Fiat 500 goes head-to-head with Skoda Citigo

‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ seems to be Fiat’s mantra with the 500. The car has proven extremely popular since its 2008 launch, and while a recent revamp was necessary to keep it fresh in the eyes of the buyer, the model’s chic style was only mildly revised rather than majorly overhauled.

Inside the light and airy cabin, the same fun feel as before prevails. Quality has improved slightly, too, although the back seat should be avoided for anything other than the shortest trips. In fact, it’s better utilised for shopping bag overspill from the rather small boot.

The Skoda’s rear compartment is noticeably bigger, as is the front, which has more comfortable seats, slightly better controls and a higher-quality feel. Reading the speedometer round the wheel can be a bind, though.

Of course, both cars are in their element out on the city streets. The Fiat’s already light steering can be enhanced to one-finger control thanks to the City Steering mode, and the punchy engine is quiet and refined. The 500 is OK for short motorway blasts, but you wouldn’t want to be cruising over long distances, especially given its fairly pronounced wind and engine drone at speed. The fidgety ride over broken surfaces can become tiring too.

The Citigo’s ride is much better, and would shame some cars in the class above. B-road handling is good as well, enhanced by well weighted steering. Even if the three-cylinder engine doesn’t feel quite as potent around town as the 500’s powerplant, it sounds pleasant – until road drone at high speed drowns it out.

Kit levels in both models is reasonable, with each featuring standard-fit air-conditioning, 15in alloy wheels and electric front windows. Tech spec varies, but both feature some form of connectivity. From an ownership point of view, the Skoda is projected to be less costly to buy and run over three years, for both private purchasers and business users.

Ultimately, it comes down to why you’re buying. If you want stylish, timeless design and a little quirkiness, the Fiat 500 will draw your eye and possibly your wallet. But the better all-round buy is definitely the Skoda Citigo. It’s roomier, more comfy, a cheaper ownership proposition and superior from behind the wheel. A perfect local runaround.

Fiat 500 1.2

Engine size: 1.2-litre petrol

Price from: £11,765 (list)

Power: 68bhp

Torque: 75lb ft

0-60mph: 14.0 seconds

Top speed: 99mph

Fuel economy: 53.1mpg

CO2: 110g/km

Skoda Citigo 1.0 60

Engine size: 1.0-litre petrol

Price from: £10,670 (list)

Power: 59bhp

Torque: 70lb ft

0-62mph: 14.9 seconds

Top speed: 99mph

Fuel economy: 49.1mpg

CO2: 105g/km