The evolution of the Fiat 500->ke1708 is the perfect example of an iconic model adjusting its approach to fit into the current demands of the auto industry. The original 500 was launched in 1957 and a modern version was only introduced 50 years later in 2007. The latter date also marked the start of the 500’s evolution. No longer was it just Fiat’s->ke30 kooky, little economy car; the more sophisticated market demanded better choices. And choices was what Fiat delivered with the evolved 500 lineup that now includes the 500C, the 500 Abarth, the 500L, and even the all-electric 500E. But the 500 hatchback->ke304 still remains the backbone of the range.

At the 2014 Miami International Auto Show,->ke1718 Fiat paid tribute to that backbone when it presented a special-edition->ke2041 model called the 500 Ribelle. Based on the 2015 Fiat 500 Pop, the 500 Ribble ("ribble" is Italian for "rebel") is a limited-edition model designed to highlight new personalized features that help add more flavor to the 500’s retro-chic looks.

Fiat understands that the 500’s expanded presence in the US is slowly giving it a bigger audience to showcase its styling wares. The new personalized features on the 500 Ribelle drive home that point with a blend of new exterior colors, cosmetic updates, and interior refinements.

Click past the jump to read more about the Fiat 500 Ribelle.

Exterior

There’s nothing too dramatic going on in the exterior of the 500 Riblee, unless you count the new exterior color options "dramatic." In that case, prepare yourselves to be blown away by the four available body colors of the 500 Ribelle. There’s a palette of shades to choose from, including Bianco, Billet Argento, Grigio and Nero Puro.

Every body color of the 500 Ribelle features a complementary red roof, spoiler and mirror caps, creating a dynamic two-tone look that brings out the 500’s unmistakably exuberant and impressionable personality.

Interior

The Fiat 500 Ribelle’s upgraded interior is limited to a choice of two upholstery options with gray being the dominant color. That can be combined with either red or black, depending on the customer’s taste and preference.

It should be noted that since the 500 Ribelle is based on the Fiat 500 Pop, the 500 Ribelle also receives the same updates Fiat has for the entire 500 lineup. That includes a more advanced instrument panel with a seven-inch cluster display.

Drivetrain

The Fiat 500 Ribelle will feature the same 1.4-liter,inline-four engine that produces 101 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 98 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. It's not exactly sports car-like numbers, but if you understand what you're getting with the 500, you won't be disappointed with what it has to offer.

This low-powered engine allows the cute little hatchback to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 11 seconds to go with a top speed of 113 mph.

Pricing

The limited-edition 500 Ribelle will be available in Fiat studios beginning in December 2014 with an MSRP price of $17,395, not including destination charges.

Competition

Mini Cooper

it’s only fitting that the Fiat 500 will always be measured against the Mini Cooper like both models were created to give the other some competition.

The new-generation Mini Cooper made its debut in November 2013 packing plenty of revisions from its predecessor.

The 2014 Cooper was the recipient of a revised grille inside a smooth, one-piece chrome frame. The headlights also got some work, as did the overall shape of the car’s nose, which is more upright than it was before.

The new Cooper also benefits from having more engine variety -- and power -- than the 500. It’s got a 1.5-liter three-cylinder that pumps out 136 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.0-liter four-banger that develops a steady 192 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. These two engine options allow the Cooper to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 and 6.5 seconds, respectively, to go with a top speeds of 130 mph and 146 mph.

Pricing for the Mini Cooper sits at $19,950 for the base model and $23,600 for the Cooper S.

Conclusion

It says a lot of the Fiat 500's appeal that it's become a popular city-car option in the U.S. market despite still being considered a "new arrival." But the appeal of the 500 is completely understandable if you know what you're getting with it. The Ribelle limited edition gives it an added shine, but not much else.