Filed under: Convertibles, Geneva Motor Show, FIAT

The Fiat 500 has been a runaway success, but so far only the standard hatchback body-style has been offered The first derivative, however, is tipped to debut at the Geneva Motor Show this March.

Like the test mule spotted previously (and unlike Castagna's concept shown above), the 500 C, as the convertible version will be called, will feature a solid frame between which a canvas roof can be deployed or retracted. Earlier reports suggested that this targa-style convertible would later be supplemented by a full cabrio, but we'll have to wait and see on that, as well as the engine options. The standard 70-hp 1.2-liter four will likely carry over along with the 100-hp 1.4L unit that transformed the ho-hum Panda - with which the 500 shares its underpinnings - into the much-loved Panda 100HP go-kart. Diesel and Abarth versions may follow as well, along with a start-stop system anticipated to save 8% on fuel consumption to be offered on both the open and closed versions of the 500. We'll bring you more on the 500 C as we approach the show in March, after which the retro targa will go on sale in England first and then other markets this spring to do battle with the new MINI Cabrio.

[Source: 4Car]Fiat 500 C drop-top to debut at Geneva show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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