New Fiat 500 gets 64bhp hybrid set-up, manual ’box, fresh look

Petrol-powered city car will finally enter a new generation after 18 years, using electric 500e underpinnings

The new Fiat 500 will arrive in the UK next summer with a 64bhp hybrid powertrain.
Sold alongside the visually identical 500e EV, the new 500 Hybrid will be offered in both hatch and convertible forms, like its predecessor. 
At the heart of the Hybrid is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine and 12V battery – a similar set-up to the previous car’s but downrated by 5bhp. In the new model, the power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
With just 64bhp on tap, the new 500 Hybrid hatch needs 16.2sec to reach 62mph from standing and the convertible takes 17.3sec . Top speed is rated at 96mph. 
The new 500 has a claimed fuel economy of 53mpg, similar to the car it replaces. Fiat says it has been designed for “efficient, urban motoring”.
The new hybrid model is otherwise very different from its predecessor because it uses the same platform as the 500e.
The move t