More than half a century ago, in 1957, the Fiat Cinquecento (500) helped put Italy on four wheels. In the process, the 500 sold almost four million units before Fiat ended production in 1975. Then, 29 years later at the 2004 Geneva Auto Show, Fiat previewed what would become the Nuova 500, the Trepiuno Concept (see design sidebar starting on the following page). Today, less than two years after forging a trans-Atlantic partnership with Chrysler, Fiat is reintroducing its brand to North America with the 500, a thoroughly reworked version of Europe's most popular city car.

The Americanized 500, built in the former PT Cruiser plant in Toluca, Mexico, started with good bones. The team of Fiat and Chrysler engineers then upgraded its chassis and safety structure, engineered a new twist-beam rear axle, and--most important for American tastes--added a six-speed automatic transmission option, in addition to five- and six-speed manual transmissions. The result is a stylish, economical car that is sure to find favor with the 50,000 customers that Fiat believes will visit its 130 North American showrooms, located