Speaking at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, Laura Soave, manager of the Fiat brand in North Americ, said: 'The Fiat 500 has always been the right car at the right time. With the new Fiat 500 a truly exclusive car in one of the most rapidly growing segments in North America is being introduced. It offers prestigious Italian design, value and efficiency, all smartly calibrated for our market.'

'Like the historic model, the new Fiat 500 redefines the concept of transportation and gives a new sense to expression and individual opportunities,' Ms Soave added. 'At a time when America is returning to simplicity with renewed attention focussed on the environment, the new car identifies with the current minimalist bent and offers an advanced and eco-sustainable technology enveloped by an aura of top quality, precision and style.'

The Fiat 500 will be produced in Mexico and sold at a proposed starting price of $15,500. The range offers three trim levels (Pop, Sport and Lounge), one engine type (101 HP 1.4 MultiAir), 14 exterior colours (metallic, pastel colours and with pearly triple-coat finishes), 14 colour combinations and materials for the seats, two interiors (black or ivory) and a complete line of exclusive accessories made by Mopar to further customise one's car.

Fiat will also be offering the Blue&Me Tom-Tom multifunctional portable navigation system, which features the free eco:Drive software application that collects the journey data through the Blue&Me interface of the car and analyses them to give the user handy personalised tips to cut travel costs and the environmental impact of their driving style.