AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -

So what new car seems to be turning men’s heads this season?

If Men’s Journal’s choice for one of its “Gear of the Year Awards” is any indicator, the 2012 Fiat 500 is of particular interest to the male population.

After magazine staff and correspondents tested hundreds of new products, the Fiat 500 was chosen to receive the award that represents the magazine’s “Live the interesting life” creed, based on the unit’s unique styling, engaging driving dynamics and fuel efficiency, among other attributes.

This choice is also of particular significance because this is the first time vehicles have been included on the “Gear of the Year” list, which represents more than 40 of the "most innovative and game-changing products" including sports equipment, apparel, technology and culinary tools, the company noted.

 “Men’s Journal magazine’s ‘Live the interesting life’ creed truly reflects what the Fiat 500 is all about — being unique and offering customers a way to experience more in life,” company officials further explained.

Magazine staff also referenced the unit’s “segment-exclusive Italian styling, efficient city-friendly proportions, innovative technologies and attainable price (starting MSRP of $15,500),” as reasons behind their choice.  

Commenting on the award, Tim Kuniskis, head of Fiat Brand North America, said, "We’re extremely honored to win the ‘Gear of the Year’ award from Men’s Journal.

“The new Fiat 500 is truly distinctive, and we will continue to expand the appeal of our Cinquecento, with the upcoming introduction of the Fiat 500 by Gucci, aimed at Italian style lovers; and the Fiat 500 Abarth, targeted towards Italian performance enthusiasts,” he continued.