Fiat 500e review: Price, features, performance & more!
The Fiat 500e is a modernised version of the iconic Fiat 500, now fully electric with zero emissions. It maintains the charming retro design that made the original model famous while offering the convenience of a touchscreen infotainment system and a lively electric motor for cruising around the city. Whether you prioritise style, sustainability, or a hint of nostalgia, the Fiat 500e will surely bring joy to your urban driving experience.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Efficient electric performance
- Quick charging capability (0-80% in 35 minutes)
- Ample front seat room
Cons:
- High starting price
- Limited rear seat space
The adorable Fiat 500 gets a shockingly expensive makeover with the 500e, a fully electric city car. It retains the undeniably cute, retro design that made the original famous, but with a hefty price tag to match its eco-friendly electric motor. At $52,500 starting, this electric Fiat is more than double the price of its gas-powered counterpart once the on-road costs are added. Are you intrigued by the sky-high price tag or the undeniable charm? The 500e offers a peppy electric ride, modern tech features, and even heated seats – a first for the Fiat 500. But is the nostalgia and Italian flair worth the price? Let's find out!
| Variants | Starting price | Fuel type | Fast Charge Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat 500e La Prima | $52,500* | Electric | 35 minutes |
Exteriors
The Fiat 500e retains the original's adorable, retro silhouette with modern LED lights and available two-tone paint jobs for a head-turning electric city car.
Styling elements
The Fiat 500e takes the iconic cuteness of the original 500 and injects it with a modern electric charm. It's a city car designed to turn heads, with its undeniably adorable, retro silhouette instantly recognisable. Imagine a bubbly jellybean on wheels; that's the 500e's vibe. The big, round headlights flank a smiling grille, while the short overhangs and rounded curves scream, "look at me!" Available in a range of colours that perfectly complement its playful personality, you can choose from sophisticated Tuxedo Black or Glacier White to a head-turning Rose Gold with matching mirror caps (on the La Prima trim). Every element, from the chrome accents to the available two-tone paint jobs, is designed to maximise the car's inherent cuteness factor.
Fiat hasn't forgotten the modern touches, though. The 500e's stylish LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication without sacrificing the car's overall charm. It's a delightful blend of retro nostalgia and modern design, perfect for those who want an eye-catching electric companion for city adventures.
Colour options
The Fiat 500e isn't shy when it comes to colour choices. It offers a delightful palette of 6 colours to match your individual style. The car comes standard in Ice White with no additional cost.
For $990, you have the freedom to make a statement with Mineral Grey, Ocean Green, the eye-catching Onyx Black, or the ever-charming Rose Gold.
For $1600, you can opt for a more striking colour like Celestial Blue.
Wheel design
The Fiat 500e ditches bulky EV wheels for sporty 17-inch alloys. Expect multi-spoke designs that complement the car's cute style, some with a two-tone option for added flair. These wheels prioritise looks and function, offering a smooth ride without sacrificing head-turning appeal.
Interiors
The Fiat 500e's interior might surprise you. While it's undeniably a compact car, clever design choices create a surprisingly spacious feel.
Interior layout and space
The Fiat 500e is especially spacious for the front passengers. It offers ample front headroom at 39.3 inches, generous front legroom measuring 41.8 inches, spacious front shoulder room of 51.1 inches, and comfortable front hip room of 49.8 inches. The big, upright windshield and relatively low side windows create an airy atmosphere. This makes the cabin feel less cramped, perfect for navigating city streets and quick commutes.
The rear seats, however, are better suited for occasional use or smaller passengers. Legroom can be tight for adults on longer journeys. Think of them as bonus seats for short trips with friends or as perfect for accommodating kids. The layout of the Fiat 500e prioritises functionality for city driving. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, focusing on easy access to essential controls. The driver's seat offers good adjustability, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated throughout the cabin, with cupholders, a glove compartment, and door pockets providing space for everyday essentials. While the cargo space might not be massive, it can easily handle groceries or weekend bags.
Comfort and ergonomics
The Fiat 500e strikes a good balance between comfort and a fun, city-focused driving experience. The seats are comfortable and supportive for everyday commutes, and heated seats (a first for the Fiat 500) are available for added warmth on chilly mornings. The driver's controls are all within easy reach, making for an intuitive driving experience. While some reviewers might find hard plastics throughout the cabin a slight downgrade in perceived quality, it keep the weight down and contributes to the car's overall peppy personality.
Boot
The Fiat 500e's boot space reflects its city car purpose. With 185 litres of cargo capacity, it won't swallow massive suitcases or furniture hauls from Ikea. However, that doesn't mean it's useless. Think of it as a cleverly designed space for everyday essentials. Groceries, weekend bags, or a stroller can comfortably fit, making it perfect for cruising around town and carrying your daily essentials.
Technology and infotainment
The Fiat 500e goes beyond just adorable looks and electric thrills. It has features designed to make your city's driving experience comfortable and convenient.
Infotainment system & Driver display
The centrepiece of the infotainment system is a user-friendly 10.25-inch touchscreen display. This system offers easy access to navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings, all designed to minimise distractions while driving. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for music, calls, and navigation.
Driver’s display
A 7-inch TFT instrument cluster display provides essential driving information like speed, battery level, and navigation right in front of your eyes. Stay connected to your car even when you're not behind the wheel with the Fiat Connect app, allowing you to check charging status remotely, schedule charging times, and even locate your car.
Connectivity
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, seamlessly integrating your smartphone for music, calls, and navigation through the familiar interface of your phone. The instrument cluster keeps essential information like speed, battery level, and navigation right before you. You can even stay connected to your car remotely with the Fiat Connect app, allowing you to check your charging status, schedule charging times, and locate your car – all from your smartphone.
Drive Assist Technology
Finding the perfect driving position is easy with the 6-way manual front seat adjustment and a height-adjustable steering wheel. Heated seats, a first for the Fiat 500, provide extra comfort on chilly mornings. Climate control keeps you at your desired temperature year-round, ensuring a pleasant journey.
Performance and engine
The Fiat 500e may not have the most horsepower, but its electric heart gives it plenty of peps. Although it's not built for drag races, most reviewers find that it provides an enjoyable and lively driving experience ideal for city commutes.
Engine specifications
The Fiat 500e La Prima variant combines stylish design with an efficient electric performance, offering a range of 311 kilometres on a single charge. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour is achieved in a respectable 9.0 seconds, making it agile enough for urban driving and capable on highways. With a maximum speed of 150 kilometres per hour, it ensures smooth cruising and confident handling on diverse road conditions.
| Variants | Range | Acceleration | Maximum speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat 500e La Prima | 311km | 0-100km/h in 9.0s | 150km/h |
Powertrain
The 500e boasts an electric motor with 117 hp of power and a healthy 220 Nm of torque. While not a speed demon, this translates to a zippy and enjoyable driving experience, perfect for navigating city streets and stop-and-go traffic. Don't expect to win drag races, but the 500e provides enough pep to put a smile on your face as you weave through the urban jungle.
Handling & Braking
The 500e's small size and low centre of gravity contribute to surprisingly good handling. Weighing in at a relatively light 1290 kg (2844 lbs), the car feels nimble and responsive, making it a confident companion for tight city corners and effortless parking manoeuvres. The car utilises regenerative braking to slow down the car and recapture energy while driving. This system might feel different at first compared to traditional brakes. Still, many reviewers find it becomes natural after a while and even allows for a one-pedal driving experience in certain situations.
The Fiat 500e is built for urban adventures. With a WLTP estimated driving range of 311 km, it excels at tackling city commutes and errands. However, its compact size and range might not be ideal for extended highway trips. Remember, this electric charmer is at its happiest zipping around town.
Fast charging option
If you need a quick recharge before going out, the Fiat 500e is perfect. It charges up to 80% in just 35 minutes with a fast charger. That means you can quickly top it off while you're busy or grabbing a coffee. Great for keeping you moving without waiting around too long!
Safety features
The Fiat 500e prioritises safety for your city drives. It comes standard with a full suite of airbags and stability control systems to keep you protected in an unexpected situation. The car's construction is designed to absorb impact energy, especially focusing on adult occupant safety. However, its small size means it's important to be aware of its limitations in certain collisions. To ensure maximum safety, some higher-end features like automatic emergency braking for pedestrians and cyclists might be optional depending on the trim level. It's always wise to research the specific features of the car you're interested in before making a decision.
Some of these safety features include:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking With Vulnerable Road Users
- Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Assist
- Driver Behaviour Warning
- Cruise Control
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering and
- Traffic Jam Assist
- 6 Air Bags
- Front, Side and Rear Parking Sensors
- Rear Back-up Camera
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Hitting the road in Australia in March 2023, the Fiat 500e has a 4-star ANCAP safety rating. This Australian New Car Assessment Program rating applies to all variants of the electric car. While the specifics of the assessment aren't available yet, a 4-star ANCAP rating indicates a good overall level of safety for you and your passengers.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 78%
- Child Occupant Protection: 79%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 67%
- Safety Assist: 67%
Ownership experience
Based on online forums, new Fiat 500e owners are raving about their electric city cars. One recent buyer found the car unexpectedly and is thoroughly impressed so far. They're encountering a learning curve common with new car ownership, but the overall experience has been positive. This sentiment is echoed in online communities where questions about long-term ownership and potential customisations are popping up. People are curious about installing charging stations (Level 1 or 2), adding aftermarket features like backup cameras or touchscreens, and gauging how the car holds up after months of ownership. The positive buzz surrounding the Fiat 500e highlights its affordability, charming design, and enjoyable electric driving experience.
Major strengths
- The peppy electric motor provides a lively driving experience perfect for city commutes.
- Small size and low centre of gravity contribute to confident handling in tight spaces.
- In some situations, a regenerative braking system allows for a more convenient driving experience.
- Ideal range and size for commuting around town and running errands.
- DC fast charging allows for quick top-ups when needed.
- Iconic design with a modern electric twist offers a touch of European charm.
Major drawbacks
- It is not ideal for long highway trips due to its battery range.
- Trunk space might be limiting for extensive cargo needs.
- Rear seats are better suited for occasional use or smaller passengers.
- The braking system might feel different from traditional brakes and requires some adjustment.
- Depending on the trim level, higher-end safety features like automatic emergency braking might be optional.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The Fiat 500e offers peace of mind with a comprehensive warranty package. The vehicle itself is covered for 3 years or 150,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Even more reassuring is the lengthy 8-year/160,000-kilometer warranty on the battery, a vital component in any electric car. Fiat keeps maintenance costs predictable with capped-price servicing for the first eight years. Each service visit is set at a reasonable $250, translating to a total cost of $1250 for servicing over the first five years. This makes budgeting for your Fiat 500e's upkeep straightforward.
Verdict
The Fiat 500e brings retro charm to the electric world. This zippy city car boasts a comfortable interior, a peppy electric motor, and a range of 311 km, perfect for conquering urban adventures. While its adorable design comes at a starting price of $52,500, predictable servicing costs and a lengthy warranty ease the burden. Ideal for city dwellers seeking a stylish and electric commute, the 500e might lack practicality for extensive cargo needs or long highway trips. However, for those prioritising charm and a touch of Italian flair, this electric cutie is sure to steal your heart.
The Fiat 500e is a modernised version of the iconic Fiat 500, now fully electric with zero emissions. It maintains the charming retro design that made the original model famous while offering the convenience of a touchscreen infotainment system and a lively electric motor for cruising around the city. Whether you prioritise style, sustainability, or a hint of nostalgia, the Fiat 500e will surely bring joy to your urban driving experience.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Efficient electric performance
- Quick charging capability (0-80% in 35 minutes)
- Ample front seat room
Cons:
- High starting price
- Limited rear seat space
The adorable Fiat 500 gets a shockingly expensive makeover with the 500e, a fully electric city car. It retains the undeniably cute, retro design that made the original famous, but with a hefty price tag to match its eco-friendly electric motor. At $52,500 starting, this electric Fiat is more than double the price of its gas-powered counterpart once the on-road costs are added. Are you intrigued by the sky-high price tag or the undeniable charm? The 500e offers a peppy electric ride, modern tech features, and even heated seats – a first for the Fiat 500. But is the nostalgia and Italian flair worth the price? Let's find out!
| Variants | Starting price | Fuel type | Fast Charge Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat 500e La Prima | $52,500* | Electric | 35 minutes |
Exteriors
The Fiat 500e retains the original's adorable, retro silhouette with modern LED lights and available two-tone paint jobs for a head-turning electric city car.
Styling elements
The Fiat 500e takes the iconic cuteness of the original 500 and injects it with a modern electric charm. It's a city car designed to turn heads, with its undeniably adorable, retro silhouette instantly recognisable. Imagine a bubbly jellybean on wheels; that's the 500e's vibe. The big, round headlights flank a smiling grille, while the short overhangs and rounded curves scream, "look at me!" Available in a range of colours that perfectly complement its playful personality, you can choose from sophisticated Tuxedo Black or Glacier White to a head-turning Rose Gold with matching mirror caps (on the La Prima trim). Every element, from the chrome accents to the available two-tone paint jobs, is designed to maximise the car's inherent cuteness factor.
Fiat hasn't forgotten the modern touches, though. The 500e's stylish LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication without sacrificing the car's overall charm. It's a delightful blend of retro nostalgia and modern design, perfect for those who want an eye-catching electric companion for city adventures.
Colour options
The Fiat 500e isn't shy when it comes to colour choices. It offers a delightful palette of 6 colours to match your individual style. The car comes standard in Ice White with no additional cost.
For $990, you have the freedom to make a statement with Mineral Grey, Ocean Green, the eye-catching Onyx Black, or the ever-charming Rose Gold.
For $1600, you can opt for a more striking colour like Celestial Blue.
Wheel design
The Fiat 500e ditches bulky EV wheels for sporty 17-inch alloys. Expect multi-spoke designs that complement the car's cute style, some with a two-tone option for added flair. These wheels prioritise looks and function, offering a smooth ride without sacrificing head-turning appeal.
Interiors
The Fiat 500e's interior might surprise you. While it's undeniably a compact car, clever design choices create a surprisingly spacious feel.
Interior layout and space
The Fiat 500e is especially spacious for the front passengers. It offers ample front headroom at 39.3 inches, generous front legroom measuring 41.8 inches, spacious front shoulder room of 51.1 inches, and comfortable front hip room of 49.8 inches. The big, upright windshield and relatively low side windows create an airy atmosphere. This makes the cabin feel less cramped, perfect for navigating city streets and quick commutes.
The rear seats, however, are better suited for occasional use or smaller passengers. Legroom can be tight for adults on longer journeys. Think of them as bonus seats for short trips with friends or as perfect for accommodating kids. The layout of the Fiat 500e prioritises functionality for city driving. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, focusing on easy access to essential controls. The driver's seat offers good adjustability, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated throughout the cabin, with cupholders, a glove compartment, and door pockets providing space for everyday essentials. While the cargo space might not be massive, it can easily handle groceries or weekend bags.
Comfort and ergonomics
The Fiat 500e strikes a good balance between comfort and a fun, city-focused driving experience. The seats are comfortable and supportive for everyday commutes, and heated seats (a first for the Fiat 500) are available for added warmth on chilly mornings. The driver's controls are all within easy reach, making for an intuitive driving experience. While some reviewers might find hard plastics throughout the cabin a slight downgrade in perceived quality, it keep the weight down and contributes to the car's overall peppy personality.
Boot
The Fiat 500e's boot space reflects its city car purpose. With 185 litres of cargo capacity, it won't swallow massive suitcases or furniture hauls from Ikea. However, that doesn't mean it's useless. Think of it as a cleverly designed space for everyday essentials. Groceries, weekend bags, or a stroller can comfortably fit, making it perfect for cruising around town and carrying your daily essentials.
Technology and infotainment
The Fiat 500e goes beyond just adorable looks and electric thrills. It has features designed to make your city's driving experience comfortable and convenient.
Infotainment system & Driver display
The centrepiece of the infotainment system is a user-friendly 10.25-inch touchscreen display. This system offers easy access to navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings, all designed to minimise distractions while driving. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for music, calls, and navigation.
Driver’s display
A 7-inch TFT instrument cluster display provides essential driving information like speed, battery level, and navigation right in front of your eyes. Stay connected to your car even when you're not behind the wheel with the Fiat Connect app, allowing you to check charging status remotely, schedule charging times, and even locate your car.
Connectivity
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, seamlessly integrating your smartphone for music, calls, and navigation through the familiar interface of your phone. The instrument cluster keeps essential information like speed, battery level, and navigation right before you. You can even stay connected to your car remotely with the Fiat Connect app, allowing you to check your charging status, schedule charging times, and locate your car – all from your smartphone.
Drive Assist Technology
Finding the perfect driving position is easy with the 6-way manual front seat adjustment and a height-adjustable steering wheel. Heated seats, a first for the Fiat 500, provide extra comfort on chilly mornings. Climate control keeps you at your desired temperature year-round, ensuring a pleasant journey.
Performance and engine
The Fiat 500e may not have the most horsepower, but its electric heart gives it plenty of peps. Although it's not built for drag races, most reviewers find that it provides an enjoyable and lively driving experience ideal for city commutes.
Engine specifications
The Fiat 500e La Prima variant combines stylish design with an efficient electric performance, offering a range of 311 kilometres on a single charge. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour is achieved in a respectable 9.0 seconds, making it agile enough for urban driving and capable on highways. With a maximum speed of 150 kilometres per hour, it ensures smooth cruising and confident handling on diverse road conditions.
| Variants | Range | Acceleration | Maximum speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat 500e La Prima | 311km | 0-100km/h in 9.0s | 150km/h |
Powertrain
The 500e boasts an electric motor with 117 hp of power and a healthy 220 Nm of torque. While not a speed demon, this translates to a zippy and enjoyable driving experience, perfect for navigating city streets and stop-and-go traffic. Don't expect to win drag races, but the 500e provides enough pep to put a smile on your face as you weave through the urban jungle.
Handling & Braking
The 500e's small size and low centre of gravity contribute to surprisingly good handling. Weighing in at a relatively light 1290 kg (2844 lbs), the car feels nimble and responsive, making it a confident companion for tight city corners and effortless parking manoeuvres. The car utilises regenerative braking to slow down the car and recapture energy while driving. This system might feel different at first compared to traditional brakes. Still, many reviewers find it becomes natural after a while and even allows for a one-pedal driving experience in certain situations.
The Fiat 500e is built for urban adventures. With a WLTP estimated driving range of 311 km, it excels at tackling city commutes and errands. However, its compact size and range might not be ideal for extended highway trips. Remember, this electric charmer is at its happiest zipping around town.
Fast charging option
If you need a quick recharge before going out, the Fiat 500e is perfect. It charges up to 80% in just 35 minutes with a fast charger. That means you can quickly top it off while you're busy or grabbing a coffee. Great for keeping you moving without waiting around too long!
Safety features
The Fiat 500e prioritises safety for your city drives. It comes standard with a full suite of airbags and stability control systems to keep you protected in an unexpected situation. The car's construction is designed to absorb impact energy, especially focusing on adult occupant safety. However, its small size means it's important to be aware of its limitations in certain collisions. To ensure maximum safety, some higher-end features like automatic emergency braking for pedestrians and cyclists might be optional depending on the trim level. It's always wise to research the specific features of the car you're interested in before making a decision.
Some of these safety features include:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking With Vulnerable Road Users
- Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Assist
- Driver Behaviour Warning
- Cruise Control
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering and
- Traffic Jam Assist
- 6 Air Bags
- Front, Side and Rear Parking Sensors
- Rear Back-up Camera
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Hitting the road in Australia in March 2023, the Fiat 500e has a 4-star ANCAP safety rating. This Australian New Car Assessment Program rating applies to all variants of the electric car. While the specifics of the assessment aren't available yet, a 4-star ANCAP rating indicates a good overall level of safety for you and your passengers.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 78%
- Child Occupant Protection: 79%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 67%
- Safety Assist: 67%
Ownership experience
Based on online forums, new Fiat 500e owners are raving about their electric city cars. One recent buyer found the car unexpectedly and is thoroughly impressed so far. They're encountering a learning curve common with new car ownership, but the overall experience has been positive. This sentiment is echoed in online communities where questions about long-term ownership and potential customisations are popping up. People are curious about installing charging stations (Level 1 or 2), adding aftermarket features like backup cameras or touchscreens, and gauging how the car holds up after months of ownership. The positive buzz surrounding the Fiat 500e highlights its affordability, charming design, and enjoyable electric driving experience.
Major strengths
- The peppy electric motor provides a lively driving experience perfect for city commutes.
- Small size and low centre of gravity contribute to confident handling in tight spaces.
- In some situations, a regenerative braking system allows for a more convenient driving experience.
- Ideal range and size for commuting around town and running errands.
- DC fast charging allows for quick top-ups when needed.
- Iconic design with a modern electric twist offers a touch of European charm.
Major drawbacks
- It is not ideal for long highway trips due to its battery range.
- Trunk space might be limiting for extensive cargo needs.
- Rear seats are better suited for occasional use or smaller passengers.
- The braking system might feel different from traditional brakes and requires some adjustment.
- Depending on the trim level, higher-end safety features like automatic emergency braking might be optional.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The Fiat 500e offers peace of mind with a comprehensive warranty package. The vehicle itself is covered for 3 years or 150,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Even more reassuring is the lengthy 8-year/160,000-kilometer warranty on the battery, a vital component in any electric car. Fiat keeps maintenance costs predictable with capped-price servicing for the first eight years. Each service visit is set at a reasonable $250, translating to a total cost of $1250 for servicing over the first five years. This makes budgeting for your Fiat 500e's upkeep straightforward.
Verdict
The Fiat 500e brings retro charm to the electric world. This zippy city car boasts a comfortable interior, a peppy electric motor, and a range of 311 km, perfect for conquering urban adventures. While its adorable design comes at a starting price of $52,500, predictable servicing costs and a lengthy warranty ease the burden. Ideal for city dwellers seeking a stylish and electric commute, the 500e might lack practicality for extensive cargo needs or long highway trips. However, for those prioritising charm and a touch of Italian flair, this electric cutie is sure to steal your heart.
