Facts & Figures
Exterior Dimensions
Cargo Measurement
Fuel
Facts & Figures
Exterior DimensionsCargo MeasurementFuelReliability History Reliability History
Trouble
SpotsTrouble
SpotsNEW CAR
PREDICTIONNEW CAR
PREDICTIONEngine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
Body Hardware
Power Equipment
In-Car Electronics
USED CAR
VERDICTSEngine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
Body Hardware
Power Equipment
In-Car Electronics
USED CAR
VERDICTSCR.ORG/CARS NEW CARS 93Fiat 500L
This Italian confection feels undercooked and has several signifi-
cant f laws. It earned a dismal road-test score, thanks in part to a
stiff ride, f lat seats, and an awkward driving position that dictates
bent knees and stretched arms. The 500L also scored a Poor in the
IIHS small-overlap frontal crash test. To its credit, this quasi-wagon
responds eagerly in corners and handles securely at its limit, and
provides impressive interior space for its size, along with good vis-
ibility, super-easy cabin access, and a commendable 27 mpg overall
from the 1.4-liter turbo engine. Fortunately, Fiat has dropped the
dual-clutch transmission we tested and now equips the 500L with a
conventional six-speed automatic.Overall Score 30
Predicted Reliability 10
Owner Satisfaction 10
Road-Test Score 50
Front-Crash Prevention NABase Price: $21,910-$24,320
Body Styles: 4-door hatchback
Trim Lines: Lounge, Pop, Trekking,
Urbana
Drive Wheels: Front
Seating: 2 front, 3 rear
Engines: 1.4-liter 4 turbo (160 hp)
Transmissions: 6-speed automaticLength (in.)..................... 167
Width (in.) ......................70
Height (in.) ..................... 66
Wheelbase (in.) .................103
Weight (lb.) ..................3,330
% weight front/rear ...........61/39Max. Load (lb.) ................ 860
Cargo Volume, cu.ft............. 22.5
Towing Capacity (lb.) ............NRPremium
CR overall mpg ..................2716 17 18
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***Much worse than average 01
Fiat 500
The 500’s alert handling, free-revving engine, and crisp-shifting
manual make it engaging to drive. The standard engine is the 135-hp,
1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder, which provides decent performance.
On all versions the ride is choppy and the cabin is noisy. Headroom
up front is good, but some will find the narrow cockpit and driving
position awkward: The steering wheel doesn’t adjust for reach, so it
is often too far away, forcing drivers to sit uncomfortably close. The
tight rear seats are difficult to access, and the cargo area is minus-
cule. The convertible top can be pulled back like a sunroof or fully
dropped. The sporty Abarth’s 160-hp engine makes the car pretty
quick, and the car grips the road well; the electric 500e is enjoyable
for its silence and efficiency. The 500 hatchback scored a Poor in the
IIHS small-overlap crash test.
Overall Score 45
Predicted Reliability 01
Owner Satisfaction 02
Road-Test Score 66
Front-Crash Prevention NABase Price: $16,245-$33,210
Body Styles: 2-door hatchback;
convertible
Trim Lines: Abarth, e, Lounge, Pop
Drive Wheels: Front
Seating: 2 front, 2 rear
Engines: Electric (111 hp); 1.4-liter 4
turbo (135 hp); 1.4-liter 4 turbo (160
hp)
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic;
5-speed manual; 1-speed direct
Length (in.)..................... 144
Width (in.) ......................64
Height (in.) ......................59
Wheelbase (in.) ..................91
Weight (lb.) ..................2,565
% weight front/rear ...........64/36
Max. Load (lb.) ................ 700
Cargo Volume, cu.ft............... 10
Towing Capacity (lb.) ............NR
Regular or premium or electric
CR overall mpg ..................28
Much worse than
average***
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***16 17 1801
F