The Fiat 500 is a name that resonates with nearly everyone familiar with automobiles. Its distinctive shape and charming design have graced roads worldwide, earning it a reputation as one of the most recognizable cars on the market.
This latest iteration of the Fiat 500, however, departs significantly from its predecessors. Launched in 2020, the Fiat 500e, also known as the New 500, has gone fully electric, bringing a modern twist to its enduring legacy.
In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, design updates, and how it stacks up against competitors. Prepare for an in-depth exploration of a vehicle that seeks to redefine compact city driving with an electric flair.
What Sets the Fiat 500e Apart from the Petrol 500?
While the Fiat 500e may retain the classic silhouette of its petrol-powered sibling, everything beneath its exterior is entirely new. From its chassis and body platform to its interior design, the Fiat 500e stands on its own as a thoroughly modern electric vehicle.
Bigger, Sleeker, and Electric-Only
The New 500 is 61mm longer, 56mm wider, and 29mm taller than the petrol version, offering a more substantial and confident stance. Its surfaces are elegantly minimalistic, and the attention to detail is exceptional. Despite these changes, it maintains its charm, avoiding what could have been a descent into exaggerated “cuteness.”
Fiat has also embraced boldness in its color palette, doing away with dull shades and offering a variety of vibrant options that enhance the car’s spirited personality.
Drivetrain Dynamics: Is It Still Front-Wheel Drive?
Unfortunately, yes, the Fiat 500e sticks with front-wheel drive (FWD). Fiat had the opportunity to follow the trend of rear-motor/rear-wheel drive (RWD) setups seen in cars like the original Fiat 500 or the short-lived Honda e. However, the company chose FWD, citing customer familiarity as the primary reason.
Driving Experience
The electric motor’s throttle response is calibrated to mimic a petrol-powered car, providing a sense of familiarity for drivers transitioning to electric. Handling remains consistent with the petrol version, though the car’s compact design keeps its agility intact.
One curious design choice is the placement of the charging port on the right-rear wing, precisely where petrol is filled in the older models—a nostalgic nod to its internal combustion heritage.
Range and Charging: Practicality for Everyday Use
The Fiat 500e is available with two battery configurations:
| Battery Size | Motor Power | Range (WLTP) | Fast Charging Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24kWh | 94bhp | 118 miles | 50kW |
| 42kWh | 117bhp | 199 miles | 85kW |
Real-World Performance
In everyday driving conditions—comprising urban commutes, suburban roads, and occasional motorway stretches—the Fiat 500e lives up to its efficiency claims, though with some caveats.
- The 24kWh model struggled to exceed 90 miles of range, making it suitable only as a secondary vehicle for city use.
- The 42kWh model, on the other hand, delivers a practical 199-mile range under ideal conditions and is a better all-around choice for varied driving needs.
Charging performance is also noteworthy. The 42kWh model can recover 100 miles in just 15 minutes on an 85kW charger. However, most public rapid chargers in the UK operate at 50kW, which aligns with the smaller battery’s maximum charging rate.
The Fiat 500e’s Competition
Positioned as a premium small electric car, the Fiat 500e enters a highly competitive segment. Its price point places it alongside notable rivals, each with its strengths and weaknesses:
| Rival | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Peugeot e-208 | Stylish design, good driving range | Higher price for top trims |
| Renault Zoe | Spacious interior, proven reliability | Outdated design elements |
| Volkswagen e-Up | Affordable second-hand options | Limited availability |
| MG4 | Excellent value for money | Less stylish than the 500e |
| Mini Electric | Fun to drive, iconic appeal | Limited range compared to 500e |
While the Fiat 500e excels in style, charm, and urban practicality, it lags behind competitors like the Mini Electric in driving dynamics. Still, the Fiat’s 42kWh battery gives it a notable edge in range.
Our Top Pick from the Range
For those looking to purchase a Fiat 500e, we recommend the 87kW La Prima 42kWh 3dr Auto, priced at £29,940. This model strikes the perfect balance between range, performance, and the upscale features that make the Fiat 500e a standout in its class.
Verdict: The Fiat 500e—A Stylish Leap into the Electric Era
“Fiat’s reimagined 500 is a compact, refined, and stylish electric car that holds its own in a crowded market.”
The Fiat 500e offers a distinctive blend of retro charm and modern innovation, making it a compelling choice for urban drivers and those taking their first steps into electric mobility.
Key Strengths
- Eye-catching design that blends classic and contemporary aesthetics
- Efficient electric drivetrain with a decent range for city and suburban use
- Compact size, making it ideal for crowded urban environments
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited appeal for those requiring a spacious vehicle
- The 24kWh battery model lacks sufficient range for versatility
For those who value style and are drawn to the allure of a recognizable automotive icon, the Fiat 500e is a delightful choice. However, buyers seeking maximum value and practicality might explore alternatives like the Peugeot e-208 or the MG4.
Closing Thoughts
The Fiat 500e isn’t just a car—it’s a statement of intent for the future of compact, urban electric vehicles. By embracing electrification while retaining its iconic personality, the Fiat 500e ensures its place not only on today’s roads but also in tomorrow’s electric revolution.
“The New 500 proves that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing charm—it enhances it.”
