The FIAT 500 was never a car that really needed any further style thanks to its retro chic charm but that hasn't stopped luxury yachting company Riva lending a helping hand. It's called the Fiat 500 Riva and the brand say the car is aimed at customers seeking the same exclusivity as the Riva Aquariva Super yacht. The price has not be been confirmed but the limited edition will be available from the end of August. The first 500 cars will receive a numbered limited edition badge which can be customised.So what comes in this luxury yacht for the road?
500 Ahoy!
A choice of three petrol engines will be available, the 1.2 litre 69bhp petrol, the 85bhp TwinAir and the more powerful 105bhp TwinAir. The car looks rather fetching in the limited edition 'Sera Blue' provided on the 500 Riva which is popular on it's yachting counterpart. If you opt for the convertible version you will receive a matching blue soft top whereas you will get a panoramic roof if you choose the hatchback. Both models will receive chrome detailing, 16" alloy wheels, a double aquamarine running down the side plus the Riva logo proudly worn on the rear.
Inside there are stylish ivory leather seats designed by Italian furniture-maker Poltrona Frau but they may not be the first feature that catches your eye. What is likely to attract your gaze is the polish wooden dash made of painted mahogany with maple inlay work which bears the Riva logo. I'm not too sure of my cup of tea to be honest but that is purely a matter of personal taste.
It should last a lifetime though thanks to the ultralight carbon shell on which the natural wood is applied to. The same mahogany features on the gearknob to further add the feeling of being on a luxury yacht. Limited edition floor mats and boot mat help to keep the nautical theme going but what about equipment?
Chock-a-block with equipment
The 500 Riva is not just about nautical styling, there will be a good level of equipment available including automatic climate control, front fog lights, rear parking sensors, LED daytime running lights and Connect system. A 7" TFT screen will also be included but to give this one a bit more exclusivity it comes with an aquamarine background and Riva logo. If you're worried about being lost at sea you can opt for a 3D navigation system but that will come at an extra cost.
Safety equipment includes seven airbags, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) Hill Holder and HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assistance) that helps with emergency braking.