ON July 4, this year, 50 years after Fiat first introduced the 500, then called the Nuova Fiat 500, Fiat will launch its new Fiat 500 in Turin.

It goes on sale there immediately, but will not arrive in Britain until early 2008.

The new three-door 500 will come with three engine options, a 75bhp 1.3-litre turbo diesel, and two petrol engines, a 69bhp 1.2-litre and a 100bhp 1.4-litre 16v, with five or six-speed manual gearboxes depending upon power unit.

Fiat says its latest city car takes a leap forward in terms of comfort and safety, technology and equipment, while remaining a vehicle that is entertaining and practical, appealing, and full of fun.

The UK pricing will be revealed nearer the 2008 launch date.