Latest top-end Fiat 500 is a stylish Rockstar

Yup, that really is its name...

14 May 2019 at 15:20

Fiat has updated its popular 500 model for the summer, introducing two new range-topping versions called Star and Rockstar.

Sitting above the mid-range Sport model in the 500 line-up, the two models are designed to offer more style and technology than their lowlier siblings. To that end, both come with Fiat’s seven-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system, complete with the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration systems.

On the style front, meanwhile, the Star comes with chrome details, 16-inch alloy wheels and fixed glass roof as standard. There’s also a healthy paint palette that includes a new metallic Powder Pink, Avantgarde Bordeaux and Epic Blue.

Inside, meanwhile, the newcomer gets a choice of two interior colour combinations, plus a choice of dashboard colours. Up to now, customers have only been able to have the dashboard in the same colour as the bodywork, but Fiat is now offering a choice of matt white or matt Bordeaux. Whichever drivers choose can be paired with one of the two interior ambiences, including the new Matelassé finish, which teams techno-leather details and Bordeaux stitching.

Starting at £15,395 for a 500 hatchback and £18,045 for a 500C convertible, the new Star model comes with a 1.2-litre, 68 bhp petrol engine as standard, although customers will be able to upgrade. Those sticking with the standard engine can opt for an automatic gearbox, while those in search of more power can opt for the turbocharged 0.9-litre TwinAir engine with 84 bhp.

The even more kit-laden Rockstar, on the other hand, starts at £15,565, and that money buys you the bumpers and the side sills from the Sport, as well as the fixed glass roof, 16-inch alloy wheels and satin-finish chrome bodywork details. Those details are teamed with another generous colour palette, including a new matte green, Electronica Blue and Pasadoble Red.

The Rockstar’s interior is designed to be sportier than that of the Star model, with pinstripe seat fabric and black eco leather on the seats. Like the Star, though, customers get the choice of dashboard colours, although the colours in question have changed. Those opting for the more expensive model get the choice of matt green with grey details or satin graphite with blue.

Under the bonnet, however, the engine range is identical to that of the Star, with the entry price buying you the 1.2-litre, 68 bhp motor. Spend £17,015, though, and you can have the 0.9-litre engine with 84 bhp. And the same choices apply to the 500C convertible model, although the prices change. The 1.2 comes in at £18,215, while the 0.9 costs £19.665.