The option of stop-start technology has been introduced to the Fiat 500 city car.

Stop-start technology switches the engine off automatically when stationary.

And then fires up the engine instantly by pressing the throttle.

The fuel-saving technology gives the Fiat 500 almost 60mpg. It’s available on the Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge model as the Fiat 500 Start&Stop.

The Fiat 500 Start&Stop costs £9500 – the same as the 1.2 Lounge.

However, while the 500 Start&Stop gains better fuel economy it loses some of the Lounge’s standard spec. The standard glass roof goes; as do the electric windows.

Both the Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge and Fiat 500 Start&Stop models sit in the 10% company car tax banding.

Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge v Fiat 500 Start&Stop fuel economy

• 500 1.2 Lounge 1.2 69bhp, 55.4mpg, 119g/km
• 500 Start&Stop 1.2 69bhp, 58.9mpg, 113g/km

Fiat 500 Start&Stop: how does it work?

Based on a starting procedure (battery and cranking system) able to perform a fast engine restart and deal with a far higher number of starts than a standard system.

Engine stop is only allowed once a speed of 6mph has been achieved after pulling away. To restart the engine the clutch pedal must be depressed. The Start&Stop system can be manually activated or deactivated using a button switch.

Start&Stop will not activate in certain cases, including engine still cold, battery in low charge state, heated rear window active, front wiper at maximum speed or reverse gear engaged (in a parking manoeuvre).

If the engine has been stopped and the clutch pedal has not been depressed for more than three minutes, the engine can only be restarted using the ignition key. Similarly, if the engine has been stopped and the driver’s seat belt has been unfastened, or a door has been opened, engine restart will only be achieved with the key.