Motoring the narrow, hilly streets of Hull, MA in a Fiat 500c Gucci Edition, I couldn’t help but feel Italian.  Ok, it’s not Europe, but I am Italian, and with people smiling and waving as I’m adorned in Gucci enhancements, I guess one could call it my J. Lo moment.

To celebrate Gucci’s 90th anniversary, Fiat teamed up with the luxurious Italian leather maker to create this little gem exuding style with just the right touch of sexy.

It stands out as Gucci right away by the signature green/red/green stripe running  across the length of the power-retractable cloth top.  Then I opened the door and the oohs and aahs started.  What grabbed me was the two toned Frau leather seats embossed with the Guuccissima logo.  It was like being presented with that longed for handbag.  Except that I got to sit in it.  And then buckling up in those delicious seats with Gucci signature green/red/green stripe seat belts.  The spree continues with premium leather accents on the interior door panels and on the hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel, finished in a two-tone ivory and white combination.   The interior materials are quality and well-crafted creating a cozy, artistic feel much like the MINI, it’s main competitor, with a round speedometer (except it’s on the dashboard)and power window switches located in the center stack.

Adding to the vehicle’s exterior charm are uniquely designed, retro-inspired 15-inch aluminum wheels with interlocking “GG” hubcaps and brake calipers, which have been lacquered in signature Gucci green.  Chrome cursive “Gucci” signatures accent the door frames and hatchback.  And what’s distinctive about the retractable cloth top is that is folds back like a window shade, while maintaining the body structure and vehicle design lines.

Just like a favorite handbag that you can stuff everything into, the Fiat 500 by Gucci comes loaded with premium amenities; Blue&Me hands-free communication technology with USB port, eco:Drive Application and iPod control capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, excellent sounding Bose Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer, automatic climate control and heated front seats….should I continue?

The driving is pure fun.  The 1.4 L I-4 multiair engine puts out 101 horsepower.  Sure it could use more, but driving this car isn’t about horsepower.   Its jubilance gives it all the energy it needs.  On top of that, it’s responsive, efficient and handles easily.  Parking anywhere is a breeze.

To my surprise, I did get my daughter in the backseat in her rear facing carseat.  Space was tight, but it worked.  The seat cushions however were very stiff, and hooking onto the latches took some strength and fishing around.    The trunk space reminded me of a carry on duffel bag.  Small, elongated and roundish.  I fit four Whole Foods bags across.  And that was it.  To utilize the cargo area, the seats need to be folded down.  So it’s baby or luggage.

Which brings me to my last thought.  This car is so cute, it made me feel like a proud mama….times two.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $28,400
engine: 1.4L,  I-4
hp/torque: 101 hp/98 ft-lb.
drivetrain: FWD
fuel economy:  27 city/32 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating: Good. Top Safety Pick

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
cute, chic, Italian

What’s the best thing about it?
it has personality galore

What’s the biggest drawback?
it’s oh so small

Mom-friendliness score: B+

Driver-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“La vita viva all’il più pieno.”

(live life to the fullest)