Under $30K: 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

If you have seen the commercials for the Fiat 500 Abarth, you know that there is an exotic flare to the spirit of the Italian automaker. The Abarth might be more than most urban motorist really need or want with over 160-hp, turbo-power and a stiff sports suspension. However, it looks as good as your favorite swim suit model on a warm summer beach. It can get your pulse going that is for sure. Practicality is our master and that is why Fiat has brought in another Fiat 500 family member to give you that “just right” feeling. Introducing the 2013 Fiat 500T.

By now most people know what a Fiat 500 is; a small urban car that is more of a fashion accessory and style choice than cheap transportation. And for that, it really fits the bill. The Fiat 500T is a 135-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder that will plaster a smile on your face when you put your foot down, but also be a little more manageable on a day to day basis. Like its other siblings, the 500T has a similar tall and top heavy bias as compared to its closed competition, the MINI Cooper S. The sports-tuned suspension in the 500T helps tone down body roll and the Multi-Air turbo four-cylinder provides smooth and strong power without the too much indication of turbo lag. Mat the turbo to a well balanced 5-speed “Heavy Duty” manual transmission and you have the recipe for a lot of fun around your city streets.

Oh, so you caught that it was only a five-speed? Well, remember this is a city car…how many gears do you need? Whether you like four, five or six speeds, the Fiat 500T is still pretty good on gas with a city rating of 28 mpg and a highway rating of 34 mpg. The highway might seem disappointing, but keep in mind this is just one mile per gallon less than the MINI Cooper S, so it is competitive.

Then there is the interior; the Fiat really shines here, but there isn’t a lot of difference between the 500T and the other 500 models. You still get a nice layout including a well integrated circular gauge cluster that contains your speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and trip computer information. It comes in a standard reddish/orange digital lettering and has plenty of attention to detail with chrome rings and accents. You will also find digital climate control in the 500T and the painted dashboard areas to match the exterior color—in our test vehicle this was the Cooper color called Rame.

Besides the engine and suspension, the biggest difference is really on the exterior. The 500T comes with the 16” aluminum wheels (set off by some nice 500 center caps), side sill ground effects, red brake calipers, chrome exhaust tip (not to mention a great exhaust note!), rear spoiler and heated body-colored mirrors.

But is it fun to drive? The answer is…YES! Of course it is. Sure, it leans a little bit more than a MINI, but it isn’t a MINI it is a Fiat. It has this Italian sense of design that is quirky, yet refined. The heated seats, and the interior finishes, are wonderful for such a small car and one that starts at $19,500 in the 500T. Our test car was optioned up to $22,350 by adding the hip BEATS™ Audio Package, those heated seats, the automatic climate control and satellite radio. Not too shabby considering the MINI Cooper S starts at $24,000.

The bottom-line is really this: if you want something small, fun and unique, then look no further than the 2013 Fiat 500T. And yes, you can go to Costco with it—don’t make me show you the pictures to prove it!