. However, adults will enjoy a real sense of space, and the two outer chairs slide back and forth while the smaller middle chair folds down to form a handy table with cupholders. Indeed, the whole cabin is well designed, with a good driving position, comfortable seats and ample cabin stowage. There’s a real feeling of quality, too. The boxy shape does, however, hurt fuel economy a little, and while retained values are OK, rivals hold on to a little more of the list price after three years. Source

• Rating:
• On the road price: £12,630 - £14,210
• For : Spacious, flexible, practical, reassuring to drive
• Against : Can’t accommodate five adults comfortably, not the most nimble drive

Fiat 500

The 500 is a cheeky charmer: Fiat has a sure-fire hit.

Driving
Fiat's reborn 500 is a great city car. The turning circle is tight, steering can be lightened via the City button, all-round visibility is good and dimensions are compact. But it isn’t so eager at higher speeds. The motorway ride isn't perfect, and can be patchy on urban roads too. As a result, the 500 can be tiring to drive over long distances. If you are after the perfect hot hatch handling you will be disappointed, too. It's a decent drive, but the Fiat falls behind its MINI rival on twisty roads. The 1.2-litre petrol engine is sweeter than the 1.4-litre, but not nearly as smooth, refined or flexible as a MINI’s 1.4-litre. The 1.3-litre diesel is torquey, if clattery. All this, however, fails to detract from the feelgood factor of being behind the wheel of such a cute city slicker.

Marketplace
What’s not to love with the 500? It’s so cute, it makes a MINI look bulky. The design is a triumph, with chrome detailing striking the perfect balance between retro charm and modern chic. Based on the Panda, safety is the key and the 500 is unique in this class in having seven airbags as standard. This helps it to achieve a five-star Euro NCAP crash test score. There are three base engines – 1.2, 1.4 and 1.3 diesel – and three trims, labelled Pop, Lounge and Sport. But the array of options is huge, including 12 paint colours, seven alloy wheels designs, two wheel trims, eight sticker kits, 10 different badges… Fiat counts nearly 550,000 combinations in all! The Fiat’s most obvious rival is the MINI, but the Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 107, Citroen C1 and Ford Ka are also competitors.

Owning
While the Panda is far more spacious, the 500 is still practical. The 185-litre boot is fairly practical and there’s lots of floor space, while the rear seat is fair, too. Up front, good seats are welcome, albeit set a little high, but it’s the dash that grabs your attention – the 500 has retro design features throughout. There’s a lustrous finish to the body-coloured fascia, which gives a solid, classy appearance. It all has real charm and character, so we’re prepared to forgive a few weaknesses – such as the steering wheel’s lack of reach adjustment, and a lack of material quality that dents the 500’s well-engineered feel. But it’s Fiat's dealer network that is one of the 500's biggest challenges. Our maintenance checks proved the situation is currently confused, with huge disparities in quotes for routine maintenance jobs. At least fuel economy, on paper, looks strong. Retained values aren’t bad either – if not as quite as good as a MINI. Source

• On the road price: £7,900 - £10,700
• For : Well equipped, surprisingly roomy, cheap to run, highly desirable
• Against : Flawed driving experience, lacks the MINI’s depth of quality