Meet the 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

Our first impression is that Fiat/Chrysler is making a smart bet here.

A

non-Abarth turbo version of the Fiat 500 was probably inevitable, and now it's a reality.

Aimed at finding what Fiat calls the "sweet spot" between the hot-rod Abarth and the more-mainstream 500s, this new 500 will be priced at $19,500 to start, not including the $700 destination charge.

2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

With 135 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, the Turbo certainly splits the difference, power-wise, between the 101 horsepower base engine and the 160 horse turbo in the Abarth.

Sport-tuned suspension bits and a sport-themed interior are part of the package, as are beefed-up brakes. The exterior gets some sportier touches, as well, particularly regarding the front fascia and the side sills.

Our first impression is that Fiat/Chrysler is making a smart bet here. The current base 500 feels relatively sprightly, thanks to its diminutive size, but adding more power doesn't hurt. And our biggest beef with the Abarth is that it's a blast to drive, but not a great commuter car. The Turbo might solve both problems by offering a more powerful, sportier 500 that doesn't require the buyer to sacrifice comfort for performance.

We'll know more once we drive it, but we're encouraged with the idea.

[Source: Fiat]