Fiat has a tradition of producing compact cars that are stylish and incredibly fun to drive. While some models are perfect for everyday commuting, others are sized just right for small families. You will also like the fact that Fiat offers very affordable pricing.
Let’s take a look at the 2018 Fiat 500 lineup.
2018 Fiat 500
Although the 500 is the smallest vehicle made by Fiat, it’s arguably the most exciting. Drivers love this pint-sized hatchback’s nimble handling and retro styling. City dwellers will especially appreciate the 500’s compact design, which ensures easier parking in congested areas. With a starting price of less than $16,000, the 2018 Fiat 500 is a perfect match for budget-minded car shoppers.
For 2018, Fiat decided to discontinue the 500’s previous base engine. This change enables every buyer to experience a more fulfilling level of performance. Its new standard engine pumps out a healthy 125 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. In terms of fuel economy, you can expect to get a combined 28 mpg.
If you desire even more driving excitement, check out the race-inspired Abarth model. Fiat tuned its engine to develop 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Aside from offering stronger acceleration, the 500 Abarth also comes equipped with a stiffer sports-tuned suspension. An aggressive exhaust note adds to Abarth model’s appeal. Although the Fiat 500 is engaging, some people may not like its upright driving position.
Several popular features come standard on the new 500 hatchback, including a backup camera and a 5.0-inch touchscreen. Meanwhile, a Beats premium sound system is optional. Among the car’s shortcomings is its below-average crash scores. You also won’t have access to advanced safety features such as forward collision warning and blind-spot detection.
2018 Fiat 500E
Visually similar to the gas-powered Fiat 500 hatchback, the all-electric Fiat 500E is a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers. Although an 84-mile driving range limits the 500E’s ability to travel long distances, it’s ideal for urban commuting. Bright paint colors, such as Electric Orange and Light Blue, enable you to stand out among the crowd. Furthermore, don’t let the 500E’s higher MSRP of $33,990 scare you away. It’s eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit given to EV buyers. Low-cost leasing deals are offered as well.
The new 2018 Fiat 500E is entertaining to drive around town. Its electric motor develops 111 horsepower and 147 pound-feet, which enables you to hit 60 mph in roughly 8.4 seconds. A tight turning radius and agile handling also help drivers to maneuver around narrow city streets. Although a quick-charging system is not offered, you can easily replenish the car’s battery pack via a regular 240-volt household outlet.
Despite only being offered in a single trim, the 2018 Fiat 500E comes equipped with plenty of modern features. Some of the key highlights include heated front seats, a 5.0-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker Alpine sound system. Although you won’t have access to very many safety technologies, rear parking sensors make you less likely to get into fender benders. To obtain a sleeker look, opt for Fiat’s eye-catching e-Sport appearance package.
2018 Fiat 500L
The 2018 Fiat 500L is a cross between a wagon and a compact SUV. It’s essentially a larger version of the subcompact 500 hatchback. Its unique Italian design and extra passenger space should appeal to a lot of people. Affordability is clearly one of this vehicle’s big attractions. Expect to pay around $21,000 for the base Pop model. Although the 500L has plenty of charming qualities, you must also consider its drawbacks. A rough ride and stiff seats make the 500L less appropriate for lengthy road trips.
All versions of the Fiat 500L are powered by a 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s rated to develop 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While the 500L is not a high-performance ride, it’s quick enough to inspire you with confidence on the road. Nevertheless, so-so handling takes away from the 500L’s overall driving experience. Fuel economy stands at 22 mpg in town and 30 mpg on the highway.
Most people will be more than satisfied with the 500L’s list of standard equipped. Its highly rated Uconnect infotainment system proves to be smartphone friendly and very simple to use. Some of the other standard features include a six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. If you demand the latest advanced safety features, you’ll be quite disappointed with the Fiat 500L. Luckily, available rear parking sensors help you to squeeze into tight spots.
2018 Fiat 500X
If you’re seeking a sharp-looking crossover that’s good on gas, take a look at the 2018 Fiat 500X. An optional AWD system also makes it a good performer in the snow. Although the subcompact 500X doesn’t offer a great deal of interior room, there’s enough space in the back for small children to ride comfortably. Prices for the new 500X start at a reasonable $19,995.
The Fiat 500X gives you two different four-cylinder engines to choose from. According to test drivers, the base turbocharged engine is actually your best bet. It pushes out a competitive 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. To experience the maximum performance, stick with the standard manual transmission. In regard to fuel efficiency, you can anticipate getting around 25 mpg in traffic and up to 33 mpg on the open road.
You can also opt for a non-turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. Although the larger engine develops an extra 20 horsepower, it doesn’t feel as smooth. Fuel economy also drops to 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
On the road, expect the 500X to offer well-controlled handling. Although the 500X isn’t built to handle seriously rough terrain, it will fare well on light dirt trails. A metal-finish protective shield comes equipped on the more rugged Trekking model.
A 7.0-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry all come standard on the new 500X. You’ll also benefit from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which enable you to easily connect your smartphone. While upgrades like the powerful sound system are tempting, a lot of buyers will be especially interested in the 500X’s available safety technologies. When driving on the freeway, the 500X’s blind-spot monitoring system will give you an additional peace of mind. Lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning can be added as well.