The 500, along with the Grande Punto, is leading an image turn-around at the troubled Italian automaker. Sure, it has Lapo Elkann written all over it and provides some much needed buzz for fusty old Fiat, but we think the real reason for its success is simple: skyrocketing fuel prices.

We say this brand has the potential for a tiny turn-around if they can build on the momentum from the Grande Punto. Add Lapo's buzz-building actions in the papers to create some family mystique around the marque and this could be the tour de force of Euro city streets by the end of the decade.

Practice now saying 'chiingkwey chentow', because you're gonna want one.