AS with any motor show, there are always some cars that immediately stand out or those that get little more than just a quick glance.
There’s no doubt that firmly entrenched into the first category at the Geneva Motor Show was the Fiat 500 Coupé Zagato, a fabulous-looking design study created by the famous auto design studio in colaboration with Fiat’s own in-house Centro Stile.
In the metal, this prototype screams speed with its sporty shape inspired by its namesake predecessor built in the 1950s by the same Italian bodyworker on the chassis of the original 500.
Yet while Zagato had then totally redesigned the exterior into a stylish, sleek and low coupé, today the designers have retained much of the silhouette of the Fiat 500, but giving it an more aggressive appeal.
In addition, the unique shape of the roof features the characteristic “double hump”, the true emblem of Zagato, yet lowering the car while retaining the 500’s interior comfort.
Like many historic custom-built cars, the concept affords the classic 2+2 seater formula while retaining the compact dimensions of the basic model.
Under the bonnet sits Fiat’s brand new TwinAir 105 bhp engine to maximise the “fun to drive” ethos of the car, while ensuring, consistently with the downsizing philosophy, excellent performance levels against a considerable reduction in fuel consumption and emission levels.
The 105bhp 900cc TwinAir two cylinder engine – which has never been used on any of the group’s models as yet – is the ideal choice for compact sized sporty cars with its high torque delivery and at 124bhp/litre, is also one of the world leaders in specific power.
All while ensuring reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions unrivalled in this category at 95g/km.
Designed for a young and dynamic male audience, the 500 Coupé Zagato also fulfills the needs of a female target, with the use of stylistic materials and colour schemes
The exterior styling can also be found inside, with its traditional sporty “diamond” seats and high-tech fabric, teamed with yellow chamois leather and the black natural leather of the surrounds which give it a young, contemporary look.
The decidedly sporty appearance can also be found on the steering wheel – also trimmed in leather with contrasting stitching the same colour as the yellow chamois leather grips – and on the dashboard surround, matching the exterior colour, which was treated in burnished “eco-chrome” for a somewhat aggressive appeal.
To compliment the car’s sporty personality, the 500 Coupé Zagato features burnished chrome exterior elements, 17-inch chrome shadow wheels fitted with 205/40 R17 tyres and perforated brake discs all round.
A car of stunning appeal, this prototype is consistent with Fiat's history and mission to make cars distinguished by an original style, advanced technology made accessible to all and intelligent solutions that simplify and improve life on-board.
Just like the basic model, the 500 Coupé Zagato features my-port, the practical multimedia sat nav system which allows those on board to link up to the world through the Internet via the latest-generation smartphones.
It certainly would be a great pity should Fiat’s management fail to give the nod for at least a limited production run of this wee cracker.