THERE is no shortage of Fiat 500s on our roads and most seem to be driven by young women who are attracted by its neat dimensions, cute looks and retro styling.

With over 1.5 million sales being racked up since its launch back in 2007, Fiat was extremely careful when giving the car a major revamp last year - after all if it ain't broke don't try and fix it.

So even although an incredible 1,800 parts have been changed, the chic Fiat looks pretty much the same and it remains appealing to a certain age group.

The designers did not mess much with the car's looks but if you look closely you will spot a new grille with a touch of chrome, larger daytime running lights and new tail lights.

Owners can still choose to personalise their vehicles in often colourful ways and this car came in glam coral pastel paint.

Substantial improvements have been made to the interior and it is easy to see that the designers have been much busier here.

The popular retro style dash remains but a new infotainment screen takes pride of place and the redesigned steering wheel now features audio and other controls.

The seats provide much more comfort than before and there is a glovebox and an improved centre consule. The materials and fit and finishes have all been upgraded and the cabin feels surprisingly roomy despite its small dimensions.

The Lounge version gives you fog lights, electric body-coloured door mirrors, daytime running lights, alloy wheels and chrome door handles.

In addition you get a height adjustable driver's seat, touchscreen radio with bluetooth, USB and aux-in ports, leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors, air conditioning, electric front windows, remote central locking, a space save spare wheel and start/stop technology.

The new 500 features all the latest safety equipment including ABS, EBD, electronic stability control and a tyre pressure monitoring system. You also get front, side, window and driver's knee airbags.

This Fiat 500 was powered by a lively little 875cc two cylinder TwinAir engine. It is willing with a nice soundtrack and sprints to 62mph in 10 seconds flat. It has a maximum speed of 117mph but I would not want to be travelling anywhere near that speed in such a small vehicle.

As you would expect it is very frugal and the claimed combined figure is 67.3mpg. With low emissions of just 99g/km owners will not have to pay any road tax.

Once I got over the shock of the car's colour, I enjoyed driving it and it was really good in town and not out of its comfort zone on motorways. It made parking easy and the agile drive and funky interior made me smile.