• June 7, 2009 -- Lamborghini Announces New, Ambitious Programs For Reducing CO2

The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the Trident carmaker’s history, will make its world wide debut on September 15 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The introduction of the GranCabrio – the Trident’s third prong – completes Maserati’s product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo, GranCabrio.

The GranCabrio represents the very essence of Maserati in terms of open-top cars. It’s a Maserati in the purest sense of the word: from the unmistakable style by Pininfarina to the spacious interior, from the craftsmanship of each detail to the driving pleasure and performance. The Maserati GranCabrio enriches all five senses in a shared open-air experience, without sacrificing comfort and performance. A dream car designed and built for men and women who love to live life in an understated – though sophisticated – manner. Like all the made in Maserati open-top convertibles: special cars aimed at refined connoisseurs.

In fact the GranCabrio is continuing the Maserati tradition in open-top cars, joining models that have played such an important part in the Modena carmaker’s history such as the 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, 1960 3500GT Vignale Spyder, 1964 Mistral Spyder, 1968 Ghibli Spyder and 2001 Spyder designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the car that marked Maserati’s return to the United States. In the footsteps of tradition, the GranCabrio opens a new chapter, because never before have four-seater top-down models ever been produced at the Viale Ciro Menotti Maserati factory. Four proper seats, so that the rear passengers are not merely supporting actors, but co-stars of the journey.

The GranCabrio is powered by a 4.7 litre V8, 323 kW engine and is the convertible with the longest wheelbase on the market. The GranCabrio’s roof is strictly canvas-made, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition.

The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed starting next winter, and experienced by customers the world over from the following spring.

2009 Maserati GranCabrio

• July 10, 2009 -- Fiat 500c UK launch
• June 29, 2009 -- Fiat 500C: much more than a “window to the sky”
• June 17, 2009 -- 2009 Edo Competition Ferrari California
• May 25, 2009 -- New pics in Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder gallery

Porto Cervo (Olbia) provided a stunning backdrop for the unveiling of the Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent”, a new Limited Edition version of 900 that is due to go on sale first in Europe and then in Japan and Australia. It will be available to order from September in Italy, with a list price starting at € 32,200 euro (on-the-road price) for the 2.2 JTS Selespeed version.

The world can catch a first glimpse of the Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” throughout the summer at “YOU”, a new sushi restaurant and lounge bar overlooking the square in Porto Cervo and the lovely old harbour.

This original Limited Edition of the Brera came about as a joint venture between Alfa Romeo and Italia Independent, a brand that operates within several goods sectors to package Italian style and innovation for a global vision. For Italia Independent, “innovation” also means the use of new materials, such as Kevlar, DuPont’s Cordura, Gore-Tex or carbon, teamed with fine fabrics and materials such as linen, Loro Piana cashmere or cellulose acetate to obtain new slants on classic products.

In the same way, Alfa Rome designs and builds cars with state-of-the-art mechanics and engineering, featuring contemporary lines and shapes, that embody the concept of design in motion and emphasise the qualities of comfort, sportiness, elegance and power intrinsic to the Brand. This industrial philosophy is underpinned by Alfa Romeo’s extraordinary legacy of cars, designers, races, engines, style and innovation; a constant presence throughout the technological progress and sporting events of the twentieth century.

It must be emphasised that the Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” is the first standard-production car to offer opaque paintwork (Titanium) over its entire body. This exterior feature is further enhanced by new 18″ alloy wheels with an opaque black turbine pattern and some aluminium features, including the fuel cap, red-painted brake calipers and new “Italia Independent” logo on the car’s rear.

The same attention to detail is evident inside, as is borne out by carbon fibre inserts (on both the dashboard and sporty steering wheel in black leather with red top-stitching) and brushed aluminium plates, personalised with an “Italia Independent” logo on the front seat head restraints. Still in a quest for maximum sportiness, the instrument panel of this original car features round red frames plus an aluminium pedal unit and foot-rest. In the same way, the seat trim and door panels are in the deepest black. Poltrona Frau black leather upholstery with red top-stitching is available as an option.

The Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” can be selected with 185 HP 2.2 JTS or 260 HP 3.2 V6 engines, both combined with 6-speed gearboxes (according to the engine, these may be manual, Selespeed or automatic Q-Tronic). The new version can also come with sophisticated Q4 four-wheel drive, which is exclusive to the 3.2 V6 version.

The Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” also offers a wealth of standard equipment: VDC with 7 airbags, automatic dual zone climate control system, CD/MP3, cruise control and fog lights. Customers can naturally personalise their car from the numerous options available, including xenon headlights, parking sensors, Bose Hi-Fi system, Blue&Me, Blue&Me Nav and the new Instant Nav navigation system with a map of Europe on a SD card and compatibility with Blue&Me.

• June 30, 2009 -- Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni – Driving fun with absolute precision

The new Fiat 500C, just recently launched on main European markets, has a new fan: the supermodel Elle Macpherson. Already the owner of a 500, as soon as she set eyes on the convertible version, Elle wanted to try it out and promptly fell in love with it.

“I love the Fiat 500C, it has that sexy, cool Italian thing going on!” says Elle. “I like the way the car drives – it’s perfect for cities with its small turning circle and the easy way it manoeuvres through London”.

The Fiat 500C was launched in the UK earlier in July and is guaranteed to be one of the “greatest hits” among the motoring public, also in view of its decidedly competitive price.

2009 Fiat Elle Macpherson with Fiat 500C

• July 11, 2009 -- The new Fiat Sedici is the official car of the Juventus training camp
• July 11, 2009 -- George Clooney with Lancia for L’Aquila, an evening in Fregene for the RomaFictionFest
• July 2, 2009 -- Europe celebrates the Fiat 500’s birthday
• April 30, 2009 -- Delta: the difference between Angels and Demons. A film, an ad.

After its recent success at the 56th Cannes International Advertising Festival, the innovative “eco:Drive” is still a hit with users. Available for Fiat 500, Grande Punto, Bravo – and now also Qubo and Croma – the software uses the potential of the Blue&Me platform to give drivers a better perception of how their driving style influences fuel consumption and polluting emissions. During the first eight months following the launch, more than 50,000 people have downloaded it free of charge from the site www.fiat.com/ecodrive.

More than 20,000 people also use it all the time to monitor their driving style, taking part in a lively exchange of views on “eco:Ville”, an online community where you can share your commitment to eco-responsible driving. A great public success but also a specific commitment: “eco:Drive” tips have made it possible to save more than 1,500 tons of CO₂ in Europe – enough energy to light up the streets of a city the size of Geneva for 16 months.

The “eco:Drive” was featured at the 56^th Cannes International Advertising Festival, where it won the most prestigious prize: the “Grand Prix” in the Cyber category, partly through the efforts of the AKQA agency in London.

How does it work? As you drive, “eco:Drive” collects information on how you handle the vehicle and its efficiency. All data are sent through the Blue&Me infotainment system USB port to a standard USB drive where they can be read on a computer. Users can then take a careful look at their fuel consumption and emissions for each trip (essentially creating their own eco-Index) and get tips on how to achieve a more eco-friendly driving style. They can actually improve their score by progressing through a series of tutorials: motorists who are more concerned about becoming eco-responsible drivers can expect a 15% improvement in their driving style, which means cutting CO₂ emissions by 15% and an annual fuel saving of EUR 120 to 200.
The system will also be constantly updated with contributions from its users to make it even more useful. Last but not least, the “eco:Drive” system is based on Blue&Me technology, the platform developed by FIAT Group Automobiles in partnership with Microsoft. The system has already received various international awards, with 800,000 units fitted to various Group models over the last two years.

• June 9, 2009 -- The Fiat 500 wins the “Prize of prizes” awarded by the Ministry for Public Administration and Innovation
• April 9, 2009 -- Fiat 500 wins “2009 World Car Design of the Year” award

The new Fiat Sedici is the official car for the Juventus Football Club training camp set to run from 9^th to 21^st July 2009 in Pinzolo, Trentino. Distinguished by customised Juventus colours, the cars supplied will be ferrying Juventus players and their new coach, Ciro Ferrara, during their transfers on their busy training days.

In addition, Fiat Sedici will also be playing the starring role at an important charity initiative in favour of the non-profit foundation “Crescere Insieme al Sant’Anna” (Growing Together at the Sant’Anna). A charity dinner will be held on Monday 13^th July at the Fiat Chalet in Madonna di Campiglio, featuring guests such as Ciro Ferrara and a generous amount of the winning team’s players. The proceeds will go to the Foundation itself, which has been engaged for years in building the extension of the Neonatal Unit at Sant’Anna Hospital in Turin, in the aim of expanding it and bringing it to the cutting edge of technology. A unique occasion, open to the public, which will allow Juventus fans to meet their favourite players up close and at the same time do some good and enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of the finest and most stylish refuges in this ski resort.

Featuring a renovated exterior and interiors, perfectly in synch with the Fiat family feeling, the new Fiat Sedici is the ideal car for customers in search of a compact SUV, with a strong aesthetic appeal, and capable of standing out both off the road as well as for city use, just as the advertising claim states: “Fiat Sedici. The wild side of the city”. All under the banner of maximum safety and environmentally-friendliness. In this field Fiat Sedici remains unrivalled: in fact, the two new Euro 5 engines (1.6 16v 120 hp petrol and 2.0 16v Multijet 135 hp diesel) rank it at the top of its category in terms of CO₂ emissions. That’s not all: when equipped with the 2.0 135 hp (4×2 drive), which registers a mere 129 grams/km of CO₂, Fiat Sedici also affords government incentives.

Available in three versions (Dynamic, Emotion and Experience), two drives (4×2 and 4×4) and eight bodywork colours, the new Fiat Sedici is the heir of a winning model which has generated 74,000 car registrations since its launch. Moreover, with approximately 44,000 units, it is the most-sold off-road car in Italy.

Fiat Sedici Photo Gallery


• July 22, 2009 -- Love at first sight between Elle Macpherson and the Fiat 500C
• July 11, 2009 -- George Clooney with Lancia for L’Aquila, an evening in Fregene for the RomaFictionFest
• July 2, 2009 -- Europe celebrates the Fiat 500’s birthday
• April 30, 2009 -- Delta: the difference between Angels and Demons. A film, an ad.

Last night, in two completely different sets of circumstances, Lancia hosted two amazing events featuring international show business stars. At one, George Clooney, together with the Nobel Peace Prizewinner Betty Williams, was at the inauguration of the Nobel Peace Hall at the San Demetrio tent city near L’Aquila. At the other, at the Lancia Beach Club Riva in Fregene (Rome), guests took part in the “RomaFictionFest 2009″ including Hill Harper and Sofia Milos of CSI, Christian De Sica, Paolo Conticini, Stefano Ambrogi, Antonella Salvucci and Margherita Granbassi.

“Nobel for Peace Hall” for L’Aquila

Set up using the funds collected from the Nobel Prizes for Peace and sponsored by Lancia, the Nobel Peace Hall is a permanent, multipurpose building which will be designated as a cinema but can also host meetings and other activities. Figures from the world of politics and large organisations took part in the ceremony as well as famous people from the world of show business and the arts. These included the actor George Clooney and the Nobel Peace Prizewinner Betty Williams who wanted to meet some representatives from the communities affected by the earthquake. Some scenes from Fantastic Mr Fox, an animated film by Wes Anderson, featuring the voices of George Clooney and Meryl Streep, were screened after the inauguration of the new Nobel Peace Hall. There was also a special preview screening for the occasion of the Italian version of the film “Ice age 3″.

The initiative supported by Lancia confirms, on the one side, their strong bond with the world of cinema, an exclusive relationship as demonstrated by the direct participation of several of their cars in famous films and the support that, since 2006, the brand has been giving to the main film festivals, those international events standing out for elegance, style and importance. On the other side, the sponsorship of the Nobel Peace Hall is a further example of the strong, well established bond that exists between Fiat and Abruzzo, a collaboration that was set up at the very beginning of the aid measures, between various companies within the Group and the Civil Protection League to deal with the diverse needs that emerged after the earthquake in a timely and effective manner. In this sense Lancia’s commitment to the Nobel Peace Hall represents a real contribution in restoring some normality to the lives of families affected by the disaster.

In addition, in order to support, in practical terms, the G8 summit, which is being held at the moment in L’Aquila, the Fiat Group has placed an entire fleet of 221 vehicles at the Civil Protection League’s disposal including cars, electric vehicles, off-road vehicles, commercial vehicles and buses that will be used for transporting the participants to the summit. The Delta Executive, the Lancia flagship that was recently chosen as the Official Car of the 9th World Summit for Nobel Peace Prizes is a symbol of this participation.

Without forgetting that the Lancia Delta has become the car of cinema stars. Since last year this model is the Official Car of the most prestigious film festivals sponsored by the brand: after its debut at the 65th Venice International Film Festival, a fleet of Deltas accompanied cinema starts on the red carpet in Rome, Barcelona, Milan and Turin. Also, recently the Lancia Delta was “recruited” for the new Columbia Sony Pictures action film “Angels and Demons”. The relationship between the Delta and the cinema doesn’t stop with the new Angels and Demons film. Just think of the exclusive saloon that has been launched internationally using the talents of an actor of the calibre of Richard Gere and a soundtrack composed by the Oscar winning Ennio Morricone.

“Satis…Fiction Night”: the cinema stars meet at the Lancia Beach Club Riva

Last night the original “Satis…Fiction Night” party took place at the Lancia Beach Club Riva in Fregene, one of the most exclusive and elegant clubs on the Rome coastline that is sponsored by the brand for the third consecutive year.

Hill Harper and Sofia Milos of CSI, Christian De Sica, Paolo Conticini, Stefano Ambrogi, Antonella Salvucci and Margherita Granbassi: just some of the many famous people who were invited to this prestigious event, all actors and guests at the “RomaFictionFest 2009″, the festival dedicated to international television fiction supported by Lancia with a fleet of 50 cars that accompanied the stars on the Orange Carpet and also with a contribution to the “Serial” section of the Festival, the most representative part of the show.

A night of music and entertainment as alluded to by the title “Satis…Fiction Night” – joining the glamour, elegant and exclusive world of fiction with “satisfaction” understood as “knowing how to live” Lancia – that features as main character also an Ypsilon ECOCHIC in the stunning location of Fregene. This model, together with the Lancia Musa, makes up the new ECOCHIC range: cars with a dual fuel supply (LPG and petrol) that represent an innovative concept of “environmentally-friendly” cars because they are luxurious, yet accessible, spacious, but at the same time compact, lively but fuel efficient.

• July 22, 2009 -- Love at first sight between Elle Macpherson and the Fiat 500C
• July 11, 2009 -- The new Fiat Sedici is the official car of the Juventus training camp
• July 2, 2009 -- Europe celebrates the Fiat 500’s birthday
• April 30, 2009 -- Delta: the difference between Angels and Demons. A film, an ad.

Having made its international public debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March, the new Fiat 500 C, a convertible version of the iconic Fiat 500, goes on sale in the UK on Thursday 2 July – with the UK being the first market in the world to receive the vehicle.

The stylish new Fiat 500 C pays homage to the original 1957 fabric roof Fiat 500, but today’s thoroughly modern interpretation offers customers innovative solutions in terms of mechanical design, engines and comfort.

The Fiat 500 C’s introduction is thus absolutely in line with the authentic Fiat tradition of giving customers access to segment firsts in terms of content and technology, and comes just 18 months after the UK launch of the Fiat 500.

Fiat’s Centro Stile created the 500 C by interacting with the many international communities of Cinquecento enthusiasts – notably the 500 Wants You website – thus reinforcing the position of the model as a car for the people, by the people.

Starting from the basis of the highly successful hatchback, the introduction of a soft top version does not change the winning characteristics of the model, such as its four comfortable seats and its comprehensive safety equipment, but it does add new functions that heighten enjoyment, including easy access to the boot even when the soft top is fully open, thanks to a clever system of parallelogram hinges.

Another strong point of this original convertible version is its exceptional climate and acoustic comfort. Thorough aerodynamic research means that turbulence experienced on the move with the roof open has been reduced to a minimum, allowing full enjoyment of fresh air and the company of fellow passengers.

The decision to re-interpret the original design in a modern idiom, with an electric sliding roof that retains the shape of this classic vehicle, makes the Fiat 500 C less of a seasonal product and one that can be enjoyed the whole year round. In short, all these features make this new vehicle one of the most successful convertibles in the modern city car segment.

The Fiat 500 C soft top stands out for its elegant electrically controlled movements and its impressively finished and carefully selected technical features, from the glass rear window to the third brake light built into the soft top itself. Available in three colours (ivory, red and black), the clever soft top is matched with various paint finishes, including three new creations: a pearlescent Ragamuffin Red, a Tech House Grey typical of high performance supercars, and Goth-Metal Blue.

The new Fiat 500 C has an exclusive feel to its interior, which is embellished with top quality desirable fabrics, including optional Frau leather upholstery, and a long list of market-dependent standard and optional features: from automatic climate control to its innovative Interscope HiFi System, from the Blue&Me Map portable navigation unit to a smart wind-stop, and a new collection of customisable options.

New Fiat 500 C retains the same dimensions as the hatchback (355 cm long, 165 cm wide and 149 cm high) and shares all three of its lively, economical, low emissions power units: the 75 bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel engine combined with a five-speed manual gearbox, together with the 69 bhp 1.2 litre and 100 bhp 1.4 litre petrol engines, both available with manual or Dualogic semi-automatic robotised gearboxes. Each Euro5-compliant engine offers different qualities, but all three are defined by a lively yet sophisticated feel.

The commercial launch of Fiat’s latest convertible ensures that the Fiat 500 continues to be much discussed, and confirms its status as an Italian style icon, able to win over the public and critics worldwide. Clear evidence of its success are the 30 awards it has won worldwide, the 11 million internet users who have visited its website (viewing a total of 200 million pages) and more than 360,000 customer orders for the vehicle received in the 59 markets where it is now on sale.

This is all the more impressive when it’s appreciated that more than half this vehicle’s sales have been recorded outside Italy, (50 per cent elsewhere in Europe and 8 per cent in the rest of the world). In each country where it has been launched, the Fiat 500 has generated enormous interest: in Japan, for example, there have been more than 5,000 orders. It should also be recognised that 80 per cent of Fiat 500 customers select the most expensive features and 90 per cent ask for the Blue&Me system.

In short, as an expression of Italy’s pre-eminent automotive design, the Fiat 500 is not merely a super-compact city car, but a real platform upon which Fiat Group Automobiles is building a whole family of cars with advanced technology and great attention to detail. The new Fiat 500 C represents another step forward in this direction.

Alluring shape and innovative design

“The Fiat 500 C is not merely the open version of the 500,” explains Roberto Giolito, Fiat & Abarth Style Director. “In fact, thanks to the wide range of available versions, this new model is really a whole new car in its own right, with a strong personality inherited from the original 1957 model and an undoubted
sentimental value brought to it by so many fans over the years. If, on the one hand, the Fiat 500 C respects the original version, on the other it enriches it with new features which, thanks to stylistic choices, afford each one of us maximum freedom of use.”

The Fiat 500 C uses a deeper windscreen than the Fiat 500. This is needed to resize the upper cross member; and affords a better view for the rear passengers, increases torsional rigidity and facilitates clean lines. These are also enhanced by the continuity of the windscreen, which extends to the fabric roof without exposing any part of the bodywork (an elegant and technologically sophisticated solution in keeping with the spirit of the 500 C).

If the soft top is down and the boot release is activated, an electronic system automatically lifts the hood a few centimetres to allow the boot to be fully opened. This functional and neat solution contributes to the fact that the Fiat 500 C is best in class for ease and versatility of loading and unloading. The luggage compartment itself, (with a capacity of 182 litres – just three litres less than the saloon version), together with a traditional upwards-opening boot and wide access, is spacious and easy to load.

The soft top is available in three colours (ivory, red and black) to match the numerous body colours (six pastel, three metallic and two pearlescent). Some of these are inspired by the vintage colours of its forerunner, while others are modern and boast a deliberately contemporary look. Among these, three were created specifically for the Fiat 500 C: pearlescent Ragamuffin Red, Tech House Grey (typical of high performance supercars) and elegant Goth-Metal Blue.

The interior of the Fiat 500 C boasts top quality materials. In particular, the new sporty seats are upholstered in a high quality durable fabric. The backrest and cushions of the rear seats keep passengers well located. As an option, the interior of the Fiat 500 C can be upholstered in black, beige or red Frau leather.

An innovative soft top for a unique style

The Fiat 500 C soft top is characterised by sophisticated electrically controlled movements and innovative technical solutions. In particular, a colour-coded moulding of the same colour as the soft top acts as a spoiler and houses a third brake light, creating similar aerodynamics to the saloon version – a class-leading Cx of 0.33.

In addition, when the soft top is down, the spoiler is arranged so that the third brake light is always visible. The double-layered roof fabric ensures the best possible insulation from the elements, and along with the fabric covered pillars, completes an attractive finish from the inside.

The electrically operated soft top can be controlled either by buttons next to the interior roof light, or from the car’s remote control unit. In addition, the soft top can be operated at any speed under 37 mph (60 km/h).

The soft top is designed to be easy to use: to open it, just press the button for at least half a second to trigger the movement that then continues automatically up to the spoiler position (a midway point can of course be chosen by pressing the button again). Press the button again for at least half-a-second to fully open the roof. When using the remote control, the roof can be opened only as far as the spoiler. For safety reasons, the roof stops at around 25 cm from complete closure; (just press and hold the button to complete the movement).

When the boot is open, the soft top can only be closed (the opening function is de-activated). However, if the roof is fully open and the boot needs to be opened, the soft top automatically moves to a midway point to avoid obstructing loading operations.

Finally, an optional wind-stop can easily be positioned behind the rear headrests (attached to the parcel shelf). This wind tunnel-tested accessory has been designed specifically for the Fiat 500 C. It offers a notable reduction in turbulence for all passengers, at all speeds, and there is no need to remove the wind-stop to open or close the soft top (another unique feature for this vehicle segment).

Environmentally friendly engines

The Fiat 500 C offers a comprehensive range of proven, widely acclaimed engines: two are petrol (a 1.2 litre, 69 bhp 8v and a 1.4 litre, 100 bhp 16v). The third is Fiat’s award-winning 1.3 litre, 75 bhp 16v MultiJet turbodiesel with DPF. Each one offers different qualities, but all are combined with five or six speed manual gearboxes. A Dualogic semi-automatic sequential robotised gearbox is also available for the petrol engines, complete with steering wheel paddle shift on the 1.4 version.

All engines boast sophisticated technology, and are characterised by their lively and flexible feel. Among their common qualities are proven reliability and notable respect for the environment. They all conform to tough Euro5 emissions standards, and the 1.3 litre MultiJet diesel is fitted with a diesel particulate filter as standard.

The Fiat 500’s power units are produced by Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT), the division of the Fiat Group that is wholly responsible for the innovation, research, design and production of engines and gearboxes for all types of vehicle: from cars to trucks, boats and agricultural equipment. With around 20,000 employees, 16 factories and 11 research centres across nine countries, this division is one of the most important global players in powertrain manufacturing. At FPT, around 3,000 highly specialised technicians are dedicated to developing and engineering innovative technologies. More than 40 patents filed every year is proof of the quality and seriousness of this commitment, making FPT a centre of excellence for technology and continuous innovation.

Specifically, Fiat’s proven and reliable 1,242 cm3 (1.2) Fire engine develops 69 bhp at 5,500 rpm, and torque of 102 Nm at 3,000 rpm, giving the Fiat 500 C a maximum speed of 99 mph. This 8v engine and manual gearbox in the Fiat 500 C offers outstandingly low fuel consumption of 55.4 mpg in the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km. 0-62 mph acceleration is achieved in 12.9 seconds, a figure that is all the more impressive given the car’s low fuel consumption. Intelligent engine tuning is the key, as the power unit supplies high torque at low engine speeds (maximising driving pleasure and engine flexibility) combined with gear ratios carefully chosen to reduce consumption.

Fiat’s 1.4 litre 16v engine delivers 100 bhp at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 131 Nm at 4,250 rpm. Developed with strong performance and low consumption in mind, this engine puts the Fiat 500 C at the top of its class, with a top speed of 113mph and 0-62 mph acceleration in just 10.5 seconds. Fuel economy is impressive too: in the combined cycle, this version achieves 46.3 mpg (with a manual gearbox). With 100 bhp available, this compact car is capable of lively performance and quick responses in city traffic.

Fiat’s new convertible is also available with a 1.3 litre, 16v MultiJet diesel – the smallest and most advanced second-generation common rail direct injection diesel engine. Equipped with a fixed geometry turbocharger and intercooler, this engine develops 75 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 1,500 rpm. It gives the Fiat 500 C strong performance: a top speed of 103 mph and acceleration from 0-62 mph in 12.5 seconds. Fuel consumption and emissions levels are also among the best in the segment: 67.3 mpg in the combined cycle and 110 g/km of CO2. This compact and technologically sophisticated power unit is also environmentally friendly and comes with a DPF as standard.

Class-leading safety

Structurally derived from the Fiat 500 hatchback (the first car under four metres to receive a five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating), the Fiat 500 C retains all the safety components and features (active and passive) that justifiably place it among the market’s best-in-class.

For example, with seven airbags offered as standard equipment, (two front, two window, two side and one knee bag) the Fiat 500 C is unrivalled in its segment in terms of passive safety. Furthermore, the new car’s stable and efficient braking system combined with its responsive acceleration and reliable handling allows it to emerge unscathed from emergency situations.

The Fiat 500 C uses sophisticated technical solutions to ensure that the driver is in control of the car (active safety): such as ABS anti-lock braking with electronic brake distribution (EBD); an advanced electronic stability program (ESP); anti-slip regulation (ASR), a Hill Holder system – which helps the driver with hill starts – and hydraulic brake assistance (HBA) to help with emergency stops.

Moreover, to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers, the Fiat 500 C has a body designed according to the latest crash resistance criteria. This is the first super-compact car equipped with a front-end structure specifically designed to improve inter-vehicle compatibility in head-on collisions, with a rigid cabin to protect the occupants and high-absorption zones on the outside.

All four seat belts are three-point type – while both front belts have dual pretensioners and load limiters. The front and rear seats are equipped with an anti-submarining system that stops the wearer from sliding underneath the seatbelt during an impact. Isofix attachments for child car seats are fitted as standard across the range.

The Fiat 500 C also boasts modern and sophisticated components for preventive safety, especially when visibility is reduced; for example, at night or when in a tunnel. Thus, the Fiat 500 C is the first in its segment to offer, as an option, Xenon headlights with dipping and full-beam functions for better visibility and excellent light output in all weather conditions. The filaments of conventional gas-discharge bulbs have been replaced in Xenon units by two electrodes – just a few millimetres apart – that generate an electro-voltaic discharge in an atmosphere of low-pressure Xenon. Made by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, these bulbs give three times the light intensity and duration of standard halogen bulbs.

The Fiat 500 C has all the dynamic and comfort features that allow users to embark comfortably and safely on any journey. The suspension system plays a fundamental role in this: front suspension is provided by independent MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension is semi-independent with a torsion beam axle. The semi-independent torsion-axle rear suspension system also features an anti-roll bar derived from the Abarth 500 to improve handling and comfort.

Standard and optional features

Customers have every opportunity to create a Fiat 500 C that best suits their individual preferences, thanks to an extensive range distinguished by 11 paint finishes, two equipment versions (Lounge and Pop) and three interior trims with different fabrics or leather, as well as over 100 accessory combinations created specially for the 500.

The UK range starts with the Pop version, which has a comprehensive standard equipment specification. In terms of safety, for example, there are seven airbags (two at the front, two window bags, two at the side and one to protect the knees), ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD and headlights with DRL (daytime running lights) function. The new 500 C Pop is available with all three engine configurations, and the 1.4-litre, 100 HP 16v engine also includes as standard the sophisticated ESP system and a sporty instrument panel.

For maximum comfort, the Fiat 500 C Pop offers the most advanced features on the market today: Dualdrive electric power steering, manual climate control, radio/CD/MP3 player, height-adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable front seat, central locking and electric windows, ignition key with customisable remote control, and an ‘active’ boot handle.

The Lounge version stands out for its Chrome kit, which includes chrome trim on the side windows, exhaust tail pipe, the interior door handle inserts, gear lever and the front and rear bumpers. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, ESP, fog lights and parking sensors. The 185/55 R15 alloy wheels and electric wing mirrors painted to match the body also come as standard.

Xenon headlights with integrated headlamp washers, Frau leather interior, leather gear knob, Hi-Fi Interscope sound system and special 16-inch spoked alloy wheels are options on both Pop and Lounge versions.

Customers can also choose an important item of equipment developed in partnership with Magneti Marelli: the multifunctional portable navigation system Blue&Me MAP, while every Fiat 500 C is eco:Drive enabled.

Always looking to make the most sophisticated technology available to all, the Fiat 500 C has an innovative Interscope Hi-Fi system, which was designed and created specifically for the Fiat 500 and comes with a radio/CD/MP3 player. The Interscope Hi-Fi system is unique in the way it simultaneously uses three different signal processing methods to produce evocative in-car sound.

Lastly, to make each convertible unique, a new collection of Fiat 500 customisations is available. Noticeable for its attention to graphic detail, the new range is fresh in terms of original designs and the choice of a chrome finish. There is new sticker creativity, and fresh ideas for the car interior too: there are recreational items, such as the blackboard-style panel on the dashboard, but also everyday items, such as a make-up holder. In addition, the key fob lights up and can be further embellished with a key cover made from crystallised Swarovski elements.

• August 24, 2009 -- The New Maserati GranCabrio to premiere in Frankfurt
• June 29, 2009 -- Fiat 500C: much more than a “window to the sky”
• June 17, 2009 -- 2009 Edo Competition Ferrari California
• May 25, 2009 -- New pics in Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder gallery

The new Fiat 500 was launched in unforgettable style on 4 July 2007. Since then, the second generation of the model that has symbolised the history of Italian cars has quickly conquered everyone’s hearts. On July 4, alongside the launch of the Fiat 500C, the model will mark its second birthday with a series of events, running until July 7, which will involve the major European cities and five customised Fiat locations up and down Italy.

In Italy, the celebrations get under way tomorrow through a unique initiative in partnership with Rai. The Rai Uno, Rai Due and Rai Tre channels will simultaneously and frequently broadcast a special collection of short films, old clips and sketches dedicated to the Fiat 500. The television event will end during prime time on Rai Uno with a special edition of “Porta a Porta”, entitled “50 years of a winning Italy”. The show will cover half a century of Italian style, of which the Fiat 500 is certainly among the most loved and established symbols in the world.

Hosted by Bruno Vespa and Milly Carlucci, and broadcasting live from Rome, L’Aquila and Turin, this one-off programme will have one unique feature: the guests will not come on stage through the show’s famous door, but will instead arrive at the studio in a Fiat 500. Among the many prestigious guests representing Italian creativity will be Luca Cordero di Montezemolo and John Elkann, chairman and vice-chairman respectively of the Fiat Group, while the CEO of Fiat Automobiles, Lorenzo Sistino, will discuss via a live link to the Lingotto rooftop test track in Turin the journey from the glorious history of the Fiat 500 to the arrival of the new 500C.

Also tomorrow, in Naples, the Voga Club will unveil the Fiat Open Lounge, which will host the brand new 500C throughout the long Neapolitan summer. The Lounge will open just in time to toast the second birthday of the new Fiat 500 at the stroke of midnight. In Rome’s Sofia, a new nightclub located near the Foro Italico sports complex, the Fiat 500 will be celebrated in the new Fiat Open Lounge on the night of July 3. In addition, from Saturday 4 July, the 500C will be a permanent guest at the club and sponsor all the events scheduled at the striking location throughout the summer.

On July 4 at Milan’s modern and trendy Fiat Open Lounge, there will be an exclusive party in the presence of the 500C allowing revellers to celebrate by dancing to renowned DJs from the Italian club scene. Also, on the evening of July 4 the Fiat Playa at Punta Marana, in Sardinia, will host the Oscar del Calcio football awards in the presence of some of the sport’s leading lights. During the reception for this event, the guests will celebrate the second birthday of the new Fiat 500 (as well as the new 500C) by cutting a special cake. Finally, on July 5 at the Fiat Chalet in Madonna di Campiglio, one of the most stylish and well-kept ski resorts in north-east Italy, there will be an exclusive party for 500 guests. Obviously, the 500C will be among their number.

The party for the 500 will also take place in Paris, where from July 2-7 a 17-metre-long, 6-metre-tall model of the car can be seen at La Défense, one of the most enchanting and modern parts of the French capital. Inside this huge 500, whose interior has been built to scale, you can admire a dramatic starry sky created by clever special effects; on the outside, a huge lawn will welcome the new 500Cs that will themselves become part of the show with events such as the “Smile & Win” competition, with the prize of a fabulous weekend in a 500C for the best smile captured on board the new car. The events in Paris will be the first of three stages that will also take the huge” 500one” to London at the end of August and Berlin at the end of September.

Finally, “flash mobs” will be organised in some of Europe’s biggest cities: in each location, around 30 actors will blend into the crowd and start to sing “Happy Birthday 500!” when a Fiat 500 (or a 500C in Italy) appears.

• July 22, 2009 -- Love at first sight between Elle Macpherson and the Fiat 500C
• July 11, 2009 -- The new Fiat Sedici is the official car of the Juventus training camp
• July 11, 2009 -- George Clooney with Lancia for L’Aquila, an evening in Fregene for the RomaFictionFest
• April 30, 2009 -- Delta: the difference between Angels and Demons. A film, an ad.

From Gooichi Motorsports / DucCutters, here’s a modded 2003 Ducati 749. ‘I can never leave anything stock, and one thing led to another. I wanted to do something different with the bike, something that would make Ducati purists cringe,’ says the Gooichi 749’s owner. So, of course, the bike was lowered, fitted with a stretched swingarm, custom-built exhaust, spoked wheels, aftermarket rear shock and… the list just goes on and on.

‘I wanted to go for an old school look, so we sprayed it hot rod black with solid red flake scallops, equipped with red and white pin stripes all around. I also designed a nice air ride kit for it, along with some carbon pieces and custom side-mount exhaust,’ says the bike’s owner. ‘For some this would be enough, but when things snowball around here, it never stops! I ended up making a one-off, 14 over aluminium tubular swingarm to house a custom fat spoked rim. We went with ‘Ride Wright Fat 50’ 18-inch wheels, with a 300 in the back, chrome spokes with black rims,’ he adds.

2009 Ducati Gooichi 749

• July 1, 2009 -- Ducati announces the inaugural “Ducs Fly South” Track Day
• June 3, 2009 -- 2009 Novitec Alfa Romeo MiTo
• May 19, 2009 -- Ferrari F430 “CALAVERA” by Unique Sportcars and Novitec Rosso
• March 18, 2009 -- 500 Assetto Corse on the starting line