Five Excuses to Buy A FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio

Ever caught yourself daydreaming about the FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio? Keep these rebuttals on hand for the next time someone attempts to talk you out of fulfilling your fantasy of going topless in a 2013 FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio.

1) Because my personal life could use some action. The envious looks that emanate from both drivers and pedestrians as you cruise by in your Abarth Cabrio validate the perceived attractiveness and stinging power of the Scorpion. This drop-top is designed to drop jaws. Just as scorpions attract mates with vibrational communication, the humming from the Abarth’s signature performance-tuned dual exhausts will draw the attention of admirers.  Feel the power of the roar for yourself in the clip below.

The stylish characteristics of the Abarth Cabrio are sure to have multiple suitors vying for a ride in your passenger seat. The elegance and comfort of the ride will cause endorphins to enter the bloodstream, where they’ll combine with adrenaline from the intense acceleration. Euphoria meets exhilaration.

2) Because I won’t have to sacrifice practicality. The Abarth Cabrio is a convertible of a different sort that brings about a carefree feeling, a panorama of the landscape impossible with the top on. The unique power roll-top retains more of its structural rigidity compared to traditional convertibles for year-round practicality. You’ll actually be able to raise and lower the roof at up to 60 mph, which is an advantage over other ragtops, whose drivers would typically have to stop their vehicles completely for open-air driving excitement.

The power-operated cloth top was intelligently designed to retract to the rear-spoiler position to avoid any obstruction. A middle position that retracts the top above the front passengers can be activated at any time regardless of speed. Headroom is optimized in the Abarth Cabrio, with 38.6 inches of front headroom with the top secured. However, we highly recommend going topless for the definitive stretch.

3) Because I’ll be the torque of the town. Whether you want to take a relaxed drive along the coast or feel the power of the track the Abarth Cabrio can accommodate a diverse mix of driving scenarios.  For a more aggressive drive a standard-equipped “Sport” mode calibration can be prompted with the touch of a button. Unleash the full power of the 1.4-liter MultiAir^® Turbo in Sport mode, for an increase in torque from 150 ft.-lb. to 170 ft.-lb. With the touch of a button you can change the throttle mapping and add heft to the column-assist electric power steering. When Sport mode is not engaged, the Abarth Cabrio returns to “Normal” mode and limits the torque in first and second gears to help enhance fuel efficiency.

4) Because I will never miss out on my daily dose of Vitamin D.

Your body makes essential vitamin D when it’s exposed to ultraviolet B-rays given off by the sun. And when, exactly, was the last time you were in the sun? If your daily routine includes spending eight or so hours in the office just to drive home and repeat the next day, that’s precious little time spent in the sun. Sure, you could take a vitamin every day, but then you’d be denying yourself the joy of open-air motoring. Savor the commute and get a better suntan when cruising around the city streets in your Abarth Cabrio.

5) Because higher knowledge comes standard. Included with each 2013 FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience at no additional charge. The Abarth Driving Experience is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.

When it comes time to purchase your new Abarth Cabrio, which excuse will you use? Tell us in the comments below!

http://blog.fiatusa.com/vehicles/excuses-to-buy-a-2013-fiat-500-abarth-cabrio/

One-of-a-Kind Print Ad Incorporates More Than a Dozen Artists/Performers/Models to Recreate Image of Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio

Think you and your friends could pull this off if you got your hands on the right paint?



July 10, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FIAT Brand North America unveils a one-of-a-kind print ad this week when it debuts “Body Paint” in this year’s annual ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue. The visually stunning print ad features more than a dozen female artists, models and contortionists to recreate the image of a Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio. The annual edition of ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue (07/22) will be on newsstands starting Wed., July 10. 

“‘Body Paint’ allowed us to take part in a unique collaboration with a multinational sports company that connects the FIAT brand with sports and car enthusiasts across the globe,” said Olivier Francois, Chief Marketing Officer, Chrysler Group LLC, and Fiat Group Automobiles Head of Fiat Brand.

“Our ideal execution is when a client creates an ad that works so well within the context of our environment,” said Eric Johnson, ESPN executive vice president, multimedia sales. “Not only is this a creative win, it thematically ties in perfectly with ESPN The Magazine’s annual Body Issue.”

"We wanted to create a concept for ESPN The Magazine's Body Issue that was as visually unique as the Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio," said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America. "The notion of the 'Body Paint' print ad conveying athletic grace in a magazine that specifically devotes itself to covering athletes around the world sparked a perfect union for the FIAT Brand." 

Exclusive behind-the-scenes video of the making of the “Body Paint” print ad can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKe02Fq-Yzk

What do you think of the ad? Let us know by leaving a comment below! 
http://media.chrysler.com/newsrelease.do?id=14547&mid=279

10 Things You Should Always Do Before Taking Your Car On A Long Trip

Friday marked the first official day of Summer 2013! Are you planning on driving down to the beach for a summer vacation? We put together this list of 10 things you should always do before taking your car on a long trip. Check it out and share with your friends!

1. Check your engine oil. Better safe than sorry!
2. Check windshield washer fluid level. The beach is loaded with seagulls and lots of other birds... never know when they're going to welcome you with a present on your windshield.
3. Check condition of windshield wiper blades. Nothing worse than pesky streaks all over the place!
4. Check the tire inflation pressures and look for unusual wear or damage. A flat tire won’t get you very far.
5. Check the condition of your spare tire and make sure the tire has air in it and you have all necessary tools required to change the tire if needed. What good is a spare tire... if the spare doesn't have air either?
6. Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder reservoir, and transmission as needed. Being pulled over on the side of the road with a smoking engine probably isn’t how you’d like to start your vacation.
7. Check function of all interior and exterior lights. Can't read a map if your map light is burned out!
8. If you’re using a navigation system (“GPS”), check to make sure you have the most recent maps updated to your device. Because listening to your navigation system blurt out "RECALCULATING" every few minutes gets old.
9. Make sure your inspection, insurance, drivers' license, and registration are all up to date. “My dog ate my updated insurance card” usually doesn’t go over well, or get you out of a ticket.
10. Every state’s traffic laws are different, so if you’re traveling over state lines, make sure you’re familiar with the other state’s traffic laws. 

Anything we forgot? Have any stories from a time when you forgot to check one of the things on our list before a long trip and ended up with a problem? Share in the comment box below!

Most importantly, ENJOY YOUR TRIP! And if you’re driving your FIAT, send us some pictures! 

"You see a FIAT... you flick someone!" Check out our new FIAT Flick Video!

Our new FIAT Flick Commercial has over 1,500 views on YouTube already! Footage was filmed all over the Lehigh Valley. For behind the scenes footage and to participate in our FIAT Flick Social Media Contest by submitting your own FIAT Flick videos and photos, visit www.FIATFlick.com
Check it out and let us know what you think! Leave a comment in the section below!

What Does the Color of Your FIAT 500 Say About You?

We love FIAT USA's most recent blog post! With so many colors to choose from, 15 to be exact, its always interesting to see what color FIAT 500 our customers choose.
Find out what the color of your FIAT 500 says about you (according to FIAT USA) below:
Verde Azzurro (Blue Green): You are poised and confident, and are seen as faithful and credible.

Rosso Brillante (Red Tri-Coat): You are a showstopper — a fashionable individual who captivates the attention of passers-by.

Rosso (Red):  Your outgoing personality ignites passion — and as a result, you are full of life.

Rame (Copper): You are a complex individual who is both creative and charming.

Nero (Black):  You embody authority and power.

Luce Blue (Light Blue): You are a refined individual who finds peace and energy from within.

Grigio (Grey): You exemplify sophistication and confidence in your everyday life.

Gallio (Yellow): Your sunny disposition shows that you are young at heart.

Espresso (Brown): With both feet planted firmly on the ground, you are honest, down-to-earth and wholesome.

Bianco Perla (Pearly White Tri-Coat):  You are calm, cool and collected.

Bianco (White): You are a simple soul who values order and prefers organization when it comes to your car.  It is not in your temperament to appear sloppy or unkempt.

Azzurro (Blue):  You tend to be loyal and methodical.

Argento (Silver):  Your standards are high, and you appreciate elegance with a bit of flash.

Verde Oliva (Olive Green): You are a natural peacemaker.

Verde Chiaro (Light Green): You are conscientious and consider the cause and effect of everything you do.

Do you feel that the color of your FIAT 500 accurately speaks to your unique personality? Compare your answers with those of other FIAT fans in the comments below!

http://blog.fiatusa.com/vehicles/the-fiat-500-color-wheel/

FIAT 500 Scores 30 Points Above the Average Total Quality Index Score!

The FIAT 500 Hatchback scores THIRTY POINTS above the Small Car Segment's Average Total Quality Index score of 850, ranking second in the entire category! The FIAT 500 earned an impressive Total Quality Index score of 880, just four points behind the first place Dodge Dart. Yet another reason to love the FIAT 500!
http://www.strategicvision.com/auto_segmentwinners.php?year=2013&award=TQA&seg=18

Don't Miss the Fun On Saturday At Our Test Drive Extravaganza!

Don't miss our Test Drive Extravaganza this Saturday, May 18th, from 11-4:30! There will be food provided by Buca di Beppo, fun, entertainment, and prizes, including a chance to win a brand new iPad Mini! B104 will be providing entertainment and the B104 Bee will also be here in his FIAT!

Fashion Star's FIAT 500 Challenge

If you're a fan of NBC's hit show, Fashion Star, you might have already seen this wildly creative episode, the "FIAT Challenge." The competing designers had to create a look using the FIAT 500 as their inspiration and then orchestrate a photo shoot with the vehicle to showcase their designs. The winning team of two each took home a brand new FIAT 500 Turbo! Creativity at its best. 

May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month!

May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month! To highlight the growing need for awareness about cystic fibrosis (CF), the CF Foundation recognizes the month of May as National CF Awareness Month. This is a cause that FIAT of Lehigh Valley is very passionate about and we're very proud to be able to help raise money and awareness for the CF Foundation. That is why, during the entire month of May, for every LIKE we gain on our Facebook Page, we will donate a dollar to the CF Foundation. The number will be calculated at the end of the day on May 31st, 2013.
http://www.fiatusaoflehighvalley.com/fiat-of-lehigh-valley-s-dollar-per-like-campaign-for-cystic-fibrosis.htm

April Showers Are No Match for the FIAT 500

It's pretty dreary here in Easton, so we figured this post by FIAT USA would be perfect to share with you this morning. 

"Everyone knows that age-old saying “April showers bring May flowers,” but that’s no reason to sit inside and wait for the grass to grow. While you’re waiting for those “May flowers” to arrive, don’t let the stormy weather ruin your day on the road. When it comes to taking on wet and hazardous conditions, the FIAT 500 has you covered. With a wide variety of control features, you’re able to take a drive in your favorite FIAT 500 model regardless of what Mother Nature throws your way."

http://blog.fiatusa.com/vehicles/april-showers-are-no-match-for-the-fiat-500/

"The Fiat 500 Abarth Is Almost As Thrilling As A Ferrari"

We couldn't agree more! The Abarth has always been thrilling in our opinion, which is why we weren't surprised to see this post by Jalopnik boasting that the FIAT 500 Abarth is "almost as thrilling as a Ferrari." Just another reason why the FIAT 500 Abarth should be on your list of vehicles to test drive if you're in the tuner market. "Oh, and the car is described as a filet for the price of a PBJ. That's actually clever."

http://jalopnik.com/the-fiat-500-abarth-is-almost-as-thrilling-as-a-ferrar-483080507

TGIF

 Good morning FIAT fans... and happy Friday!

FIAT 500 Abarth... with an Automatic Transmission?

According to this article by WardsAuto, the FIAT 500 Abarth will be available with an automatic transmission sometime soon. The Abarth, which is currently only available with a 5-speed heavy-duty manual transmission, features 160 horsepower, compared to the regular 500's 101 horsepower, and the 500 Turbo's 135 horsepower. By making the Abarth available with an automatic transmission, FIAT USA is hoping to expand its customer base, as 80% of the Abarth hatchback buyers at this point are males. Tim Kuniskis, the brand’s North American president, said “I think when we’ll see more women is when we have the automatic, and we’re planning to add the automatic in the Abarth at some point, only because we’re getting that feedback from customers.”

You can read the full article here: http://wardsauto.com/sales-amp-marketing/automatic-transmission-coming-fiat-500-abarth

We're very excited to learn that the Abarth will be offered with an automatic transmission. What do you think? 

http://wardsauto.com/sales-amp-marketing/automatic-transmission-coming-fiat-500-abarth

Happy First Day of Spring!

Hope everyone enjoyed the first day of Spring! We took one of the Abarths out for a spin and stopped to pick up some Rita's Italian Ice! How did you celebrate the first day of Spring?

Most Drivers in America Drive Distracted: Study

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 70% of American drivers talk on the phone while driving, and 31% read or send text messages! Luckily the FIAT 500 comes standard with Blue&Me Hands-free Communication so you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road! Check back tomorrow for a post about a new feature, Uconnect, that will make its debut in the FIAT 500L!

Most Drivers in America Drive Distracted: Study
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about seven out of 10 Americans drive while talking on their mobile phones. The survey showed that 69 percent of drivers in America used their phones while driving in the previous 30 days while 31 percent of American drivers read or sent text messages... more
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/autoguidefeed/~3/6yz_zr-Xsss/

Tim Kuniskis and Adam Carolla on the 2014 FIAT lineup

Are you as excited as we are for these new models to join the FIAT USA line up for 2014? A 4-door FIAT 500L, an electric FIAT 500e, and the Abarth Cabrio! We can't wait to get these on our lot! Check out this YouTube video of Tim Kuniskis, theCEO of FIAT North America, and Adam Carolla discussing the new 2014 FIAT 500 models. 

	Tim Kuniskis & Adam Carolla on the 2014 FIAT lineup Host Adam Carolla chats with FIAT North America CEO Tim Kuniskis about the all-new 2014 FIAT models; including the 500e, Abarth Carbrio and 500L from the 2012 Los Angeles Autoshow.	From:fiatusa Views:4 0ratings
	Time:02:12	More inAutos & Vehicles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whraIkYPjHo&feature=youtube_gdata

How Do You Deal With Terrible Drivers? Jalopnik's Question of the Day!

"How do you deal with terrible drivers?"This is Jalopnik's Question of the Day and we're curious to hear your answers!! Let us know how you deal with terrible drivers in the comment box below!
http://jalopnik.com/how-do-you-deal-with-terrible-drivers-453522153

Throwback Thursday!

Happy Throwback Thursday everyone! We love this 1962 FIAT ad. "Always have at least one FIAT!" :)

Have any cool FIAT throwback images? Please share them with us!

Comparing the available audio systems of the 2013 FIAT 500

There's nothing better than turning up the volume when your favorite song comes on while you're driving, so it was no surprise to find how excited our customers are about the enhanced audio experience now available in the 2013 FIAT 500. The enhanced audio experience I'm referring to is the Beats Audio Premium Sound System. There are already so many available options and customizations in the FIAT 500 and this is just one more item our customers have added to their list of features to test out and compare during their vehicle shopping process. The first question customers usually ask about the audio systems available is, "what's the difference?" which is why I figured this would be a good topic for my first post in our FIAT of Lehigh Valley Blog.

  

 If you're a music buff, there's a good chance you're already familiar with Beats Audio by Dr. Dre. If not, here's a quick run down from the FIAT USA Blog. You can read the full article here.

 "Beats Audio was developed in 2009 by legendary hip-hop producer Dr. Dre. He sought to deliver the full spectrum of sound experienced in a real recording studio by combining science and artistry in portable audio equipment such as headphones and notebook computers.

 Two years later, Dr. Dre brought Beats Audio to the automotive industry, working directly with engineers to design and tune an exclusive 10-speaker sound system first introduced at the New York Auto Show.

 The Beats Audio system made its FIAT debut a year later, in the new FIAT 500. What makes the Beats Audio experience unique to the FIAT 500? Well, Dr. Dre personally worked with FIAT engineers acrossall FIAT 500 models to create a sound experience customized to the shape and size of each individual 500 model. This guarantees our drivers a truly one-of-a-kind sound experience."

Now that you're familiar with Beats Audio by Dr. Dre, you're probably wondering what the differences between the base audio system, the Alpine^® premium audio system, and the Beats Audio premium sound system are.

• The base audio system is standard on the FIAT 500 Pop, FIAT 500c Pop Cabrio, and the FIAT 500 Turbo.
• The Alpine^® premium audio system is standard on the FIAT 500 Sport, the FIAT 500 Lounge, the FIAT 500c Lounge Cabrio, and the FIAT 500 Abarth.
• The Beats Audio premium sound system is an available as an upgrade on all Models - FIAT 500 Pop, FIAT 500 Sport, FIAT 500 Lounge, FIAT 500 Turbo, FIAT 500c Pop Cabrio, FIAT 500c Lounge Cabrio, and FIAT 500 Abarth.

The document below lists the specifications of each audio system and shows where each aspect of the sound system is located within the FIAT 500 and also offers a visual comparison between the audio systems.

If you're having trouble viewing the document, click here for the original PDF.

The Beats Audio premium sound system is definitely an exciting addition to the long list of options available in the 2013 FIAT 500. After comparing the audio systems, which would you prefer in your FIAT 500? What song(s) would you use to test the systems out?