BRITISH drivers will be the first in the world to get behind the wheel of the new convertible version of the Fiat 500 when it arrives here this summer - even before going on sale in its native Italy.
It will cost from £11,300 and there will be a range-topping Multijet Lounge version at £14,100 with a more comprehensive equipment list that includes automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, stability control and alloy wheels.
Only the Pop and Lounge versions will be available initially with an electrically operated hood, air conditioning, remote central locking, radio/CD/MP3 player, seven airbags and electric door mirrors.
Blue&Me, Fiat's hands-free entertainment, information and communications system along with eco:Drive, the computer technology that monitors a driver's style and gives tips on how to save fuel and reduce emissions are also standard on Lounge versions.
Available in 11 body colours including the newly-created Tech House Grey and RaggaMuffin Red, the convertible also comes with red, ivory or black roof colours. Leather is an optional extra for the interior.
The Fiat 500 C is powered by the same engines as those of the standard Fiat 500 including 69bhp 1.2-litre and 100bhp 1.4-litre petrol units and the 75bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel.
There is a choice of manual or automatic transmissions and a Start&Stop system will also be on offer.
Other prices are £12,500 for the 1.4 Pop, £12,700 for the 1.3 Multijet Pop, £12,700 for the 1.2 Lounge and £13,900 for the 1.4 Lounge.