Fiat 500 hatchback: great buy if you want a stylish retro-looking city car

Price: £10,420 - £16,070

Pros: Trendy retro looks, easy to drive, surprisingly roomy

Cons: Basic entry models, poor real-world economy, pricey special editions

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3.6/5, Carbuyer "Despite sharing so many parts, the 500 is completely different to the Panda and Ka. Its chic looks means it's the perfect car for the city, but it doesn’t offer the practicality of the Panda. The basic 500 line-up comprises Pop, Colour Therapy, Lounge and S models, but they are joined by a roster of special editions such as Cult, BiColour and GQ, all offering their own take on the 500 formula. The entry-level Pop is rather basic, while Colour Therapy adds funky colour schemes and white detailing inside and out. Our top choice is the Lounge model, which provides a glass roof and air-con. Fiat offers a long list of extras and personalisation options, including new wheels, extra chrome trim, interior upgrades and racy stickers. But tread carefully – funky colour schemes and graphics could harm the car's value when you come to sell."

4.2/5, Auto Express "What's surprising is that although the engine note is unfamiliar, the refinement is impressive. Thanks to a balancer shaft which counterweights the action of the cylinders, vibrations are well isolated. Were it not for the characterful soundtrack, the unit feels similar to an equivalent 1.4-litre four-cylinder unit.The icing on the cake is fuel economy of nearly 70mpg and thanks to CO2 emissions of just 95g/km, owners taking delivery later this year will be able to enjoy road tax-free motoring."

15.0/5, Top Gear "Modern pastiche of arguably Fiat's most iconic city car. Sassy looks wear thin in a downpour on the A40, but it's great to drive and staggering value. Unlike the Mini."

3.0/5, What Car? "The 500 has cute looks, price and desirability on its side; pity it isn't better to drive."

4.0/5, Parker's "Easy to drive and available with a host of customisation options, the little Fiat is a stylish small car with plenty of characterful."