Working with a total length of just 3.3 meters, the designers lengthened the passenger compartment to obtain a pleasing shape that features a very airy side view, a very short bonnet and minimal wheel overhang. The bonnet is wraparound type and folds over the sides while the omega-shaped rib, now as then, fills the front end without adding any grilles or friezes. Due to its compact size and generous track dimensions, the 'Fiat Trepiùno' is also distinctive for its sporting, dynamic appearance.
All these retro hints share one specific characteristic: no motif has been re-used on the 'Fiat Trepiùno' before considering its usefulness on a modern city car, reviewing its functions and materials or even finding it new applications. For example, the two headlights set into the front end are accompanied by two supplementary lights that are the very essence of cutting-edge technology. The tail-lights, on the other hand, work with LCD screens that display readings in graphic mode: and so communication passes from the car's interior to its exterior.
Another example of reworked style is the famous canvas hood found in some superminis of the past. In the 'Trepiùno' that has been updated with a large Sky-dome window, continuous with the windscreen. The rear has also been updated, with a larger tailgate that incorporates the rear window and roof spoiler.
The simple interior design includes front seats of minimum thickness that offer more comfort than seats with conventional padding. They are made out of a layer of soft polyurethane that is complemented by a more rigid polyurethane structure to create a flexible, comfortable three-layer structure able to absorb all loads and, above all, not detract from the volume and space. The seats allow so much room in the back that two further places can be created through a clever arrangement of backrests and cushions. For example, the split backrests fold forward to create the customary extended load compartment. Or they can be lifted up to cover the extended boot area from prying eyes.
All this makes it possible to reconfigure the interior to suit the most common transport needs and satisfy the greatest number of users: 2 seats, 3 seats, 3+1 emergency seat. In a normal 3+1 configuration, the front passenger seat is moved so far forward that it is almost swallowed up by the dash, which can be deflated by means of a conversion process to create room for the front passenger's legs. This makes room available for even tall people in the corresponding rear seat.
The upper area of the dashboard accommodates 2 drawers while the controls on the central console are under a film. All you have to do is brush them with your fingers and a light will follow your movements and receive your input. A liquid crystal display extending from the same console shows the menu of another one-touch multifunction control. This control is located between the front seats so that it can be used in intuitive, simple manner without dropping your gaze from the road. Light is also used to ensure the driver obtains a response to any operation: air conditioner temperature or main service activation. Night-time driving and night-time passenger compartment perception are also aided by lights through the use of LEDs concealed in the floor and door pouches.