The Chrysler Group's Italian daddy plans to use next week's Geneva Motor Show to unveil the 2010 Fiat 500 by Diesel, a special edition model done in partnership with the Italian clothing company. The new model year introduces Fiat's second-generation 1.3-liter Mutlijet diesel engine and a special "Midnight Indigo" dark-blue body finish that gives the impression of an iridescent color.
The new diesel unit features a variable geometry turbocharger delivering an output of 95 horsepower at 4,000rpm and 200Nm or 148 lb-ft of torque at 1,500rpm.
With this engine, the 500 mini accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in 10.7 seconds and tops out at 181km/h or 112mph, while returning a combined 3.9 lt/100km or 60.2mpg US in the combined European cycle.
The 500 by Diesel continues to be available with the 69HP 1.2-liter and 100HP 1.4-liter petrols as well as a 75HP 1.3 Multijet turbo diesel.
Fiat said that from 10,000 units of the "500 by Diesel" it plans to produce, almost 6,000 cars have already been sold or spoken for.
Among the special features that distinguish the Diesel version from the rest of the range, are the unique 16-inhc alloy wheels, "Diesel" logos and special body trim in a matte silver finish that includes faux air vents at the back. Inside the seats are upholstered in a dark denim style fabric with yellow stitching while there's also a specific satin chrome colored dashboard.
