It’s safe to say that the 500 has proven a roaring success for Fiat since the Italian firm revived it back in 2007, with its funky styling and impressive personalisation options earning it a huge number of followers.
But for 2021, Fiat’s back with a twist as it introduces a new electric 500. Though petrol models will remain on sale, this latest 500 is actually based on a new platform, is different to the standard car and gets a range of new technology that aim to future-proof it for the years to come.
With models just reaching showrooms, here’s what you need to know about it before buying…
What powertrains are available?
Fiat offers two powertrain options on the new electric 500.
The first is limited to the entry-level Action model and features a 94bhp electric motor and 23.8kWh battery. This is a model best aimed at city dwellers, due to its 118-mile electric range. That said, 50kW rapid charging capability means the battery can be charged from flat to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes. As for performance, it can reach 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds and has a top speed of 84mph.
The bulk of the 500 range uses a setup that combines a 116bhp electric motor with a 42kWh battery. This larger battery enables a range between 185 and 199 miles depending on trim level, which is impressive for an EV of this size. That additional power also reduces the 0-60mph time to 8.8 seconds, while raising the top speed to 93mph.
What trim levels are offered?
Fiat is offering a choice of four trim levels on the new 500, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows. Note all prices are inclusive of the government’s electric car grant.
Action – from £20,495 (hatchback only)
The Action trim level is solely available with the smaller powertrain, which helps to bring the cost down. Standard equipment is still generous, though, and includes rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, LED rear lights and air conditioning. It also features electric door mirrors, keyless start and a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, along with a raft of safety kit – including autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition.
Passion – from £23,995 (hatchback)/£26,645 (convertible)
Upgrading to the Passion brings the more powerful powertrain and offers a longer range, while also adding 50/50 split folding rear seats, cruise control, higher rapid charging capability and climate control. A seven-inch touchscreen is also included, which features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and DAB radio.
Icon – from £25,495 (hatchback)/£28,145 (convertible)
On top of the Passion, Icon models bring keyless entry (and the option for a ‘wearable key’) along with automatic lights, 16-inch alloy wheels and a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation.
La Prima – from £27,495 (hatchback)/£30,495 (convertible)
At the top of the range, the La Prima gets an impressive amount of standard equipment. Highlights include a fixed panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, eco leather seats, a reversing camera and 17-inch alloy wheels. Further safety equipment is added in the form of blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control that offers Level 2 autonomous driving capability and all-round parking sensors. Additional charging cables and a free home wallbox for charging are also included.
What about personalisation?
Fiat is well-known for its personalisation offerings and the new 500 is certainly no exception. The colour palette is as bright as ever, including shades such as Rose Gold, Ocean Green and Celestial Blue. A range of style packs are available, too, along with different coloured interior themes.
There’s also the choice of choosing the standard three-door hatchback or the slightly quirkier convertible, too.
Enquire on a new Fiat 500
