The Fiat 500C may not hold up when compared to actual luxury cars, but when it comes to distinguishing itself as a car with innate luxury in mind, the little compact convertible->ke144 carries the kind of cache not many in its class have.

Over the years, we've seen the 500C -- and the 500, for that matter -- launch partnerships with numerous high-end fashion labels and it's no surprise that the Italian automaker is adding yet another one to that list. Okay, GQ isn't exactly a fashion label, but when it comes to mens' styling, this magazine is an authority on the subject.

That's why there's a certain element of style attributed to the just-launched 500C GQ Edition. The car captures the essence of the GQ man by creating through its athletic yet style-conscious appearance, complete with design qualities that not many lavishly-designed 500s can boast of. The larger air intakes in the front make for a more pronounced front fascia while the cloth-top mounted spoiler extends the 500's roofline and delivers the downforce needed for improved handling. The rear end of the car also features a diffuser that has been integrated into the dual exhaust system while a distinctive “GQ 500” badge located on the B-pillar and a set of 16-inch, split five-spoke aluminum wheels round out the exterior enhancements.

The interior of the 500C GQ Edition also speaks to the stylish and premium work done to establish this model as a true trend-setter. Nero leather and Alcantara are prevalent inside, particularly used as a dress-up to the three-spoke steering wheel with a contrasting Steam (white) inner leather ring, the cluster brow with Tungsten accent stitching, and the upscale seats with Alcantara inserts. GQ Edition-specific sati chrome interior accents round out the interior modifications, driving up the class and upscale look of a true style savant of a Fiat 500->ke1708.

The 500C GQ comes with the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine that puts down 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. This nets the fashion-conscious micro-car to 60 mph in the low 7-second range.

The Fiat 500 may not be a sexy car in standard guise. But by all accounts, the 500C GQ Edition is.

Click past the jump to read about the Fiat 500C

2014 Fiat 500C GQ Edition

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Fiat 500C GQ Edition
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 160
  • Torque: 170
  • Transmission: five-speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

2012 Fiat 500C

The Fiat 500 Cabrio features the same design language as the coupe version, but combined with a fully power-operated cloth top. Up front the 500C will be distinguished by the 500’s signature "whiskers and logo" with circular projector headlamps. The cabrio version also receives chromed trim and tapers, large wheel arches and a horizontal cooling duct. The model is further differentiate by a slightly longer windshield that is designed to provide passengers with a maximized outward view.

Under its hood, the Fiat 500C is powered by a host of engine options, highlighted by a track-proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine delivering 160 horsepower and up to 170 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to drop 0-to-60 mph bursts to the low 7-second range to go with an estimated top speed of 110 mph.