2017 FIAT 500 vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

Competition for the six-year-old 2017 Fiat 500 hasn't stood still, and the latest Honda Fit remains an excellent subcompact choice—minus the cheeky's 500's style and character, of course.

The Fit's ingenious fold-away seats give it the segment's most flexible interior and enough space for four adults to ride comfortably.

The Mini Cooper, now in a new generation of three- and five-door hardtops, a genuine convertible, and a Clubman wagon too, is larger inside and far more fuel-efficient than the 500, which is only so-so on that front.

(The Mini costs a lot more, though.) The Chevy Spark was new last year, and while it doesn't have the 500's charm, it can fit four adults inside a striking small five-door hatchback with all the latest infotainment features.

The Smart Fortwo was new last year as well, offering (finally) decent driving qualities along with urban parking ability that can't be beat.

Finally, the Ford Fiesta is as old as the 500, but still scores on driving fun, though it's tighter inside than some of the four-seaters.