Fiat fits Start/Stop system in its 500

The Start&Stop system, which is fitted to the 500's 1.2-litre petrol engine, automatically turns the engine off when the vehicle comes to a stop and the driver puts the car in neutral. The engine automatically restarts the moment the driver depresses the clutch pedal to select a gear to move off.

In comparison to standard 1.2 models without Start&Stop, the system improves fuel consumption from 18.75 km/l to 21.09 km/l in urban driving conditions and from 23.55 km/l to 25.04 km/l on the official combined cycle. CO2 emissions are reduced by 6 g/km to 113 g/km.

The 500 also features Fiat's eco:Drive system, which can advise drivers on ways to change their driving style that will improve fuel economy.

Standard equipment on the 500 1.2 Start&Stop includes eco:Drive and Bluetooth connectivity, radio/CD with MP3 compatibility, remote central locking, air-conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel with remote audio controls plus front, side and knee airbags.