2012 Fiat 500C: Start spreading the news?

This convertible version of the little Fiat 500 is already offered on several European markets. And now, rumour has it that an American version will be introduced to the public next month at the New York Auto Show.

The Fiat 500C features a slide-back ragtop for optimal enjoyment of those beautiful summer days – which are all too few here in Canada.

In order to meet American safety standards, which are among the most stringent in the world, the engineers at Fiat had to modify the structure along with a number of the car’s geometric aspects, including the suspensions. They also had to better insulate the car and reduce the different types of vibrations that convertibles like this are prone to.

Same engine as the coupe

It comes as no surprise that the Fiat 500C has the same engine as the new Fiat 500 that has recently rolled into dealerships. Thus, it features a 1.4-litre four-cylinder MultiAir engine that develops 100 horsepower and 97 lbs-ft of torque. This engine can be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic.

And, as luck would have it, this cabriolet version of the Fiat 500 will be available in North America just in time for summer...